Christ Church Shimla, located in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India, is one of the major landmarks and heritage buildings of the city. It is a beautiful church dating back to the colonial period and is known for its architectural grandeur and historical importance. Christ Church Shimla is the second oldest church in northern India, the first being St. John’s Church of Meerut. The church holds services every Sunday at 10 am and is open to the public daily from 9 am to 5 pm. A visit to Church Shimla gives a glimpse into Shimla’s colonial past and architectural marvels. The serene setting, stunning architecture, and historical significance of the church make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.
Christ Church Shimla
Church Shimla is situated on The Ridge, a prominent open space in the heart of Shimla. Christ Church Shimla has a rich history dating back to the British colonial period. It was built in 1857 as a place of worship for the British community living in Shimla. Its foundation stone was laid on 9 September 1844 by Bishop Daniel Wilson of Calcutta. The estimated cost of construction at that time was Rs 40,000 to 50,000. The interiors of the church are equally stunning, with beautifully crafted wooden benches, a pulpit made of walnut, and brass plaques commemorating notable individuals associated with the church. The architecture of the church is inspired by the neo-Gothic style, which was prevalent during the colonial period.
It has stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible, a large clock tower, and intricate stone masonry work. Design elements include lancet windows, a pointed arch entrance, and a spire that rises to a height of 90 feet. Christ Church’s ornate clock was donated by Colonel Dumbleton in 1860. The church has a 150-year-old antique clock, which was brought from England. The bell has a deep resonant tone and adds to the overall charm and aura of the church.
Hotels Near Christ Church Shimla
There are many hotels near Christ Church Shimla that provide accommodation options for visitors. Located on The Mall Road, Clarks Hotel is a heritage property known for its colonial charm. Hotel Kapil This hotel is located a short walk from Christ Church and offers a range of facilities including a restaurant, bar, and spa. It has a good rating of 4.2/5 on TripAdvisor. Located on Chaura Maidan Road, The Oberoi Cecil is a luxury hotel known for its opulence and impeccable service. Located on Mall Road, Hotel Willow Banks is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of Shimla.
Hotel Combermere is a popular hotel located on Mall Road. Cedar Grand Hotel & Spa. This luxurious hotel is situated in the heart of Shimla and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It has an excellent rating of 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor. Hotel Marina offers modern rooms, a restaurant, and a bar. Located on Circular Road, Hotel Baljees Regency offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and panoramic views of Shimla. It is always recommended to check availability, prices, and reviews before booking to ensure a pleasant stay.
Services and Activities
Christ Church Shimla is an active place of worship and holds regular services. It is open to visitors and welcomes people of all faiths. The church hosts a variety of events including weddings, concerts, and community gatherings. The church is surrounded by well-maintained gardens, which add to its serene atmosphere. It is located close to other tourist attractions such as Mall Road, Scandal Point, and Gaiety Theatre, making it easily accessible to visitors.
