Historic Mount Mary Church in Bandra offers miraculous healing, stunning Arabian Sea views, and the famous September fair. Complete guide.
Mount Mary Church in Bandra is a 16th-century Portuguese basilica famous for miraculous healing, spectacular Arabian Sea views, and hosting Mumbai's largest religious fair each September. Located on a hilltop in Bandra West, this Catholic pilgrimage site welcomes over 50,000 visitors weekly.
The church stands as one of Mumbai's most significant religious landmarks, drawing devotees from across India regardless of their faith. Built by Portuguese colonists around 1570, the current structure dates to 1904 after the original wooden church was reconstructed in stone.
History and Architecture
Portuguese sailors established the original Mount Mary Church after they survived a shipwreck and attributed their rescue to the Virgin Mary. The current neo-Gothic structure replaced the earlier building, featuring twin spires that rise 80 feet above the Arabian Sea coastline.
The church houses a statue of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus, carved from teak wood and brought from Portugal in the 16th century. Local legend claims the statue was found floating in the sea by fishermen, though historical records suggest it arrived with Portuguese missionaries.
Inside, stained glass windows depict biblical scenes, while marble plaques line the walls with thanksgiving messages from devotees who credit the Virgin Mary with healing serious illnesses, finding employment, and resolving family problems.
The Famous Bandra Fair
Every September, Mount Mary Church transforms into the epicenter of Mumbai's biggest religious celebration. The Bandra Fair runs for eight consecutive days starting the Sunday after September 8th, commemorating the Feast of the Nativity of Mary.
Over two million people attend the fair annually, creating a carnival atmosphere with hundreds of food stalls, game booths, and souvenir shops lining the approach roads. Street vendors sell everything from sugarcane juice (₹30-50 or $0.40-0.60) to pani puri (₹40-60 or $0.50-0.70).
The fair's highlight is the massive procession on September 8th, when thousands of pilgrims climb the 79 steps to the church on their knees as penance or thanksgiving. Police deploy over 1,000 officers to manage the crowds during fair week.
Mass Timings and Services
Mount Mary Church conducts regular masses throughout the week in multiple languages:
Weekday Masses:
- 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM (English)
- 6:00 PM (Hindi/Konkani)
Sunday Masses:
- 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM (English)
- 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM (English)
- 10:00 AM (Konkani)
- 11:00 AM (English)
- 6:00 PM (Hindi)
- 7:00 PM (English)
Special prayers for the sick occur every Wednesday at 7:30 PM, attracting hundreds of people seeking miraculous healing. The church remains open daily from 5:30 AM to 9:00 PM.
Arabian Sea Views and Photography
The church's elevated position offers panoramic views across the Arabian Sea, making it a popular photography spot. The western-facing location provides spectacular sunset views, especially during the monsoon months when dramatic clouds frame the horizon.
The church grounds include manicured gardens and viewing areas where you can sit and enjoy the sea breeze. Professional photographers often shoot wedding photos here, though they must obtain permission from the church office first.
Getting There and Nearby Attractions
Mount Mary Church sits on Mount Mary Road in Bandra West, easily accessible by multiple transport options. The Mumbai transport system connects well to Bandra, with the Western Railway line stopping at Bandra Station just 2 kilometers away.
From Bandra Railway Station:
- Bus routes 211, 222, or 25 (₹15-25 or $0.20-0.30)
- Auto-rickshaw (₹80-120 or $1-1.50)
- Taxi (₹120-180 or $1.50-2.20)
After visiting the church, walk 500 meters to Bandstand Promenade, a popular seafront walkway where locals jog and families gather for evening picnics. The promenade offers views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and hosts several cafes and restaurants.
Carter Road, running parallel to the sea, features numerous dining options from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. This area comes alive after sunset with couples, families, and fitness enthusiasts enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Planning Your Visit
The best time to visit Mount Mary Church is during the cooler months between November and February, though the best time to visit Mumbai varies depending on your preferences. Avoid visiting during the September fair unless you specifically want to experience the crowds.
Dress modestly when entering the church - avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing clothing. The church maintains a peaceful atmosphere, so speak quietly and turn off mobile phones during masses.
If you're planning a longer stay in Mumbai, consider booking accommodation in Bandra, which offers excellent connectivity to other attractions. Check out the where to stay in Mumbai guide for detailed neighborhood recommendations.
Combine your church visit with other spiritual sites by joining one of the city's organized heritage walks in Mumbai, which often include religious landmarks and their historical significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the mass timings at Mount Mary Church?
Mount Mary Church holds masses daily at 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 6:00 PM on weekdays. Sunday masses are at 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 6:00 PM, and 7:00 PM in English, Hindi, and Konkani.
When is the Bandra Fair held at Mount Mary Church?
The annual Bandra Fair takes place for eight days starting the Sunday after September 8th, which marks the Feast of the Nativity of Mary. The fair attracts over two million visitors with food stalls, games, and religious celebrations.
How do I reach Mount Mary Church by public transport?
Take the Western Railway to Bandra Station, then catch bus route 211 or 222 to Mount Mary Church. Alternatively, take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Bandra Station, which costs ₹80-120 ($1-1.50) and takes 10 minutes.