Located amid thick lush green forests on the way toMcLeodganj, St. John Church in Dharamshala is an important historic attraction. Built a century ago, this church in a thick wilderness is an architectural marvel of the British era. The church is a great spiritual as well as a famous tourist attraction in Dharamshala for its natural beauty. Its magnificent architectural works and the surrounding lush green forests make everyone visit the place for sure. Let’s have a look at the church to know in detail about the beauty of St. John.
All about the St. John in the Wilderness Church:
The church is located in the jungle of deodar forests amid McLeodganj and Forsyth Ganj. This church was constructed in the year 1863 AD in memory of Lord Elgin, who was one of the viceroys of India. This church is dedicated to John the Baptist and it is an Anglican church. What’s the special attraction of the church is its neo-Gothic architecture. It receives a large number of tourists to witness the architecture of the temple.
The special architectural wonders to capture here are the main attraction, the Belgian stained-glass window, brass of the old oil lamps now turned into electric lights, pointed arches, and a magnificent bell installed in 1915 AD. Later, on the church premises, there is a graveyard, where you can see different descriptions of that time and coffins of British officers. Apart from the church, the surrounding lush greenery is the other major attraction of this place. People like to visit the church enjoying the church and witnessing the great architectural marvel.
The church remains closed every day except on Sundays. During the day, prayers will be held in the morning. St. John is a wonderful historical magnificent to witness in Dharamshala. How strong it is means, that even in the Kangra earthquake in 1905it stood straight without any disturbance even the Belgian glass also not broken. St. John’s church is such a strong and historic monument to visit in Dharamshala.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to explore this wonder is the summer season. During that time, the temperature will be favourable for outdoor activities and sightseeing tours. It is better to visit between March and June. If you visit in winter, the temperature will be very low, and heavy snowfall obstructs all outdoor activities. For good sightseeing tours, Summer is the best choice.
How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport to the church is Kangra Airport. It is 21 km far away from the location. After reaching the location, you can hire a taxi or cab to Dharamshala.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Nagrota, which is 32 km away. From there, you can have buses or cabs to Dharamshala.
By Road: It is the best way to reach the church. Because the church is very close to Main Bus stand. So you take a direct bus to Dharamshala. Then you hire a cab or taxi to reach the church.
In Dharamshala, St. John Church in the wilderness is a great historical monument to witness. It is a great testimony of history and an exemplar of great architecture. Whenever you are close to McLeodganj, never forget to visit this iconic marvel at any cost.
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