St. John in the Wilderness

The place is realy clean and peaceful. It is located just outside the town of Mcleodganj in Forsyth Gunj.

A pristine church at the serene wilderness aside the road. The church is made of stone masonry with sloping roof. The surroundings are so beautiful with tall pine trees and the sound of crickets.

I don't know who st. John was (did my research on Google later), but the church stands tall in all its colonial glory with a tomb at the back which was built by the wife of a British viceroy in his memory.
If not for the love of God you can surely visit to experience peace and quiet in beautiful natural surroundings.

Historic place. Open all days. Entrance is free. No checking. I have put the video of this on my YouTube channel. You may see before coming. There is also a graveyard at the backside. You can go inside church after removing shoes.

Person inside the Church was a third class, don't know how to talk, how to behave, एक नंबर का घटिया नीच आदमी था, बाहर होता तो उसको बता देता उसकी औकात, मैनेजमेंट से रिक्वेस्ट है कि उसको वहां से हटा दे।

St. John's Church in Wilderness, located on the route from Dharamshala to McLeod Ganj, is a historical landmark that holds both religious and architectural significance. As you approach the church, the scenic beauty of the surrounding area leaves you awestruck, making the visit even more special. The church's captivating beauty is accentuated by the lush greenery, rolling hills, and a serene atmosphere, creating a tranquil ambiance that is perfect for introspection and connecting with nature.

The church itself is a masterpiece of architectural splendor, showcasing a perfect blend of neo-gothic and colonial styles. Its towering spires, intricate stained-glass windows, and majestic facade transport you back in time, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the region. For history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, St. John's Church in Wilderness is an absolute treat.

The ambiance inside the church is equally enchanting. The hushed silence and soft rays of sunlight filtering through the stained-glass windows create a sense of serenity and reverence. It's a wonderful place to sit quietly and meditate, allowing yourself to be immersed in the spiritual aura of the surroundings. While photography is allowed on the church premises, the respectful request not to take pictures inside is understandable as it helps maintain the sanctity of the sacred space.

One aspect to consider when planning a visit to St. John's Church in Wilderness is the weather. The region experiences heavy monsoons, and visiting during this season may not be advisable due to slippery roads and limited visibility. The best time to visit is during the pleasant spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and ideal for exploration.

As there is no designated parking area, visitors must park their vehicles on the roadside. While this may seem a bit inconvenient, it's a small price to pay for the chance to witness the beauty and history this church has to offer. Additionally, it's worth noting that there is only one caretaker, an elderly gentleman, who lovingly looks after the church. His presence adds a touch of authenticity to the experience and showcases the community's dedication to preserving their heritage.

In conclusion, St. John's Church in Wilderness, Dharamshala, is a true gem that combines spirituality, history, and architectural beauty in a stunning natural setting. Whether you are a devout believer or a curious traveler, the church offers a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to appreciate the artistry of a bygone era. While the lack of parking and the need to avoid the monsoon season may present minor challenges, the overall experience of visiting this historical landmark is undoubtedly worth it. So, if you find yourself in the vicinity of Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj, do not miss the chance to explore this enchanting piece of history and immerse yourself in its serene charm.

This place is good, we visited this place on weekend when there was a heavy down pour of rain, but made it to this place in the evening, vibe here is very different and scary and it is also reachable by foot from Mall road dharamshala mcleodganj. One can complete the tour of this place in 10-15 min only. This place must be in your bucket list when visiting Mcleodganj

The church of the Saint John, the Baptist lies in the Himalayan cloaked mountainous state of Himachal Pradesh. Explicitly, it is located near the recently announced winter capital of the state, Dharamshala and is frequently visited by motorists or bikers as it comes on the way to McLeod Ganj. The church comes under the aegis of the Anglican Communion which is an international association of autonomous churches around the world.

A really beautiful structure in between Devdar tree forest. It was worth visiting this place

Recently, we went to McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh and visited St. John in the Wilderness. It was a beautiful experience in St. John church. All travellers can visit here as there are no kind of entry tickets. This is surrounded by jungle and trees, which gives it It's a very nice natural view. It's very near Mcleodganj bus stand.

The road & journey to this Church is so beautiful. Lush Greenery, Pine Trees & beautiful views. I can’t describe in words. St. John in the Wilderness is an Anglican Church dedicated to John the Baptist. It was built in 1852 and is located near Dharamshala, India, on the way to McLeod Ganj, at Forsyth Gunj. Whenever you’re in Dharamshala, don’t forget to visit this place.

Been visit several time, but due to covid 19 it was close, atmosphere is awesome & click some pics for memories

This church is built in the year 1852. It is one of the oldest church of North India. Built by stone. A place full of peace. There is also a beautiful view of valley from this place.

