Late on the morning of 2 August 2025, our family of six piled into the car—my wife and I, our daughters Aarti and Zoey, and my in‑laws—ready for an impromptu pilgrimage. Delhi’s skyline slowly receded as we pointed north toward Sardhana and the 203‑year‑old Basilica of Our Lady of Graces (Church Road, Sardhana, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh 250671, India). Outside, the weather couldn’t make up its mind: one moment, raindrops clattered on the roof, the next, the sun burst through like a spotlight on our adventure.

Amid that patchwork sky, we passed around foil‑wrapped kebab rolls stuffed with pickled onions and slathered in mint‑coriander chutney. Laughter mixed with the scent of spices, and every time the clouds shifted, the girls cheered like we’d scored front-row seats to nature’s show. After two hours of road‑trip camaraderie, the 200‑year‑old Basilica of Our Lady of Graces appeared, its domes gleaming under the humid sunshine—our destination and the perfect backdrop for a day of faith, family, and fun.

A Ride Full of Sun, Showers & Laughter

• Rain or Shine? One moment we were dodging raindrops, the next we were basking in bright sunshine.

• Snack Attack! Chicken rolls + pickled onions + chutney = road‑trip bliss. The girls cheered every time the clouds parted.

Hello, Sardhana!

Pulling into the basilica’s parking lot, we were greeted by the grand domes of the Basilica of Our Lady of Graces shining under a humid, sunlit sky. It felt like the heavens had dialed in perfect weather just for us!

Stepping Inside: Quiet, Cool & Calm

• We slipped into the church’s soothing shade, thankful for the humidity break.

• No Saturday service, just a few fellow visitors soaking in the sacred stillness.

• The silence wrapped around us like a warm hug—perfect for a moment of prayer and reflection.

A Quick Peek into Sardhana Church History

• Did you know this stunning basilica was built by Begum Samru, once a dancer who became India’s only Catholic ruler?

• Started: 1809 after her conversion to Christianity

• Consecrated: 1822 - and later became a Minor Basilica in 1961

• Architectural Love: Mughal‑European fusion with neoclassical touches by Antonio Reghellini (think St. Peter’s vibes, Indian flair!)

Little Treasures & Sweet Memories

After prayers, we browsed the gift stalls:

• Rosaries for peaceful nights

• Christ-inspired rings for daily reminders

• Table decor that feels like Sunday brunch every day

• Our favorite find? A tiny nativity set that now sits on our mantel, ready to spark family prayers at dusk.

Picnic? Almost!

We dreamed of blankets and a lavish home‑cooked spread under the church lawn...but the rain-damp grass had other plans. No worries—we saved the feast for home and headed back.

Home Sweet Picnic Finale

Back in Delhi, we unpacked our kebab rolls (still delicious!), added fresh fruit and chai, and turned the courtyard into a mini party.

• Kids’ Corner: Impromptu dance party to Bollywood hits

• Grandparents’ Corner: Candle‑lighting prayers and hopeful wishes for the new school year

Why This Day Sparkled

• Family Bonding: Six hearts sharing music, laughter, and snacks

• Spiritual Pause: Quiet moments inside a 200‑year‑old basilica

• History & Heritage: Begum Samru’s legacy meets modern family fun

• Weather Whimsy: Rain‑shine choreography that felt like a blessing

What Do You Need To Enjoy The Picnic?

• Picnic Blanket - https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/product-page/large-multicolor-waterproof-picnic-blanket-60x80

• Wicker Picnic Basket - https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/product-page/wicker-picnic-basket-for-4

• Outdoor Game - https://www.letsgowanderbout.com/product-page/giant-tumbling-timber-toy

Thank you, Sardhana, for the perfect blend of faith, family, and joyous memories. Until next time—may your prayers be as lively as our road‑trip playlist and your hearts as full as ours! You can also check a Field Note on one of the Seven Wonders of the World - Taj Mahal, India. You can also check out this link to plan your trip now.