St. Xavier's Church
1 / 10

St. Xavier's Church

4.7
·205 reviews·Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka

A heritage site in Nuwara Eliya, St. Xavier's Church boasts brilliant 1870s architecture and a relic of St. Francis Xavier, offering a serene spiritua...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday evenings

English mass available

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
St. Xavier's Church

St. Xavier's Church

Best Time

Saturday evenings

English mass available

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A heritage site in Nuwara Eliya, St. Xavier's Church boasts brilliant 1870s architecture and a relic of St. Francis Xavier, offering a serene spiritual experience.

4.7
(205 reviews)

"The atmosphere of the church is so serene that it fills my heart with joy and draws me closer to God every time I visit. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Attend English Mass

Catch the Saturday evening English mass for a more accessible spiritual experience.

👗 Dress Modestly

Women should veil heads; men wear suits to show reverence.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Nuwara Eliya Town

A heritage site built in the 1870s, showcasing brilliant architecture and vintage charm that invites a spiritual experience.

Relic of St. Francis Xavier

Relic of St. Francis Xavier

Nuwara Eliya

This church houses a relic of St. Francis Xavier, a significant draw for pilgrims and devotees, especially during September celebrations.

Peaceful Mass Experience

Peaceful Mass Experience

Nuwara Eliya

Experience calm, clear, and meaningful masses with detailed, wise sermons that bring the Word of God to life.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To experience the full spiritual ambiance of St. Xavier's Church, consider attending an English mass, typically held on Saturday evenings. Weekday masses are often in Sinhalese. Dress modestly, with women veiling their heads, to show reverence. Reddit

Respectful Attire and Etiquette

Visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for a place of worship. Women are noted to veil their heads, and men should wear suits. This shows respect for the sacred space and the traditions observed during services. Reddit

Best Times

When
Saturday evenings
Why
English mass available
Crowd
Medium
When
September
Why
St. Francis Xavier celebrations
Crowd
High
When
Morning to Evening
Why
Always open
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The New St Francis Xavier Cathedral - Diocese de Cathedral
@simply.dhoodz
17.5K likes • 509.3K views

🎯 Attend English Mass

Catch the Saturday evening English mass for a more accessible spiritual experience. Reddit

👗 Dress Modestly

Women should veil heads; men wear suits to show reverence. Reddit

Before Al Roker was forecasting the weather on the @TODAY Show, he was a student at Xavier High School — one of the best Catholic high schools in all of New York! Its namesake church of St. Francis Xavier is right next door on 16th Street, and it’s a Jesuit beauty where Ignatian spirituality is lived out daily Song selection: “Seek Ye First”
@adam.llorens
832 likes • 9K views
St. Francis Xaviers Church konamkadu . . . #kanyakumari #konamkadu #streetphotography #eventplanner #goat #vijay #sneha #love #trending #tamilnadu #naturephotography #nature
kumaricatering.management
190 likes • 5.9K views

♿ Wheelchair Accessible

The church is conveniently located and accessible for all visitors. Reddit

🕊️ Find Inner Peace

Enjoy the serene atmosphere that fills hearts with joy and draws visitors closer to God. Reddit

St. Francis Xavier's Church - Basilica of Bom Jesus - Goa #goa #xavierschurch #xavier # kottar #nagercoil🌴 #kanyakumari #kanyakumari_tourism #kerala #ramanathichenputhur_officials #ramanathichenputhur #rajavoor #rajavoorsaintmichaelchurch #reelsinstagram #reels #velankannichurch⛪ #viralvideos #viral #travelphotography #trending
_kavin_unluckyboy_
55.6K likes • 419.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Attend English Mass

Catch the Saturday evening English mass for a more accessible spiritual experience. Reddit

👗 Dress Modestly

Women should veil heads; men wear suits to show reverence. Reddit

♿ Wheelchair Accessible

The church is conveniently located and accessible for all visitors. Reddit

🕊️ Find Inner Peace

Enjoy the serene atmosphere that fills hearts with joy and draws visitors closer to God. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(205 reviews)

Reviews Summary

St. Xavier's Church is lauded as a peaceful and holy place with brilliant architecture and a serene atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the meaningful masses and insightful sermons, finding it a spiritual sanctuary. Its central location and wheelchair accessibility are also noted positives. Reddit

"Visited the Church that is a heritage site and houses a relic of St Francis Xavier that they celebrate in the month of September.
Built in the 1870's, it exhibits brilliant architecture and vintage charm that draws you in a spiritual experience with Christ.

We were lucky to visit Saturday evening at 5pm for an English mass which on other days is mostly in Sinhalese.

Women faithful are noted to veil their heads in reverence and men are to be suited appropriately."

Chris Paul

"St. Francis Xavier Church in Nuwara Eliya is a truly peaceful and holy place. I deeply appreciate the way the priest conducts the Mass — calm, clear, and meaningful. His sermons are detailed, easy to understand, and full of wisdom, making the Word of God come alive. The atmosphere of the church is so serene that it fills my heart with joy and draws me closer to God every time I visit."

