St Thomas Tour in Chennai

The St. Thomas Tour in Chennai offers visitors a chance to explore the rich religious history of this vibrant city. Exploring the significance of St. Thomas’s ministry in India during the 1st century, the tour takes travelers to iconic landmarks like the San Thome Basilica and the Little Mount Shrine. With knowledgeable guides, travelers can uncover the captivating stories behind these sacred sites and gain a deeper understanding of the lasting impact of St. Thomas’s work. Whether you’re a believer or a history enthusiast, this tour promises an enriching experience that will leave you eager to discover more about this intriguing chapter of India’s past.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive full-day tour exploring Chennai’s key sites associated with St. Thomas, including Little Mount, St. Thomas Mount, and San Thome Basilica.
• Knowledgeable guides provide commentary on St. Thomas’s 1st-century presence and impact in India, highlighting his significant role in spreading Christianity.
• Tour includes entrance fees, lunch, and hotel pickups/drop-offs, offering a seamless and immersive experience for visitors.
• Opportunity to visit sacred spaces like Little Mount Shrine, where St. Thomas is believed to have done penance, and the San Thome Basilica housing his relics.
• Suitable for both believers and history enthusiasts, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on traveler reviews praising the guides and the tour’s accessibility.

Overview of the St. Thomas Tour

The St. Thomas Tour in Chennai offers a full-day exploration of the city through the lens of the apostle’s history.

Visitors will venture to significant religious landmarks, including Little Mount, St. Thomas Mount, and the St. Thome Basilica. A knowledgeable guide will provide commentary on St. Thomas’s influential presence in India during the 1st century AD.

The tour includes entrance fees, lunch, and convenient hotel pickups and drop-offs. Guests must adhere to a modest dress code when visiting places of worship.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is easily reached by public transportation. Operated by 5 Senses Walks, the private tour starts at $106.67 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the San Thome Basilica

Situated within the heart of Chennai, the San Thome Basilica stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Thomas the Apostle. Established in the 10th century, the basilica is the principal church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madras and Mylapore.

Housing a small bone of St. Thomas and the head of the lance that pierced him, the neo-Gothic structure was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Visitors can admire the ancient painting of the Blessed Mother and learn about the basilica’s rich history as a site of Christian pilgrimage.

The San Thome Basilica offers a profound connection to the apostle’s impact on India during the 1st century AD.

The Significance of Little Mount Shrine

Adjacent to the bustling streets of Chennai, the Little Mount Shrine holds immense significance for Christian pilgrims.

This cave is believed to be the site where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus, hid and did penance in the year AD 68. The shrine contains a palm print and handprint that are said to be St. Thomas’s, as well as a masonry cross and a perennial spring attributed to the apostle.

Visitors can explore this sacred space, seeing the history and spiritual legacy of St. Thomas’s presence in India during the 1st century AD.

St. Thomas’s Influence in India

The life and ministry of St. Thomas in India (AD 52 – AD 72) profoundly influenced the spread of Christianity in the region.

According to tradition, the apostle arrived in the south Indian port of Muziris and established the first Christian church in India.

He’s believed to have converted numerous locals, including high-ranking officials, and appointed bishops to oversee the growing community of believers.

St. Thomas’s preaching and miracles, culminating in his martyrdom near Chennai, laid the foundation for the enduring Christian presence in India.

His tomb and the sacred sites associated with his life continue to attract pilgrims and shape the religious landscape of the region to this day.

Tour Logistics and Requirements

The St. Thomas tour in Chennai offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical and religious sites associated with the apostle’s influence in India. The tour logistics are designed for convenience and accessibility. Pickup is available from all hotels in Chennai, with a start time of 8:00 AM. Dress code requirements for places of worship include covering knees and shoulders, as well as avoiding shorts and sleeveless tops.

Tour Requirements
Accessibility	Not wheelchair accessible	Near public transportation
Group Size	Private tour	Only your group participates
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour

The tour is operated by 5 Senses Walks, with prices starting from $106.67 per person, varying by group size. This exclusive experience provides a unique opportunity to explore the rich Christian heritage of Chennai.

Accessibility and Transportation Options

Located near public transportation options, the St. Thomas Tour in Chennai isn’t wheelchair accessible.

However, this shouldn’t deter visitors, as the tour provides convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services. Whether you’re staying in the city center or the outskirts, the tour operator will ensure a seamless start to your day exploring the historical sites associated with St. Thomas.

With a private tour format, you and your group will have the freedom to immerse yourselves in the fascinating religious heritage without the constraints of a larger group.

Private Tour Experience

Participating in the St. Thomas tour in Chennai is a private and personalized experience. The tour is designed for your group only, allowing for a more intimate and engaging exploration of the historical and religious sites associated with the apostle.

With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll explore the rich tapestry of St. Thomas’s influence in India, visiting landmarks like the Little Mount Shrine and the San Thome Basilica.

The tour’s flexibility ensures you can tailor the experience to your interests, making the most of your time in the city.

Whether you’re a believer or simply fascinated by history, this private tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the legacy of St. Thomas.

Tour Ratings and Recommendations

Travelers’ reviews of the St. Thomas Tour in Chennai suggest it’s a highly rewarding experience.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars, visitors praise the knowledgeable guides who provide unique insights into the history and significance of the sites. The tour is recommended for both believers and those interested in the rich Christian heritage of India.

The highlights include seeing the Little Mount Shrine, where St. Thomas is believed to have meditated, and the impressive St. Thome Basilica, which houses relics of the apostle.

Despite not being wheelchair accessible, the tour’s convenient hotel pickup and drop-off make it an accessible option for many.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?

The tour involves a moderate amount of walking, with visits to significant religious landmarks like the San Thome Basilica and Little Mount Shrine. Participants should be prepared for some light walking during the day-long exploration of the history and sites.

What Languages Do the Tour Guides Speak?

The tour guides speak both English and the local language, enabling them to provide comprehensive commentary and respond to guests’ questions during the tour. This ensures a seamless and informative experience for all participants.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests?

The tour operator offers customization options for special requests. Guests can work with the team to adapt the itinerary, timing, or other aspects to suit their preferences and needs.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed at the Sites?

Photography and video recording are generally allowed at the religious sites visited during the tour, though visitors should be respectful and discreet. Participants are advised to check with the tour guide for any specific restrictions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for additional duration. The tour operator offers flexible options to customize the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests and schedule, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the sites.

Sum Up

The St. Thomas Tour in Chennai offers an enriching exploration of the city’s significant religious landmarks associated with the apostle. Visitors can explore the fascinating history and cultural significance of sites like the San Thome Basilica and Little Mount Shrine, while learning about St. Thomas’s impactful ministry in India. With knowledgeable guides and comprehensive logistics, the tour provides an engaging experience for believers and history enthusiasts alike.