Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours

Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours (popularly known as Puthanpally or New Church), soaring majestically into the Thrissur skyline in Pallikkulam just 500 meters south of Swaraj Round in Thrissur in Kerala, stands as the largest Catholic church in India and the third tallest church across the entire Asian continent.

Constructed in opulent soaring Gothic Revival architecture over an expansive 25,000 square-foot built up plinth, the foundation stone was laid in 1929 with royal blessings from Maharaja Rama Varma of Cochin, later elevated to the prestigious status of Minor Basilica in 1992 by Pope John Paul II.

It's the home of twin 146 foot soaring front Gothic belfries and a monumental 260 foot rear Bible Tower (the tallest church steeple in Asia), 11 consecrated side altars decorated with Italian marble and gilded wooden retablos, life sized mural frescoes depicting the Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Stations of the Cross, luminous multi colored stained glass rose windows, and an elevator accessible observation deck at the top of the Bible Tower offering panoramic 360 degree views of Thrissur city.

It represents a rich architectural and spiritual sanctuary where soaring European Gothic design, ancient Syro Malabar Christian heritage, striking city skyline views, and peaceful devotional prayer unite in central Kerala.

Located in Pallikkulam along High Road, it sits just 1 km north of Thrissur Railway Station (TCR) and KSRTC Central Bus Stand, and 53 km from Cochin International Airport (COK), easily accessible by foot, auto rickshaw, or city bus.

The 1929 Gothic Masterpiece & Asia's Largest Nave

Designed by renowned architect J.M. Ambrose, the cathedral features towering pointed arches, ribbed vaulted ceilings, flying buttresses, and intricate plaster mouldings.

The expansive two story interior nave can comfortably accommodate over 6,000 worshippers, illuminated naturally through stained glass windows imported from Europe depicting biblical scenes.

Truth is, stepping inside the grand marble sanctuary surrounded by soaring 50 foot vaulted ceilings provides an instant sense of sacred peace and monumental architectural awe.

The 260 Foot Bible Tower & Sky Observation Deck

Asia's Tallest Church Tower: Inaugurated in 2004, the 260 foot (79 meter) Bible Tower behind the basilica is the tallest religious tower in India, fitted with modern high speed passenger elevators.

Biblical Art Gallery & Viewpoint: As the elevator ascends through the tower's floors, visitors tour wood carvings of the life of Christ, stained glass murals, and step onto the open terrace for 360 degree views across Thrissur to the Western Ghats.

The 11 Marble Altars & Annual Feast of Dolours

Sacred Marble Altars: The main altar is carved from pure Italian Carrara marble, flanked by 10 exquisite side altars dedicated to Saint Joseph, Saint Sebastian, and Saint Antony.

Perunnal Feast of Our Lady of Dolours: Celebrated annually on the last Sunday of November, the grand festival features colorful street processions, orchestral brass bands, illuminated night pageants, and traditional fireworks.

After visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Dolours, walk to the ancient Vadakkunnathan Shiva Temple at Swaraj Round, explore the Shakthan Thampuran Palace museum, or visit the bustling Thrissur Town Market.