10 Top Churches in Delhi: List of best Churches in Delhi
Delhi has been the State capital for thousands of years for different governments and hence is a perfect blend of the ancient and the modern. Be it art, architecture, history or culture, the influence of various nations can be perceived in almost everything that Delhi holds. The place boasts of some of the oldest and extraordinarily beautiful churches in India. Delhi has a lot to offer to a hungry traveler- adventure, history, modern art, food and more. Make sure you find a spiritual rejuvenation too when you are in town the next time. Besides, all the areas in Delhi are well connected by metro and backed by a strong conveyance network which makes it easier for you to reach the churches easily and conveniently.
Why Go There? Spiritual reawakening| Gothic/ Italian/ Renaissance/ Baroque Architecture
Ideal For: Family trips| Solo Trips| Spiritual quest
Trivia: Christianity in Delhi dates back not to the colonial times but to the Mughal era. The Great Emperor Akbar was a secular theologian and invited Christian priests to his court. Owing to this amalgamation of culture, a few churches in Delhi are influenced by the Mughal style of architecture.
Things to bring back: Madhubani paintings | Pashmina shawls | Traditional silver jewellery | Dibbis
Churches in Delhi: List of 10 Amazing Churches in Delhi
| Name of the Church | Address |
| 1. Sacred Heart Cathedral | Bhai Vir Singh Marg Road, Connaught Place |
| 2. Saint James Church | Church Road, Mori Gate |
| 3. Cathedral Church of the Redemption | Raisina Hills, Church Road |
| 4. Central Baptist Church | Chandni Chowk |
| 5. Saint Stephen’s Church | Khari Baoli, Chandni Chowk |
| 6. Saint Thomas’ Church | Mall Road, R K Puram |
| 7. Green Park Free Church | Green Park, Aurobindo Marg |
| 8. Saint Francis of Assisi Forane Church | Dilshad Garden |
| 9. Indian Pentecostal Church of God | Green Park, Gautam Nagar |
| 10. Saint Luke’s Church | Defence Colony, New Delhi |
Churches in Delhi: Complete Guide to the 10 Best Churches in Delhi
1. Sacred Heart Cathedral
The Sacred Heart Cathedral is a Latin Rite church that belongs to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Delhi. The foundation of the church was laid in the year 1930 and is one of the oldest and largest churches in Delhi by land area. The cathedral has been designed on Italian architectural style by the famous British architect Henry Medd. The monumental canopy of the church is supported by a wide facade of white pillars and circular arcade turrets that rise above the roof from both sides of the porch. Polished stone adorns the floorings of the church and a large fresco painting that portrays ‘The Last Supper’ behind the marble altar makes it look outstanding.
Distance from the Rajiv Chowk: 2 kilometers
Things to do at the Sacred Heart Cathedral: Bask in the divine and spiritual aura that the place exudes. Additionally, you can participate in the revelry during Christmas or Easter. You can also attend the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth or be a part of the Christmas Vigil Service on Christmas Eve. You can offer candles and prayers on Christmas and relish the Christmas feel with coffee and cake.
2. Saint James Church
Skinner’s church as it is fondly called is an Anglican Church built in the year 1836 and is located near Kashmiri Gate. The church was established by Colonel James Skinner and today forms a part of the Church of the North India Diocese. It is one of those ancient gems located amidst the bustle of the modern city that cannot go unnoticed. The octagonal dome of the church has been modeled on the Florence Cathedral of Italy. The design of the church shows the influence of the Renaissance Revival style. The church has high stained-glass windows and is adorned with three porch porticos. The church cemetery also houses the mortal remains of many famous people like Colonel James Skinner, William Fraser and many of his family members.
Distance from the Kashmere Gate: 1.3 kilometers
Things to do at the Saint James Church: Watch the beautiful relics that the church houses. Make sure to see ‘The Prodigal Son’ painting by Pompeo Batoni, a famous Italian artist. Watch the intricate detailing of the European style stained glass windows that depict scenes like Christ’s ascension, crucifixion, and resurrection.
3. Cathedral Church of the Redemption
Standing in its ancient glory in Raisina Hills near Rashtrapati Bhavan is the Cathedral Church of the Redemption. The church was founded in the 1900s and today is a part of the Church of North India (CNI) Diocese. The high arches and gracefully curved domes of the church were the brainchild of the renowned architect Henry Medd. The structural design of the church allows the interiors to remain cool even during the scorching summer heat.
Distance from the Rajiv Chowk/ Central Secretariat: approx 3.3 kilometers
Things to do at the Cathedral Church of the Redemption: Get awed by the splendid architecture and the divine ambiance of the church. Participate in the annual garden fete of the church and share the spirit of brotherhood, gaiety and togetherness.
4. Central Baptist Church
Built in the European style of architecture, the Central Baptist Church is located in the bustling Chandni Chowk. It is one of the oldest churches in Delhi and probably the oldest Christian Mission whose foundation was laid in the year 1814. The European architecture of the place is striking for its beauty and magnificence. Deep colonnaded porches along with circular pillars adorn the exterior of the church. The interior of the church is embellished with ornate carvings and motifs. Memorial tablets also add to the charm of the church remembering those who devoted their lives in the service of God.
