St. John in the Wilderness Church Dharamshala

 St. John in the Wilderness, also known as St. John's Church Dharamshala, is a beautiful church nestled amidst the deodar forests near Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India. Built in 1852, it's one of the oldest churches in the state.


The church is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning neo-Gothic architecture, Belgian stained-glass windows depicting biblical scenes, and peaceful atmosphere.  It is dedicated to John the Baptist.

Here are some additional details you might find interesting:

The church is surrounded by a Christian cemetery, where you can find the tomb of Lord Elgin, a former British Viceroy of India.
The church remarkably survived the devastating Kangra earthquake of 1905, which destroyed many buildings in the area. However, the church's spire did not survive and was later replaced with a new bell in 1915.
The church is part of the Church of North India (CNI) denomination.
Visitors are welcome to enter the church during opening hours, which are typically from 7:00 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM on Sundays. Photography is also permitted inside the church.
If you're planning a trip to Dharamshala, St. John in the Wilderness Church is definitely worth a visit. It's a beautiful and serene place that offers a glimpse into the region's colonial history and Christian heritage.