Introduction

A weathered church dating back to 1844, St. John in the Wilderness is located in Mallital, the Northern end of Lake Naini. One of the oldest buildings in the region, the church is known for its stained glass windows, and is one of the few remnants of British architectural heritage.

It was christened St John in the Wilderness by a bishop from Calcutta, Reverend Daniel Wilson, who specially visited the place to lay the church’s foundation stone. As per historical records, the bishop had to stay on for the night in one of the half-complete houses as he fell ill in the middle of this wilderness, where leopards and tigers roamed freely.

The church has a memorial commemorating the victims of the 1880 landslide in Nainital that killed over 150 people and created the Flatts. Many of the landslide victims lay buried in the cemetery behind the church.

Special Attributes

Though weathered, this Victorian structure is still beautiful with its stained glass windows.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Taxis, Cycle Rickshaws

Enjoyed by

History and Architecture Lovers

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The church is beautifully decked during Christmas and New Years.

Type of site

Place of worship/Church