Introduction

Held high by stone revetments and shaded by cedars and huge horse-chestnut trees, at Kasauli’s main crossroads stands Christ Church. This stately nineteenth century structure was church of the Anglican Communion and is now under the Church of North India. This has a cruciform floor plan and the stained glass windows over the altar depict the Crucifixion where the image of Christ is flanked by those of Joseph and Mary. This was opened for divine service on 24 July 1853 by the Chaplain Thomas John Edward Steel M.A., St. John’s College, Cambridge at Evensong. The church was consecrated on 8 January 1857 by Authority of the Bishop of Calcutta.

When the town was getting under way in the nineteenth century, the Viceroy of India, Sir John Lawrence – who was known for his directness – visited the church where a great deal of money had been spent, and in his opinion wasted on the steeple. He was asked to subscribe to it. There were still no pews, and as blunt as ever he remarked, “You might as well ask me to subscribe to get a man a hat when he has no breeches.”

There are several memorial plaques in the church and one that has bearing on the town’s location amidst pine forests reads:

SELBY LORIMER CASSEL LANE and RICHARD LAURENCE ARUNDEL REED. To the Glory of God and in cherished memory of Selby Lorimer Cassel Lane. Born 10th October 1901. Died 7th June 1935. And Richard Laurence Arundel Reed. Born 8th May 1904. Died 24th June 1935. Ist Bn. the 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment who gave their lives fighting a forest fire, which on 7th June threatened to destroy Kasauli.
This memorial is erected by Marion, wife of Captain Lane
By Percy Dawson Reed, father of Captain Reed.
By all ranks Ist Bn. the 22nd (Cheshire) Regiment And by the residents of Kasauli.

Special Attributes

Historic church.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Conservative

Connectivity

Taxis and walking

Enjoyed by

Architecture, religion and general interest.

Exposure

None indoors

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Restaurants, shops and parking close by

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The church is often closed; inquire before visiting.

Type of site

Church