Diresh Herath

"Beautiful church in Nuwara eliya. Feel at peace"

John Patel

What People Like

Peaceful and holy atmosphere
Brilliant architecture
Meaningful masses and sermons

What People Dislike

Weekday masses in Sinhalese

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Xavier's Church is centrally located in Nuwara Eliya town, making it easily accessible by local transport or a short walk from most accommodations. Reddit

Yes, its central location within Nuwara Eliya town ensures it's easy to locate. Reddit

While specific parking details aren't widely mentioned, its central location suggests nearby public parking options might be available. It's best to inquire locally upon arrival.

Given its central location, it's highly likely that local buses and taxis can take you very close to the church. Reddit

Yes, the church is noted to be wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit for all. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no entrance fee for visiting St. Xavier's Church, as it is a place of worship. Donations are usually welcome. Reddit

The church is generally open from morning to evening, allowing visitors to experience its serene atmosphere throughout the day. Reddit

For an English mass, Saturday evenings are recommended. Otherwise, visiting during quieter hours in the morning or late afternoon offers a peaceful experience. Reddit

No, tickets are not required. You can visit St. Xavier's Church freely during its opening hours. Reddit

Masses are held regularly, with English masses often on Saturday evenings. Weekday masses are typically in Sinhalese. Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

Modest attire is expected. Women are advised to veil their heads, and men should wear suits to show respect. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as peaceful, holy, and serene, filling visitors with joy and drawing them closer to God. Reddit

While photos are generally allowed, it's respectful to refrain from taking pictures during mass or services. Always be mindful of others' spiritual experience.

Yes, St. Xavier's Church is recognized as a heritage site, noted for its brilliant architecture and vintage charm. Reddit

The priest's sermons are detailed, easy to understand, and full of wisdom, making the Word of God come alive. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The church's brilliant architecture and vintage charm offer many picturesque angles. The facade and interior details are particularly striking. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in religious sites and populated areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before attempting any drone photography.

Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the architectural beauty and create a serene mood for photography. Golden hour light is often ideal.

While general photography might be permitted, it's crucial to be respectful and avoid taking photos during mass or services. Reddit

A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens (e.g., a wide-angle to a moderate telephoto) would be ideal for capturing both the grand architecture and intricate details.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Xavier's Church offers a peaceful environment that can be a calming experience for families. While the focus is on reverence, the church's historical architecture might also capture the imagination of older children. Reddit

Consider attending the Saturday evening English mass for a more accessible service. Ensure children understand the importance of quiet behavior within the church premises. The church's central location makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly activities in Nuwara Eliya. Reddit

🕊️ Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking a spiritual retreat, St. Xavier's Church provides a sanctuary of peace and reflection. The serene atmosphere, coupled with insightful sermons, offers a profound connection to faith. Reddit

Attending a mass, especially the English service on Saturdays, is highly recommended. The presence of a relic of St. Francis Xavier adds to the church's spiritual significance, making it a pilgrimage site for many. Reddit

🏛️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts

St. Xavier's Church is a must-visit for its historical value and brilliant architecture. As a heritage site built in the 1870s, it offers a glimpse into the past with its vintage charm. Reddit

Take time to admire the intricate details of the church's design and appreciate its well-preserved state. Its central location in Nuwara Eliya town makes it an easily accessible point of interest for exploring the area's historical landmarks. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural and Historical Significance

St. Xavier's Church in Nuwara Eliya stands as a testament to historical architecture, built in the 1870s. It's recognized as a heritage site, drawing visitors with its brilliant design and vintage charm. The church's construction reflects the era's architectural styles, offering a glimpse into the past. Reddit

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the church holds spiritual significance, housing a relic of St. Francis Xavier. This relic is a focal point for devotees, especially during the month of September when special celebrations are held. The church's enduring presence in Nuwara Eliya town makes it a landmark of both historical and religious importance. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the serene atmosphere that pervades the church, contributing to a profound spiritual experience. The careful preservation of its vintage charm ensures that the church continues to be a place of peace and reflection for all who enter. Reddit

Experiencing Mass and Spirituality

Attending a mass at St. Xavier's Church offers a deeply spiritual and meaningful experience. While weekday masses are typically conducted in Sinhalese, the Saturday evening English mass provides an accessible option for international visitors. Reddit

The priests are noted for their calm, clear, and meaningful delivery of services. Their sermons are particularly praised for being detailed, easy to understand, and filled with wisdom, effectively bringing the Word of God to life for the congregation. This thoughtful approach enhances the spiritual connection for attendees. Reddit

The overall ambiance of the church is one of profound peace and holiness. This serene environment is consistently described as filling visitors with joy and drawing them closer to God, making each visit a spiritually enriching occasion. Reddit

You may also like