St. John In The Wilderness Church is a historic and picturesque church in McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, India. The church is situated amidst the serene and tranquil forests of the Dhauladhar mountain range, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.
The church was built in 1852 and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist, who is believed to have spent considerable time meditating in the wilderness. The British constructed the church during their colonial rule in India, serving as a place of worship for the soldiers and officers stationed in the area.
St. John In The Wilderness Church is designed in the neo-Gothic style of architecture, and its walls are made of rough-hewn stone, giving it a unique and rustic appearance. The church has beautiful stained glass windows that depict scenes from the Bible, and its interiors are adorned with intricate wood carvings and murals.
One of the most unique features of the church is the beautiful cemetery that surrounds it. The cemetery is home to the final resting places of many British soldiers and officers who lost their lives during the colonial era in India. The graves are marked with beautiful marble tombstones with intricate engravings and inscriptions, making it a popular spot for history enthusiasts.
The church is also famous for its annual Christmas service, attended by people worldwide. The service is held in the early morning hours, and the beautiful hymns sung by the choir and the peaceful surroundings make it a truly magical experience.
Places To Visit Near St John In The Wilderness Church:
This ancient Hindu temple is located just a few kilometres from the church and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is set amidst the scenic surroundings of the Bhagsu waterfall and is a popular spot for tourists and locals.
This beautiful lake is located about 4 km from McLeod Ganj and is surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains. The lake is a popular spot for boating and picnicking and has a small temple on its banks.
This is one of the most scenic cricket stadiums in the world and is located just a few kilometres from the church. The stadium is set against the backdrop of the Dhauladhar mountains and is a must-visit for sports enthusiasts.
This scenic trekking trail is about 9 km from McLeod Ganj and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is moderately challenging and takes 4-5 hours to complete.
This ancient fort is located about 20 km from McLeod Ganj and is one of India's oldest and most well-preserved forts. The fort dates back to the 4th century BC and has been ruled by various dynasties over the centuries.