St. Thomas Mount is a small hillock located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is believed to be the place where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, was martyred in 72 AD. The hillock has a church called the St. Thomas Mount Church, which was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese. The church is a famous pilgrimage site for Christians and attracts thousands of devotees every year.
Apart from the church, St. Thomas Mount also has a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Expectation, a viewpoint offering a panoramic view of Chennai city, and a museum displaying artifacts related to the history of the church and the martyrdom of St. Thomas. The hillock is also known for its natural beauty, with lush greenery and peaceful surroundings providing a calm respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Timing in st thomas mount
The St. Thomas Mount Church in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, is generally open every day of the week from morning to evening, although specific timing may vary.
The church is open for visitors from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and from 5:30 am to 9:00 pm on Sundays and feast days.
However, it is advisable to confirm the opening and closing timings of the church and other attractions at St. Thomas Mount before planning a visit, as these timings may be subject to change.
Entry fees in st thomas mount
There is usually no entry fee for visiting the St. Thomas Mount Church in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. However, there may be a nominal fee for visiting the museum located on the hill.
If you wish to take photographs or videos inside the church or the museum, there may be an additional fee for the camera.
It is advisable to check with the authorities or the information desk at the church for any specific fees or charges that may be applicable during your visit.
History of st thomas mount
St. Thomas Mount has a rich and fascinating history, steeped in religious significance. It is believed to be the place where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, was martyred in 72 AD. St. Thomas had traveled to India to spread the teachings of Christ and is said to have preached in the region for several years before he was killed.
According to legend, St. Thomas was killed by the sword of an assassin sent by a local king, who was angered by the apostle’s preaching. St. Thomas was then buried on the hill, which came to be known as St. Thomas Mount.
In the 16th century, the Portuguese built a church on the hill, dedicated to St. Thomas. The church, which is now known as the St. Thomas Mount Church, has undergone several renovations and additions over the years, but it still retains its old-world charm and historical significance.
Today, St. Thomas Mount is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians and attracts thousands of visitors every year. The hill also offers stunning views of Chennai city and the surrounding area, making it a popular tourist destination as well.
How to reach st thomas mount
St. Thomas Mount is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, and can be easily reached through various modes of transportation.
By Air: The nearest airport to St. Thomas Mount is the Chennai International Airport, which is about 5 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach St. Thomas Mount.
By Train: The St. Thomas Mount Railway Station is located on the Chennai Beach-Tambaram suburban railway line and is well-connected to various parts of the city. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the hill.
By Bus: St. Thomas Mount is well connected to other parts of the city through the Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses. You can take a bus from any part of the city to reach St. Thomas Mount.
By Car: You can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach St. Thomas Mount. The hill is located on National Highway 45 and is easily accessible by road.
Once you reach St. Thomas Mount, you can climb up the hill to reach the church and other attractions or take the staircase or elevator available for visitors.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit St. Thomas Mount in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, is between November and February when the weather is relatively cooler and pleasant. The temperature during this time ranges between 20°C to 28°C, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Avoid visiting during the summer months of April to June when the temperatures can soar up to 40°C or more, making it uncomfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The monsoon season, which starts in June and lasts till September, can also be a good time to visit if you enjoy the rain and the lush greenery that surrounds St. Thomas Mount during this time. However, do keep in mind that heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to disruptions in travel plans and may affect access to certain attractions on the hill.
Overall, the best time to visit St. Thomas Mount would be between November and February when the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is low, making it a great time to explore this historical and religious landmark.
Neared place in st thomas mount
St. Thomas Mount is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, and there are several other interesting places to visit near the hill. Some of the nearest places to St. Thomas Mount are:
Little Mount: Little Mount is a small hillock located about 3 km away from St. Thomas Mount. It is believed to be the place where St. Thomas sought refuge during his time in Chennai.
Guindy National Park: Guindy National Park is located about 8 km away from St. Thomas Mount and is one of the smallest national parks in India. It is home to several species of flora and fauna and is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Marina Beach: Marina Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Chennai and is located about 12 km away from St. Thomas Mount. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the sea breeze.
Kapaleeswarar Temple: Kapaleeswarar Temple is a famous Hindu temple located about 10 km away from St. Thomas Mount. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in Chennai.
Fort St. George: Fort St. George is a historical monument located about 15 km away from St. Thomas Mount. It was built by the British East India Company in the 17th century and is now home to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly.
These are just a few of the many interesting places to visit near St. Thomas Mount.
Stay option
St. Thomas Mount in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, is a popular tourist and pilgrimage destination, and there are several stay options available for visitors. Some of the popular stay options near St. Thomas Mount are:
Hotel Mount Heera: Hotel Mount Heera is a budget-friendly hotel located near St. Thomas Mount. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities like Wi-Fi, room service, and laundry service.
Lemon Tree Hotel Chennai: Lemon Tree Hotel Chennai is a mid-range hotel located about 3 km away from St. Thomas Mount. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and other amenities.
The Leela Palace Chennai: The Leela Palace Chennai is a luxury hotel located about 10 km away from St. Thomas Mount. The hotel offers luxurious rooms, multiple restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, and other amenities.
ITC Grand Chola: ITC Grand Chola is a luxury hotel located about 12 km away from St. Thomas Mount. The hotel offers spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, a spa, a fitness center, and other amenities.
The Raintree Hotel, St. Mary’s Road: The Raintree Hotel is a mid-range hotel located about 10 km away from St. Thomas Mount. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and other amenities.
These are just a few of the many stay options available near St. Thomas Mount. You can choose a stay option based on your budget and preferences.
Faq in st thomas mount
What is the significance of St. Thomas Mount?
St. Thomas Mount is a historical and religious site located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is believed to be the place where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, lived and preached during his time in India.
Is there an entry fee to visit St. Thomas Mount?
No, there is no entry fee to visit St. Thomas Mount.
What is the best time to visit St. Thomas Mount?
The best time to visit St. Thomas Mount is between November and February when the weather is pleasant and cool.
How do I reach St. Thomas Mount?
St. Thomas Mount is easily accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, and the nearest railway station is Chennai Central Railway Station.