20 facts about St John in the Wilderness Church in super McLeodganj
20 facts about St John in the Wilderness Church is a beautiful and historic Anglican church located in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu, India. It was built in 1873 and is known for its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. The church is surrounded by lush green forests and is situated on the banks of the Silver Cascade, a waterfall that flows down the hill.
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The church is dedicated to St John the Baptist and is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque location and rich history. Visitors can attend Sunday services, take a guided tour, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
St John in the Wilderness Church is one of the most iconic landmarks in McLeod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh.
Here are 20 facts about St John in the Wilderness
1. Built in 1852: St John in the Wilderness Church was built in 1852 and is one of the oldest churches in the region.
2. Neo-Gothic Architecture: The church features classic neo-Gothic architecture, with tall windows, pointed arches, and a rustic stone exterior.
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3. Dedicated to John the Baptist: The church is named after John the Baptist, who is also referred to as “St. John in the Wilderness.”
4. Survived the 1905 Earthquake: The church was one of the few buildings in the region to survive the devastating Kangra earthquake in 1905, although its bell tower was destroyed.
5. Belgian Stained Glass Windows: The church boasts stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes, imported from Belgium.
Important things 20 facts about St John in the Wilderness
6. Memorial of Lord Elgin: The church houses the tomb of Lord Elgin, the Viceroy of India, who died in Dharamshala in 1863.
7. Set Amidst Deodar Forests: The church is nestled in dense deodar forests, creating a peaceful and serene environment.
8. Bell from England: The new bell installed after the 1905 earthquake was brought from England and still chimes today.
9. Graveyard with Historical Tombstones: The church’s graveyard contains tombstones dating back to the British era, adding to its historical significance.
Architecture 20 facts about St John in the Wilderness
10. Scottish Influence: The design of the church reflects a strong Scottish influence, a nod to the heritage of Lord Elgin, who was of Scottish descent.
11. Popular Among British Officers: During the British Raj, the church was a popular place of worship for British officers and their families.
12. Still Active Today: St John in the Wilderness is still an active church, holding regular services and special events.
13. Peaceful Ambiance: The serene and quiet atmosphere of the church makes it a popular spot for meditation and reflection.
14. Located Near Forsyth Ganj: The church is located near Forsyth Ganj, just a short drive from McLeod Ganj.
Beauty
15. Rustic Charm: The church’s weathered stone walls and moss-covered surroundings give it a unique, timeless charm.
16. Tourist Attraction: It is a major tourist attraction in McLeod Ganj, drawing both pilgrims and history enthusiasts.
17. Historic Bell Tower: The new bell tower, rebuilt after the earthquake, stands proudly and continues to be a notable feature of the church.
18. Caretaker’s Cottage: Adjacent to the church is a quaint caretaker’s cottage, which adds to the overall charm of the site.
19. Surrounding Flora and Fauna: The area around the church is rich in flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers.
20. Easy Accessibility: The church is easily accessible by road and is a common stop for those exploring McLeod Ganj and its surroundings.
It’s important to note that as of 2024 they have started an entry fee of ₹20 to enter the church
These facts highlight the rich history, architectural beauty, and serene ambiance that make St John in the Wilderness a must-visit in McLeod Ganj.
