The Bom Jesus Basilica, perhaps Goa's most famous church and among the most revered by Christians worldwide, is partially in ruins but still a model of simplicity and elegance, and a fine example of Jesuit architecture.

Located at Old Goa, 10 kilometres east of Panaji, the Bom Jesus Basilica is a World Heritage Monument.

Goa is best visited in the winter, between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. December, especially, is a good time to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus since special ceremonies to honour St Xavier are held on December 3.

How to reach there?

1. By flight: The domestic airport at Dabolim (30 km from Panaji) has frequent flights from Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Bangalore and Kochi, besides chartered flights from overseas.

2. By train: The two railway stations- at Vasco da Gama and Margao- also have a number of trains arriving at Goa from the rest of the country.

3. By Road: Here are bus networks which connect the state to other cities and towns in Western and Southern India. From Panaji- or any other place in Goa, there are excellent bus connections to Old Goa. Alternately, you can hire a car or take a taxi to visit the Basilica of Bom Jesus, including the exciting motorbike taxis.