Darjeeling, a mesmerizing hill station located in the eastern part of India, extended over a steep mountain range amidst the lush green tea plantation, welcome visitors with its enticing sunrises, impeccable panoramic vistas, heart-warming culture and gratifying local people. Churches in Darjeeling are perfect sites for a spiritual retreat in this city known as the ‘Queen of the Himalayas’. You can witness the unique architecture and ambiance of these churches purveying a glimpse of the city that was the summer capital under British Raj.
Reasons To Visit Churches In Darjeeling
If you are thinking that visiting churches in Darjeeling won’t be an exciting expedition, then you must know the following facts:
- These churches were established in the 18th & 19th centuries and exhibit the journey of these religious spots.
- These places uncover some rarely known facts about Darjeeling.
- One can hear the historical tales of the British Raj in India.
- Some of these churches are those where British armies performed their religious traditions.
- If someone asks about Darjeeling, you can tell them that there is more to Darjeeling than panoramic vistas of tea plantations.
Best Churches In Darjeeling
The churches in Darjeeling unveils the lesser known fact about this mystically beautiful place located at the height of 2,050 meters above sea level. All of these churches have a unique story but what’s common between them is the religious aura and astounding views of this scenic hill station. The following are the best churches in Darjeeling, one must not miss out on while holidaying here:
Must Read: 5 Villas In Darjeeling That Are Like Paradisiacal Homes Amidst Lush Greenery!
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1. St. Andrews Church
St. Andrews Church Darjeeling was established in 1843, however, after being damaged by an earthquake, it was rebuilt in the year 1873. You can walk down along the circular Mall Road to reach this astounding church, named after the patron saint of Scotland. The early worshippers of this church include numerous Scottish soldiers and local tea planters residing in Darjeeling. The church features marble tablets and brass plaques immortalizing the oldest residents of Darjeeling including Lt. General Lloyd who is believed to be the Discoverer of Darjeeling.
Lt. General Lloyd came to Darjeeling in 1828 to sign a treaty with the head of Sikkim and continued living here until his death in 1865. You might not be much convinced with the outer looks of this church, however, you might be surprised once you enter it as one can witness the complete history of Darjeeling at this spot.
Location: Opposite Gorkha Ranga Manch, Mall Road, Darjeeling
Suggested Read: Why Visiting Darjeeling In Monsoon Is The Best Travel Decisions Ever
2. St. Columbas Kirk
Another Scottish church located near the railway station of Darjeeling is St. Columbas Kirk that highlights the family of Peterson Lennox Black-wood. You can witness the scenic beauty of Darjeeling from this beautiful church. This peaceful place will give you a chance to spend some spiritual hours amidst the lush green ambiance of this city.
Location: Limbugaon, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
Suggested Read: Darjeeling In December: A Little Guide
3. St. Jude Catholic Church
St. Jude Catholic Church is the oldest Catholic church in Darjeeling that was built in 1892. The church was vacant for decades after the British left India. Later, the Catholic community of Darjeeling reopened the church. From the inception, this church ministered to the spiritual needs of the Brtish troops residing in Darjeeling. One can witness the unique past of this church by planning a visit to it.
Location: E Lebong Rd, Lebong, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734105
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4. Immaculate Conception Church
The foundation stone of the Immaculate Conception Church was laid by Archbishop Goethals in 1892. This magnificent church is 113 feet by 28 feet with oratories on both sides of the sanctuary. Immaculate Conception Church was under the pastoral care of Belgium Jesuits. After sixty years in 1947, the Belgium Jesuits handed over this Catholic Mission of Darjeeling to Canadian Jesuits.
Location: Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
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5. Roman Catholic Church
The Roman Catholic Church in Darjeeling is located near the Mall Road and is a part of the Loretto Convent. It was established in 1864 by the Irish Loreto Sisters and is believed to be the gateway Catholic Diocese in Darjeeling. The church is also associated with St. Josephs College in Darjeeling. The church is located on a serene location showcasing the emergence of Catholics in India.
Suggested Read: 26 Scenic Tourist Places In Darjeeling
6. St. Theresa Church
St. Theresa Church located in Kalimpong is a popular attraction built by the locals and Tibetan craftsmen. This church showcases an amazing amalgamation of the Gothic and Tibetan style of architecture with unique wooden cravings and exquisite Biblical illustrations on the inner walls of the church. Its located amidst the lofty mountains covered with dense forests that entice the visitors giving a lifetime memory.
Location: Chauk Bazaar, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734101
7. Sacred Heart Church
The Sacred Heart Church was established by Fr. Joseph Ford, a Belgium Jesuit at Singamari in Darjeeling. Before 1951, all the Baptisms of Darjeeling were organized in this church. The structure of this church is entirely different from other churches in Darjeeling and its peaceful halls are believed to be one of the best halls for prayers. You can also visit the other popular destination at North Point while planning an excursion here.
Location: North Point, Darjeeling, West Bengal 734104
Further Read: 15 Resorts In Darjeeling You’d Never Want To Leave From
Darjeeling is a perfect break from the hot and humid summers of India, purveying a dynamic blend of spectacular tea gardens on the mountain slopes, exciting toy train rides via serene city, scrumptious traditional Tibetan cuisine, and enlightening spiritual spots including the famous churches of Darjeeling. Plan a trip to Darjeeling through TravelTriangle and witness the majestic hill station embedded in the eastern part of India.
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Sakshi Awasthi, an ardent traveler by heart is a Research Scholar from the University of Delhi. Unveiling the untold story of historical sites and encountering the impeccable beauty of nature, turned her to be a Travel Blogger. Currently, working as a Senior Content Writer with TravelTriangle.
