Himachal is all about scenic beauty, serenity, pleasant climate, and enthralling adventure and thrill. From snow-laden Himalayas ranges, sprawling valleys, waterfalls, and lakes to snowboarding, skiing, trekking, camping, and paragliding; Himachal Pradesh boasts of everything. If you are on a trip to this scenic paradise do not miss checking out the popular tourist attractions which include palaces, museums, and churches. The churches in Himachal Pradesh have a rich historical background and history to wonder at. Each of them looks beautiful and elegant and their serene ambiance makes everyone feel soothing and invigorated.
Pretty Churches In Himachal Pradesh
A glance at the list of churches in Shimla, Dalhousie, and other places in Himachal Pradesh that you must visit. Make a wish list and decide which you should see during the vacation.
1. Christ Church, Shimla
2. St. Mary’s Church, Shimla
3. St. Michael’s Cathedral, Shimla
4. Christ Church, Kasauli
5. St. John’s Church, Dalhousie
6. St. Patrick’s Church, Dalhousie
7. St. Andrew’s Church, Dalhousie
8. St. Francis Church, Dalhousie
9. Church Of Scotland, Chamba
10. Wilderness Church, Palampur
1. Christ Church Shimla
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The church was built in the year 1857, Christ Church is one of the churches in Shimla that is among the oldest churches in North India, after St John’s Church in Meerut. The Neo-Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and angular roof make it a sign of admiration while its prominent location right on the ridge makes it one of the most important landmarks in Shimla. If you are holidaying in Shimla, you probably can’t miss the beauty, charm, and tranquil ambiance of this grand structure.
Location: Ridge To US Club, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
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2. St. Mary’s Church Shimla
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Nestled in the middle of a scenic apple orchard in Kotgarh Shimla, St. Mary’s Church is one of the most popular churches in Shimla. This is a small and quaint wooden chapel built by Moravian missionaries and the Church Missionary Society. Offering Sunday Mass, regular prayers, and other religious and social services, St. Mary’s Church Shimla is flocked by locals and the stunning beauty and architecture have made it a favorite place for travelers too.
Location: Bemloi, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
3. St. Michael’s Cathedral, Shimla
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With French-Gothic architecture, spacious prayer halls, arched doorway, and fresco-painted glasses, St. Michael’s Cathedral is one of the most picturesque churches in Shimla. This is probably one of the largest churches in Himachal Pradesh, with a vestry, a nave, a confessional room, aisles, and a baptistery room. Located below the District Court, this is the first Roman-Catholic church of Himachal Pradesh and allures visitors from all over India. If you are planning a city tour in Shimla, do not miss out on this.
Location: Heritage Building, Ram Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
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4. Christ Church Kasauli
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Kasauli is a quaint holiday abode between Shimla and Kalka and Christ Church is one of the tempting attractions here. Located at the heart of this town, Christ Church is an iconic building in Kasauli. This is an Anglican church built in 1853 and the Gothic style architecture, peaceful environment, and surrounding lush green scenery not only makes it one of the most visited churches in Himachal Pradesh but also makes it one of the relaxing places to explore.
Location: Mall Rd, Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
5. St. John’s Church Dalhousie
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Surrounded by luxuriant pine forests and sprawling valleys, St. John’s Church is the first church built in Dalhousie and one of the popular Himachal Pradesh churches. The mighty stone structure depicts the typical colonial architecture and the church resembles the Roman Catholic Church of England. This is one of the primary tourist attractions in Dalhousie and people visit to admire the amazing structure and to enjoy the overwhelming serenity all around.
Location: Gandhi Chowk, Moti Tiba, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
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6. St. Patrick’s Church Dalhousie
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St. Patrick’s Church is the largest in Dalhousie and was built in 1909. Located close to the main bus stand, St. Patrick’s Church Dalhousie is one of the popular churches in Himachal Pradesh which enjoys a prime location. There is a huge prayer hall that can accommodate up to 300 people during Sunday Mass prayer and the main Altar, doorway, fresco paintings, and sculptures are equally beautiful and attractive.
Location: Military Hospital Road, Dalhousie
Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
7. St. Andrew’s Church, Dalhousie
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St. Andrew’s Church is adorned with stunning glasswork and interiors and because of its grand look and charm, it is aptly called ‘the church of Scotland’. The church was built in 1903 and is one of the few Protestant churches in Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful structure, facades, porches, and wooden interior enhance the charm of the place manifold. Located in the center of the Cantonment area, one needs to procure special permission to visit the church.
Location: Near Dalhousie Bus Stand, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh
Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
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8. St. Francis Church, Dalhousie
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Surrounded by opulent deodar forests, St. Francis Church is another name without which the list of best churches in Himachal Pradesh cannot be completed. This church is more than 100 years old and continues to be one of the must-see tourist attractions in Dalhousie. The interior looks colorful and vibrant while the exterior stonework, sculptures, and colonial architecture make it look amazing. The priest’s house is called Alvernam, which is located close to the church and is usually visited by people who come to see the church.
Location: DFO Rd, Moti Tiba, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh 176305
Opening hours: 7 am to 7 pm
9. Church Of Scotland, Chamba
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A structure of earth-colored stone and arched windows, this church was built in the early 20th century by Raja Sham Singh as a part of the Church of Scotland mission. It was founded to create a space of worship for the Christian community of Chamba. The church is located in the main market of the city and draws a lot of tourists and locals alike. The architecture lends a serene and relaxing atmosphere to the church.
Location: Chowgan Mohalla, Chamba, Himachal Pradesh 176312
Opening hours: 10 am – 8 pm
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10. Wilderness Church, Palampur
This beautiful church, also called the St. John in the Wilderness Church, is one of the most beautiful ones. As the name suggests, it is located in an area densely populated with pine trees and is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. The church is built in the style of Gothic architecture, which was the popular style in the mid-1800s and features beautiful stained glass windows. It is an absolutely unmissable place to visit when you’re vacationing in Himachal.
Location: Palampur, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176219
Opening hours: 7:00 am to 6:30 pm
Further Read: Offbeat Destinations In Himachal Pradesh
Like the scenic charm, pristine beauty, and adventure activities, the churches in Himachal Pradesh are equally enticing, and charming and help to make the holiday worthwhile in every aspect. Plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh to explore these beautiful churches and explore their beauty, heritage, and charm. By visiting these churches in Himachal Pradesh, you’ll get to experience the devotional vibe and create the best holiday memories.
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Cover Image Credit: Suman Wadhwa for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Churches In Himachal Pradesh
Name the popular travel destinations in Himachal Pradesh?
Himachal Pradesh is adorned with beautiful tourist destinations. The popular ones are the churches in Manali, Shimla, Kulu, Dharamshala, Mcleodganj, Dalhousie, Kasauli, Kufri, Chail, Solan, Kasol. Lahul, Spiti, and Khajjair.
Which is the oldest church in Himachal Pradesh?
Constructed in 1857, Christ Church in Shimla is the oldest church in Himachal Pradesh.
Which is the holy city in Himachal Pradesh?
Dharamshala is considered a holy city since it houses various temples and churches, and is also the abode of the Dalai Lama.
Which church is famous in Himachal Pradesh?
The popular churches in Himachal Pradesh are Christ Church in Shimla, St. John Church, St. Francis Catholic Church, and St. Andrews Church.
What is the name of the church in Dharamshala?
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Abhay Kumar is a graduate of English Literature. Writing is both his hobby and his passion. He writes academic research articles as well as poetry and short fiction. He loves reading science fiction, fantasy, literary fiction, and translated fiction. He also loves traveling and writing about himself in the third person.
