Basilica of Bom Jesus,Goa

Local tradition holds that the body of St. Francis Xavier was miraculously preserved after his death in 1552; his remains were brought to Goa in 1553 and are now kept in a silver reliquary. Numerous legends and accounts of healings and miracles have been associated with the saint and his relics. The decennial public exposition of the saint's relics draws large pilgrim crowds and significant media attention.

• The main altar and retable with gilded Baroque decoration
• Tomb and silver reliquary of St. Francis Xavier (the silver casket)
• Museum and sacristy showcasing church vestments, relics and artifacts
• Interior wooden carvings and frescoes
• The adjacent Old Goa precinct with other historic churches (e.g., Se Cathedral, Church of St. Cajetan)

• Distinctive Baroque façade and classical Jesuit church layout
• Gilded high altar (retable) with intricate gold leaf work
• Silver and gilded reliquaries and chests
• Well-preserved colonial-era artifacts in the museum
• The basilica's role as part of the UNESCO-listed group of monuments

• Viewing the reliquary and tomb of St. Francis Xavier (subject to viewing schedules and special expositions)
• Attending mass and religious services (check times posted at the basilica)
• Taking a guided tour or using an audio guide to learn about the history and architecture
• Exploring the museum and sacristy to see vestments, liturgical objects and paintings
• Walking the surrounding Old Goa heritage area and visiting neighbouring churches

• Feast of St. Francis Xavier (3 December) — major annual celebration with pilgrim visits and special masses
• Exposition of the relics — historically held on special occasions/decennial events (check current schedules)
• Local liturgical celebrations and processions on major Christian feast days

November to February — cooler, dry weather and more pleasant for sightseeing; avoid the monsoon (June–September). December sees peak pilgrim attendance for the feast day.

Tropical monsoon climate: hot and humid for much of the year, heavy rains during the monsoon (June–September), milder and drier November–February.

There is typically no general entry fee to enter the basilica, though access to certain museum areas or special exhibitions may carry a small charge. Opening hours vary; commonly the church is open daily for visitors and worship (approx. morning to early evening). Check locally or on official sources for current opening times, mass schedules and any fees.

Located in Old Goa (Velha Goa), accessible by road from Panaji (~10–12 km) and from Goa's Dabolim Airport (~30–45 km by road depending on route). Regular taxis, pre-paid cabs, local buses and tourist vehicles serve the site. Nearest major railheads (Vasco or Madgaon) require a road transfer. Note: parts of the historic precinct include steps and uneven surfaces; wheelchair access may be limited in some areas—contact local authorities for assistance.

Plan about 1–2 hours for the basilica, museum and a short walk of the Old Goa precinct; allow more time during festivals or for guided tours.

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for a working church. Comfortable shoes for cobbled and uneven surfaces, sun protection (hat/sunscreen) and an umbrella during monsoon season. Carry some cash for donations, small purchases or museum fees.

Try local Goan specialties when in the area (e.g., vindaloo, xacuti, bebinca, seafood) in nearby restaurants. Souvenirs include religious medals, rosaries, postcards, carved wood items, cashew products and feni (local spirit).