St. Thomas Mount: A Spiritual Retreat in Chennai
Experience the spiritual serenity and historical charm of St. Thomas Mount, a breathtaking hilltop pilgrimage site in Chennai, India.
A brief summary to St Thomas Mount Chennai India
- ST. THOMAS MOUNT, Chennai, St.Thomas Mount, Ramapuram, Thiru Vi Ka Industrial Estate, SIDCO Industrial Estate, Guindy, Tamil Nadu, 600016, IN
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
St. Thomas Mount, located in Chennai, India, is a significant historical and spiritual site dedicated to St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have preached in India. The mount itself is a hill that offers panoramic views of the bustling city and the serene waters of the Bay of Bengal. Visitors can explore the charming church that sits on the summit, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate architecture that reflects its colonial past. The serene atmosphere invites both the faithful and the curious to pause and reflect amidst the hustle of city life. Apart from its religious significance, St. Thomas Mount has a unique blend of history and nature. The area is rich with greenery, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely hike. The path to the top is lined with old trees and flowers, providing a serene environment for those looking to escape the noise of the city. The mount also features several markers and plaques that detail the life and legacy of St. Thomas, offering insight into the region's Christian heritage. For tourists, this site not only serves as a pilgrimage but also as an opportunity to appreciate the cultural diversity of Chennai, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city. Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip during the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the cooler temperatures and stunning sunrise or sunset views. Additionally, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the ascent can be steep in parts. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace or simply a beautiful place to enjoy nature, St. Thomas Mount is a hidden gem that promises a memorable experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and stunning views.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path can be steep.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
- Take time to read the plaques detailing St. Thomas's life for a deeper understanding.
- Respect the local customs, especially if attending services or prayers.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards Chennai city center. From there, take the GST Road (NH 45) towards St. Thomas Mount. As you approach the Guindy area, look for signs directing you to St. Thomas Mount. The landmark is located at ST. THOMAS MOUNT, Ramapuram, Thiru Vi Ka Industrial Estate, SIDCO Industrial Estate, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600016. Parking is available nearby, but ensure to check for any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation (Bus)
To reach St. Thomas Mount by bus, locate a bus stop serving routes towards Guindy. Board buses that go to 'St. Thomas Mount' or 'Guindy'. The fare is typically around ₹10-₹30, depending on your starting location. Once you arrive at the St. Thomas Mount stop, you can walk to the church which is a short distance away.
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Public Transportation (Train)
You can also reach St. Thomas Mount via train by taking a suburban train to the Guindy station. Once you arrive at Guindy, exit the station and take an auto-rickshaw to St. Thomas Mount, which is approximately 3 kilometers away. The auto fare will be around ₹50-₹100. Alternatively, you can walk, which will take about 30 minutes.
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Rickshaw
If you prefer a more direct route, you can hire an auto-rickshaw from any nearby location in Chennai to St. Thomas Mount. The fare will depend on the distance but expect to pay between ₹100-₹300. Ensure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Attractions Nearby to St Thomas Mount Chennai India
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St. Thomas Mount
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ST. THOMAS MOUNT CHURCH
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St.Thomas Mount National Shrine
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St Thomas Mount XII point
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St Mary's Shrine
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Chapel of Holy CROSS - Little Mount Shrine
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Porur Corporation Park
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Little mount
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SHRINE OF OUR LADY OF HEALTH & ST. THOMAS THE APOSTLE
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St.Thomas little mount church
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Hidden Lake
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Guindy National Park
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Chennai Snake Park
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T nagar Market
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Corporation Park Porur
Landmarks nearby to St Thomas Mount Chennai India
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Dheeran Chinnamalai Gounder Statue
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Ashok Pillar
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Siva Vishnu Temple
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Indira Nagar wall paints
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Kannadasan Statue
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Backyard
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Shri Periya Palayathamman Temple, Sri Anjaneyar Temple
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Fika
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Kamarajar Memorial House
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Varam Tharum Vinayagar Aalayam
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Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
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Arulmigu Marundeeswarar Temple
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Valluvar Kottam Monument
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Adyar Eco-Park
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Adyar Banyan Tree