Churches in Uttarakhand are the significant monuments of the country. Since ages they have played a vital role in serving the Christian devotees and pilgrims of the state. Christianity had emerged in the state of Uttarakhand ages ago and flourished mainly during the British Empire in India. Numerous churches were built in this era, which have been efficiently maintained through years.
St. John`s Church
St. John`s Church is a famous church of the state built in 1844. It is situated in Nainital near Naina Devi Temple. The Bishop of Calcutta, Daniel Wilson, laid the foundation of the church and also named it. On the altar of the church, a brass plaque is placed on which the names of 1880 Landslip victims are inscribed.
Kellogg Memorial Church
Kellogg Memorial Church is located in Mussoorie. This ancient Presbytarian Church was constructed in the year 1903. Built in greystone, the church exhibits magnificent gothic architecture with elegant stained glass windows. The church serves as a famous landmark as well as a popular tourist destination.
Christ Church
Christ church of Mussoorie is one of the oldest churches of the Himalayan belt. It was established in 1836 by the British community who were the residents of this region at that time. The spectacular church was built in gothic style of architecture and the magnificent stained glass windows portray life events of Jesus Christ. The interiors of the church are impressively decorated. An ancient William Hill organ is kept inside the church which is believed to be about 100 years old.
St. Mary`s Church
St. Mary`s Church is another ancient church of the state, constructed in 1895 by Col. A.H.B Hume of the Royal Engineers. Around 1947, when the church started to deteriorate, it was converted into a small museum by the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre. It presently houses pictures of pre-independence era and audio visuals narrating the history of the regiment.
Churches in Uttarakhand exhibit excellent architecture mostly belonging to gothic style. Intricate and brilliant artistry adorns the interiors of these churches which allures people from different parts of the country irrespective of caste and religion to visit these magnificent monuments. These churches serve as popular tourist attractions and also contribute to the national heritage of the country.