It is built in 1852, near mechlod gang. Place is really wonderful and you can see peace and natural view here. Weather is almost 15° to 23°c. In

Nice place.recenty renovation is going on.which makes it kinda odd looking with new n old structures.

Very peaceful place, on way to Mcleodganj an old church in a pleasent cool place surrounded with pine trees, a burial also, in memory of old viceroy of india but disappointed as the place was locked couldn't see the inside as i was told it's very beautiful from inside.must visit if you go to Dharamsala or Mcleodganj.

The front view is really unique with greenery around. You can spend some peaceful time here. Also suggest take a walk from mcleodganj square to this place. It's a beautiful way.

Place can be visited once but due to presence of graveyard I did not find it much appealing (very personal) and some renovations was also going in church

This is a very epic structure. The aura in this place reminds of olden days.there is a sense of calmness that can be felt once the noisy tourists leave.
Placed between beautiful long thick really old trees, this is a picturesque Church

I love this place
I feel excited when i saw the history of this church.
Good place for photography.

The church was under construction and the washroom was locked
So it was very very inconvenient

Due to Covid - Its closed for public for entry inside- still then the peacefulness and calmness outside made my visit worth it.

You'll become calm the moment you step in through the gate. This place has a certain tranquil air around it. Needless to say it being surrounded by pines, makes you feel closer to nature!
A must visit in Mcleodganj

The entry to the church was restricted due to Covid. Walked to the church for 30 mins.the walk is pretty much easy straight road.can click few photos there. Sure silent place.
Frankly it's ok if you cannot visit.

This magnificent church is built amid the picturesque valley of Mcleodganj and is located about 8 kms away from Dharamshala. The church lies in a dense jungle between Mcleodganj and Forsythganj and is a monument dedicated to Lord Elgin, one of the viceroys of India, who died at Chauntra (Mandi district) and was buried here in 1863 A. D. This classic church, which has a Christian cemetery surrounding it, has lovely glass windows and boost amazing architectural design. It is ideally situated in the majestic 'Deodar' forest in the wilderness.

Amazing Place, Quite Peaceful, Very Beautiful. A Church Situated In Area Like This Is Amazing In Itself. Must Visit Place. Fortunately When I Visit Here, At That Time Snow Was Falling So It Was Looking More Beautiful And Amazing, That Mesmerizing Moment.

It's a nice church in the middle of the forest as the name suggest. Nothing much to do here as the church was closed when we reached there (not sure if it's functional). It was a part of the Macleod Ganj siteseeing for us so we went here. There is no point going all the way to see it but if its enroute you can check it out. You would mostly spend 10-15 mins here as there is not much to do here.

I can't describe how beautiful and peaceful this place is.such a holy place.must visit place if you're around dharamshala!

Beautiful place, had been here a few times and feel blessed after the prayer. The place is great, and many devotees of different religions visit here. Location is beautiful. Truly a great place to be.

It's rainy season when I visited this place. Still it's Cleanliness, full-on greenery, insects and birds chirping, different birds and animals sound won the heart. Very quiet place. Loved it!

As the name suggests St. John in the wilderness, this Church is surrounded by greenery as it is situated in woods. It is a very beautiful place embedded with peace, calm, lush and breathtaking views. When we reached there it rained heavily that we couldn't click the picture of the church but yes, it was indeed beautiful. Trail to the main area was truly magical, believe me. There was no entry ticket for visiting.
Highly recommended place for photography!

Vintage place. Never miss while you are in McLeodgunj. Old church and surroundings are also very attractive.

A tp tourist attraction in McLeodganj which can be covered in ½hr while enroite to another place. The place does offer good photos with trees

Simply Amazing, Beautiful beyond description.it is exactly in an exotic setting. The place does complete justice to its name 'in the wilderness'. The Saint John’s church stands amidst the pine woods. So pristine. The church is located in a huge forest campus and is a grand, beautiful structure in perfect preservation. Inside the church also it is well maintained and the visitors well regulated that it feels like visiting a functional church only. The nearby graveyard is also interesting to visit. It’s must visit if you are around Dharamshala or McLeod Ganj.

I went to Church of St. John. Church of St. John in the Wilderness, built in 1852, is one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh. Located near Dharamshala and on the way to Mcleodganj, this neo-gothic church was built in dedication to John the Baptist. It is great place to go.

The graveyard a stones throw is badly kept. Each tombstone has a story, slowly being lost to weather conditions. Many deaths took place in 1863, children, 4 yrs and grown ups as well. Bear attacks etc, are all etched on the tombstones. Will be erased with time. The church however has been maintained somewhat. The knave is intact, as is the belfry, though it has no bell. There is some bit of stained glass and a sanctum sanctorum. Definitely worth a visit