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St. Theresa Catholic Church

  • 4.7

    Location: Kalimpong Khasmahal, Kalimpong, West Bengal 734301, India.

    Estimated Visiting Time: 2 hours

    Local artisans are believed to have constructed the old St. Theresa Catholic Church. This church shares the same appearance as the monasteries. The layout of the chapel offers a unique glimpse into Tibetan architectural style. The cathedral walls are covered with inscriptions and murals depicting biblical themes and scenes with biblical figures comparable to Buddhist monks. The chapel’s location provides a lovely view of the distant Himalayan mountains. This church’s spiritual atmosphere attracts many followers, and some people can be seen entering the building. Because of its significance in terms of religion, it could be particularly distinctive for those who belong to the Christian network. People travel around the area to pray and get divine blessings right here.

    Attraction

    While discussing its allure and alluring attributes, we must remember that it was built in the Buddhist Gompa style of architecture, the first and most important thing that comes to mind. Additionally, the wood carvings resemble Buddhist monk figures. In a single sentence, the Buddhist culture had a significant influence on the building style. This church is thought to have only been constructed by locals. Along with the Church, this location offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered Himalayan Mountains!

    History

    At the end of the Bhutan War and as a requirement of the Treaty of Sinchula, Bhutan gave the property that would become Bhutan House to the British East India Company in India in 1865. In 1916, the area was divided from Darjeeling, West Bengal, and became a hill resort. Sir Charles Alfred Bell, a Tibetologist and political officer in Sikkim, engaged Bhutan in 1910. He signed the Treaty of Punakha and other agreements, which gave the British control over land in Motithang (Thimphu), a hill station between Chukha and Thimphu, a portion of Kalimpong, and a doubling of the British government’s annual subsidy to Bhutan. According to rumors, the Dorjis built Bhutan House specifically to house the Thirteenth Dalai Lama. On his way back from a pilgrimage to Bodh Gaya, Chogley Yeshey Ngodrup dedicated the grounds. The Dorji family became prominent thanks to its connections to the Wangchuck clan.

    St. Theresa Catholic Church

    Inside/Outside Views

    In this Church, there is something of a cross between a church and a temple. The external paintings are particularly fascinating; someone from a Buddhist background sees the life of Christ. It seems remarkable that someone constructed it in the manner of Tibetan architecture. Unique paintings and Bible verse inscriptions decorate the walls. The stage, or the eight emblems of Buddhism, are depicted on the doors of this chapel. From this cathedral, one can overlook the stunning mountain ranges. A church that accurately represents Himalayan art and architecture is the St. Theresa Catholic Church in Kalimpong. The campus can be toured by visitors, who are welcome to do so. Several guests also pack picnic meals to add to the joy and excitement of their vacation.

    St. Theresa Catholic Church

    Opening Hours

    Opening Hours: Everyday 7 am – 8 pm

    Entry & Others Fees

    Entry & Others fee: There is no entry fee. Church is open for everyone

    How to Reach

    By Bus: Tista Bazar Bus Stop and Kalimpong Bus Station are the closest bus stops to this church. 

    By Air: The closest airport is Bagdogra International Airport, located 70 kilometers from Kalimpong. Good connectivity between Bagdogra and important Indian cities is provided by numerous domestic airlines.

    By Rail: New Jalpaiguri is the railhead that is closest to Kalimpong. Numerous taxis and buses go to Kalimpong. From New Jalpaiguri, it takes around 2.5 hours to get to Kalimpong.

    Tips for Travellers

    • Dress modestly. 
    • Follow the rules of the Church. 
    • Arrive timely before mass.
    • Pets are not allowed.

    FAQ

    Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

    Ans: Yes, absolutely safe.

    Que-02: Is photography allowed inside the Church ?

    Ans: Yes, photography is allowed. 

    We wish you all the best for your journey. Happy Travel!!!

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