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| St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Darjeeling, WB 1001things.org |
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| St. Andrew’s Church, Darjeeling,WB yappe.in |
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| St. Andrew’s Church,Darjeeling,India .connecting traveller.com |
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| St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, Darjeeling, WB 1001things.org |
St. Andrew’s Anglican Church stands as an exquisite colonial landmark on Mall Road, about 1.5 km from the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Station. Perched at an elevation of 6,700 ft (2,042.2 m) in the Lesser Himalayas, the church offers breathtaking views of the mighty Himalayan ranges, including the majestic Mt. Kangchenjunga. Its striking location and rich history make it an essential stop for visitors exploring the remnants of British colonial influence in Darjeeling.
Established during the early 19th century, the church was conceived to serve the spiritual needs of British soldiers, patients, and tea planters residing in this burgeoning hill station. The foundation stone was laid on November 30, 1843—dedicated to St. Andrew—at a then-significant cost of Rs 9000. Although the original structure was damaged by an earthquake, it was rebuilt in 1873, reflecting the resilience and commitment of the colonial community.
Designed in the classic Gothic style, the church features pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses—elements typical of early European ecclesiastical architecture for additional support to the walls. The modest yet elegant structure, with a fine spire crowned by a cross, epitomizes the fusion of British architectural principles with local craftsmanship. Additional colonial influences are evident in the intricate stained glass windows and robust stone masonry, both designed to withstand the region’s seismic challenges.
Inside, memorial marble tablets and brass plaques, including one honoring Charlotte Countess Canning, enrich the sacred ambiance. Countess Canning, wife of the Governor General of that time was on a visit to Darjeeling in 1861 to sketch the landscapes. On her way back, at Terai she, unfortunately, contracted malaria, a dreaded disease in those days, and died in Calcutta.
Today, St. Andrew’s not only continues to host regular services and an annual Christmas Carol Service but also remains a cherished testament to Darjeeling’s colonial past and architectural legacy.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2019/12/the-gorgeous-colonial-anglican-church.html
https://yappe.in/west-bengal/darjeeling/st-andrews-church/64718
https://1001things.org/st-andrews-church-darjeeling/
https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/darjeeling-s-british-legacy-a-journey
https://www.trawell.in/west-bengal/darjeeling/st-andrews-church
https://blog.sterlingholidays.com/st-andrews-church-darjeeling-reminiscing-a-bygone-colonial-era
