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Se Cathedral
One of Asia's largest churches, home to the Golden Bell
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Old Goa (Basilica of Bom Jesus)
heritage site · Goa
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- State
- Goa
- Type
- Heritage Site
- Best season
- Winter
Old Goa, or Velha Goa, stands on the bank of the Mandovi a short drive from Panaji — the former capital of the Portuguese Eastern Empire, and still a dense cluster of colonial churches several centuries old. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is at the centre of it. The Basilica is baroque, and unusual for it: the facade is dark laterite, left un-plastered rather than finished. Inside are gilded altars and a marble and bronze mausoleum. Straight across the square is the Se Cathedral, one of the largest churches in Asia, built in the Portuguese-Manueline manner.
When to go
October to March, with the grand Feast of Saint Francis Xavier in December.
Why visit
Bom Jesus holds the body of St Francis Xavier, brought back from China and still kept in a silver casket. Its exterior is bare laterite because the lime plaster was stripped off last century and never replaced — the other churches here show you what it should look like.
Cultural notes
UNESCO inscribed the enclave in 1986, and it marks a turning point in the spread of Christian art across Asia. The Basilica holds the mortal remains of Saint Francis Xavier, said to have escaped decay, and pilgrims come from around the world in their millions for the solemn expositions held once every ten years.
How to reach
Located 10 km east of the state capital, Panaji. State highways run to the site, and it is easily reached by local bus, tourist taxi or rented scooter. The nearest major railway hub is Karmali station, just 3 km away.
Old Goa (Basilica of Bom Jesus) in 2 days
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Old Goa (Basilica of Bom Jesus) guide & itineraries
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What & where to eat
Nearby getaways
Panjim
~15 min
North Goa beaches
~40 min
Ponda temples
~30 min
Things to do
How to spend your time in Old Goa (Basilica of Bom Jesus).
Church of St. Cajetan
Baroque church modelled on St. Peter's, Rome
Frequently asked questions
What is Old Goa famous for?
Its UNESCO-listed churches, above all the Basilica of Bom Jesus with the relics of St. Francis Xavier.
How far is Old Goa from Panjim?
About 10 km, roughly 15-20 minutes.
More to explore in Goa
Other places worth pairing with this visit — tap a mood to reshape the list.
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