The basilica was granted the title of 'Minor Basilica' by Pope Francis in 2019, making it a significant Roman Catholic site in India.
Local tradition states that the original statue of St. Anthony was unearthed by a farmer while plowing his land in the 18th century.
The shrine underwent major reconstruction in the 1920s, supported by the erstwhile Maharaja of Mysore, Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar.
The annual feast, typically held in June, attracts tens of thousands of pilgrims for a nine-day novena.
The site is often referred to as the 'St. Anthony of Padua' shrine of the Mysore diocese.
St. Anthony's Basilica in Dornahalli is a major Catholic pilgrimage center located in the Mysore district of Karnataka. The site is famous for the miraculous statue of St. Anthony, which was reportedly discovered by a farmer in his field centuries ago. It was officially elevated to the status of a minor basilica by the Vatican in 2019, recognizing its spiritual significance. The current structure features a blend of modern and neo-Gothic architectural elements, built to accommodate large crowds of devotees. Pilgrims gather here primarily to offer prayers and seek intercession for health and personal intentions. The site remains a focal point for the local Christian community in the Mysore diocese. It serves as a spiritual sanctuary drawing visitors from across South India, especially during its annual feast days.
The main exterior facade of the basilica, which displays the architectural details and the basilica's elevated status.
Visit during the early morning to avoid the heat and the largest crowds.
Carry your own water and supplies as commercial facilities are limited immediately around the church.
If visiting during the annual feast in June, be prepared for significant traffic and large-scale crowds.
Avoid visiting on Tuesdays during the busy season if you prefer a quiet experience, as this is a traditional day of heavy prayer traffic.
The basilica experiences extreme footfall during the nine-day annual novena held in June.
Modest dress is required; keep shoulders and knees covered. Remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum or the main prayer hall. Maintain silence inside the basilica.