Distance from the Chandni Chowk: 1.1 kilometers
Things to do at the Central Baptist Church: Watch the intricacies of the European architecture of the bygone era in the interior plinths of the church. If you are a spiritual person, experience the sense of spiritual awakening and rejuvenation in this place.
5. Saint Stephen’s Church
Saint Stephen’s Church is one of the most monumental churches in Delhi that was established in the year 1862 by the DPW Engineers and Anglican missionaries. The church functions under the Church of North India Diocese (CNI). The church has been built in the Italian Gothic architectural style and shows streaks of a baroque style in a few places. High windows with stained glass rose are arched and brighten the interiors as sunlight passes through them. The interesting fact is that these windows are exclusive only to the churches of Delhi. The walls and ceilings of the church are adorned with exquisite motifs, paintings, carvings, and pictures. The pillars are made of plastered sandstone and have intricate carvings on them.
Distance from the Chandni Chowk: 1.4 kilometers
Things to do at the Saint Stephen’s Church: Have a visual experience of the Italian Gothic style of architecture that was followed in the church’s design. Also, see the high stained glass rose windows that brighten the sunlight manifold to illumine the entire church in colourful hues.
6. Saint Thomas’ Church
Saint Thomas’ Church is one of the most prominent churches in Delhi that is flocked by locals and tourist alike. It was founded in the year 1972 and is dedicated to Saint Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus Christ. The architecture of the church, although contemporary, is heavily influenced by Mughal architectural style. The building itself is made of red sandstone. The sublime church building sits amidst lush green gardens in the heart of R K Puram in South Delhi. The church has an exquisite ceiling and a beautiful altar. The grottos in the garden with the statue of Mother Mary and other saints are other spectacular things to see.
Distance from R K. Puram: 2.2 kilometers
Things to do at the Saint Thomas’ Church: Experience the serenity and calm that the place and the church bring upon the soul. Visit the church during Easter Vigil or Christmas Vigil and be a part of the prayer service and the celebrations that follow. Attend a morning mass for a spiritual boost.
7. Green Park Free Church
Green Park Free Church is a simple yet elegant church located on Sri Aurobindo Marg in Delhi. The church forms a part of the Diocese of Church of North India (CNI) who oversees the control and administration of the church. The church strongly believes that the path of mankind can lead to the path to God and hence believes in service to humanity. The church sees thousands of devotees every year. The worshippers too seek to spread compassion and kindness to their family, friends and fellow beings.
Distance from Green Park: 1 kilometer
Things to do at the Green Park Free Church: Soak in the tranquillity and serenity that the church exudes. Also offer candles, flowers, and prayers at the altar. Alternatively, visit the church during Christmas and enjoy the communal harmony and celebration with fellow worshippers.
8. Saint Francis of Assisi Forane Church
Saint Francis of Assisi Forane Church is the biggest church of the Church of North India (CNI) and comes under the administration and management of the Faridabad Eparchy diocese. The monumental church has a cream white exterior with a wide facade and large windows. The interior of the church is decorated in minimalistic style with simple motifs and pictures. The depiction of Mother Mary and the statue in the grotto are other beautiful additions to the church’s beauty. A tiny spiral staircase that winds resides next to the belfry, taking one to the balcony which gives an unbroken view of the surroundings.
Distance from Dilshad Garden: 1 kilometer
Things to do at the Saint Francis of Assisi Forane Church: The church is quiet and peaceful and does not see many visitors on weekdays. You can take your time to stroll around the garden and the church basking in its peaceful environment. If you are on the lookout for nirvana, then this is your place to be.
9. Indian Pentecostal Church of God
The Indian Pentecostal Church of God was founded in the year 1969 in Delhi and although a new addition, this church is one of the most beautiful churches in the capital state. It is the largest Pentecostal denomination church in India. The Church is located at Gautam Nagar. The ambiance of the church is light, serene and tranquil.
Distance from Connaught Place: 1.7 kilometers
Things to do at the Indian Pentecostal Church of God: Be a part of the annual convention of the church and bask in the spirit of fraternity and compassion. Enjoy the tranquil aura of the place. Sit for some quietude and peace inside the church or for spiritual grace.
10. Saint Luke’s Church
Saint Luke’s Church is a contemporary church that was founded in the year 1979 and is located at a prime location in Defence Colony, New Delhi. It is under the Roman Catholic denomination and the parish has many institutions and religious houses under its supervision. The daily mass of the church is conducted in three languages- viz- English, Hindi and Malayalam. The Archdiocese of Delhi is responsible for the management and administration of the church.
Distance from Defence Colony: 800 metres
Things to do at Saint Luke’s Church: take in the divine grace and peace that this church and the church surroundings exude. Visit the church during Christmas or Easter Vigil or attend a mass to learn the word of God. You can alternatively visit the social centre for community service that the parish runs.
Enlisted above are 10 of the best churches in Delhi. While some are ancient and magnanimous, others are contemporary and simplistic. But all the churches have a divine aura and radiate sacred and peaceful vibes. Whether you are a tourist or a traveler, a worshipper or a pilgrim, visit the churches at least once to experience divinity first hand.
