A serene sanctuary amidst the hills

In the dreamy mountains of Lansdowne lies a sacred sanctuary that beckons the spiritually inclined and travellers alike.

Walking along the winding mountain paths of Lansdowne towards the famed Tip N Top point, you will see a magnificent neo-Gothic structure gradually emerge from the verdant folds.

A few moments later, you're in front of the stunning St. Mary's Church—and what a sight it is!

With the breathtaking views of undulating hills and plunging valleys in the backdrop, you can see the masterful fusion of colonial and traditional design sensibilities that has withstood the ravages of time. As your eyes trace the church's majestic facade, they are instantly arrested by the soaring bell tower and spire, which seem to pierce the very heavens. Intricate carvings adorn the walls, each motif a painstaking labour of love etched into sturdy stone. The grand arched entryways beckon you inside, where the true magnificence of St. Mary's is revealed.

The lofty vaulted ceilings soar overhead, bathing the sanctuary in a warm, ethereal glow courtesy of the exquisite stained glass windows. These works of divine artisanship depict vivid religious scenes in kaleidoscopic hues, casting patterns of colourful light that dance across the polished floors and lovingly crafted altars and sculptures. Every architectural detail, from the gracefully fluted columns to the ornately carved screens, has been executed impeccably.

The credits for this marvel go to Col. A.B.H. Hume of the Royal Engineers, who built this place in 1895. Even though the church was closed after 1947, it was turned into a museum by the Garhwal Rifles Regimental Centre, which is how you can experience it.