Churches are of varied interest for many of us. For some of them, it could purely be a religious reason, while for others, it is the mere observation of the architecture and yet others consider it as a day out. But with the many famous churches in Himachal Pradesh, every day becomes a reason to pray. The beautiful big structures stand tall amidst the beautiful and breathtaking view of the mountains, the ever-flowing rivers below and the calmness you get out of the atmosphere, which satisfies you from the core. Himachal Pradesh has some of the complex Chapels in India in terms of their architecture.
Famous Churches in Himachal Pradesh: What You Shouldn’t Miss
Experience what it feels like to be in some of the popular lists of churches in Himachal Pradesh.
1. Christ Church:
Christ Church is located in Shimla and stands tall on a ridge. It is the oldest church in Himachal Pradesh and the second oldest church in North India. Local autos or taxis can take you to the church or walk down from the Shimla US club. The majestic church is famous for its antiquity. The stained glasses on the windows of the church represent faith, humanity and patience. No trip to Shimla is ever complete without visiting the church which is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The architecture is inspired by the Neo-Gothic style and the clock on the structure is a gift. March to June is the best time to visit this church and from mid December to January it snows in Shimla you will find a beautiful view of the church and surroundings and you can celebrate Christmas in grandeur in this historic church.
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2. Christ Church Kasauli:
the Christ Church in Kasauli is still known for having preserved the elements left by the British years ago. The gothic arches are proportioned rightly and they are framed against the deodar woods. The church is open from 7 a.m. in morning to 7 p.m. at night. The beautiful structure and the scenic beauty surrounding the church is a treat to watch and admire. The beauty of it is evidently observed when the day’s first sunshine enters the building through the painted mirrors of the church. The stained that are in the church is imported from England at the time of construction. If you are looking for some thrill, here is something that will interest you. There is a cemetery with graves surrounding the church which dates back to 1850. Give this church a serious thought!
3. St. John’s Church, Dharamshala:
St. John’s is a famous church in Himachal Pradesh, located about 8km from the city and is situated in the forest between Mcleod Ganj and Forsyth Ganj. The church has a monument that is dedicated to the then viceroy of India, Lord Elgin. He was buried here in 1863. The major attraction here is the Belgian stained glass window, donated by Lady Elgin. The Gaggal airport and Pathankot railway station are the nearest routes to reach the church. It is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Immerse yourself in the calmness of the surroundings and of the deodar trees.
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4. St. John’s Church Dalhousie:
this Church is particularly famous for its historical significance. Constructed during British rule, it was established by the missionaries of the Protestants. The British style make of wood and bricks is apparent in the architecture and the beautiful surroundings have a role to add to the beauty. The Sunday services in the church attract a large number of tourists and are the oldest in the region. The church is situated about 2 km from the bus stand of Dalhousie. Even the tainted glass of the church adds a special charm to the Church. The church is open to the public from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day.
5. St. Patrik’s Church:
St. Patrik’s church is situated in Baloon in the Dalhousie Cantt and is only about 2 km from the main bus stand. A free Sunday service is conducted every week and the beautiful location of the church adds to the charm of the structure. The church was built out of the contributions donated by the officers and the British Army. The church is big and can house roughly about 300 people in the main hall of the place. Simply lose yourself in the prayers and the surroundings nearby.
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What Should You Know Before Visiting The Churches in Himachal Pradesh?
Here are some unsaid rules while you visit the churches here.
- Always follow the dress code laid down by the local church. They tend to take dress codes and other culture-specific things seriously. Thus, you will contribute to the sanctity of the place.
- Strict no to littering. Keeping the premises is another unsaid rule.
- Some churches don’t allow photography and it at best to actually abide by them. Some of them also maintain silence in the hall and will expect you to do the same too.
After all, be a Roman when in Rome!
We all sure love a trip out. But the real joy comes when you choose the right place. If you are intending for a full pilgrim trip, choose the hills over the city and experience a soul altering change. Pray amongst the hills and take home energy, positivity and goodness. The ranges sure have a lot to offer and out of the many, peace is the first!
