Good Friday Special | In the heart of South Mumbai’s bustling Fort area, tucked between colonial-era buildings and modern business towers, stands a piece of Mumbai’s soul—St. Thomas Cathedral. As the oldest church in the city, this 17th-century Anglican structure is more than just a place of worship. It’s a beacon of architectural grace and a quiet reminder of the city's colonial past.
St. Thomas Cathedral traces its roots back to 1676 when construction began under the British East India Company. It wasn’t until Christmas Day in 1718 that the church was finally consecrated, making it the first Anglican church in Mumbai. Named after St. Thomas the Apostle—believed to be the first Christian to set foot in India—the cathedral was built to serve the growing number of British settlers and officials.
Walk through its grand white façade and enter a different era. The Gothic Revival architecture, with its vaulted ceilings, arched stained-glass windows, and muted stone interiors, speaks of a time when craftsmanship was sacred and silence was golden. Despite its age, the church is well maintained, offering historical intrigue and spiritual calm.
The cathedral’s architecture is quintessentially English with Indian nuances. Inside, sunlight filters through tall stained-glass windows, casting a golden glow on the checkerboard marble floor. The high wooden rafters, colonial memorials, and intricately carved pulpit evoke a quiet reverence. Along the walls, you will find tablets and plaques dedicated to British officers, traders, and sailors—snapshots of lives once intertwined with the city’s colonial history.
One of the highlights is the ornately carved Baptismal Font, dating back to the early 18th century, and the antique pipe organ, which still plays during services. Once an essential city landmark, the church's clock tower was also the marker for “Point Zero,” from where all distances in Mumbai were measured.
St. Thomas Cathedral offers a peaceful retreat despite being just steps away from the chaos of Horniman Circle and CST Station. During weekday afternoons, the church is often near-empty, making it the perfect place for quiet reflection, photography, or even just a few minutes away from the clamor of Mumbai’s streets. On Sundays, the cathedral comes alive with hymns and a devout congregation, echoing centuries-old traditions.
In 2004, St. Thomas Cathedral was awarded the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation. The church has since become an integral stop on heritage walks through Fort, drawing history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and curious travellers alike.
Getting There: Travelling by local trains is the ideal way to immerse in the culture of the city, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus is the closest railway station (roughly 1.5 km away).
Nearby Attractions: Its location also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring colonial-era Mumbai. From here, you can stroll to the Asiatic Society Library, Horniman Circle Gardens, and the Kala Ghoda Arts District—all within a 10-minute walk. The Flora Fountain, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, Jehangir Art Gallery are also nearby. Should you have more time, head further towards the iconic Gateway of India.
When to visit: St. Thomas Cathedral is open to visitors daily, with services held regularly. Entry is free.
Address: 3, Veer Nariman Rd, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023
