St Andrew's Church
Kolkata's oldest Scottish church, a stunning Greco-classical landmark with serene Gothic interiors, offering a peaceful escape into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St Andrew's Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kolkata's oldest Scottish church, a stunning Greco-classical landmark with serene Gothic interiors, offering a peaceful escape into history.
"A serene reminder of the city’s colonial past, this beautiful church is a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts."
🎯 Metro is Key
Mahakaran Metro station (Green Line) is super close! Makes getting to St. Andrew's a breeze. :train2:
🤫 Quiet Hours
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience, away from Sunday crowds. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tall White Spire
Exterior
A striking Greco-classical landmark, its elegant spire dominates the Kolkata skyline.
Gothic-Style Interiors
Interior
Discover intricate stained-glass windows and a serene ambiance within the 'Kirk'.
Colonial Heritage
Surrounding Area
Nestled among historic buildings like Writer's Building, it's a tangible link to Kolkata's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Metro is Key
Mahakaran Metro station (Green Line) is super close! Makes getting to St. Andrew's a breeze. :train2:
🤫 Quiet Hours
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience, away from Sunday crowds. :pray:
📸 Architectural Gem
Don't miss the stunning Greco-classical design and Gothic interiors. Perfect for photos! :camera:
🕰️ Office Hours
Church office is open 10 AM-2 PM daily except Mondays & holidays. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Metro is Key
Mahakaran Metro station (Green Line) is super close! Makes getting to St. Andrew's a breeze. :train2:
🤫 Quiet Hours
Visit on a weekday for a truly serene experience, away from Sunday crowds. :pray:
📸 Architectural Gem
Don't miss the stunning Greco-classical design and Gothic interiors. Perfect for photos! :camera:
🕰️ Office Hours
Church office is open 10 AM-2 PM daily except Mondays & holidays. Plan accordingly! :clock1:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Andrew's Church is lauded as a beautiful and iconic landmark in Kolkata, praised for its striking Greco-classical architecture and serene Gothic interiors. Visitors appreciate its historical significance as the oldest Scottish church and its easy accessibility via metro. It's considered a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city's hustle and a must-visit for heritage and architecture enthusiasts.
"St. Andrew’s Church is one of the most beautiful and iconic churches in Kolkata. Built in 1818, its tall white spire and elegant Greco-classical design make it a striking landmark in the BBD Bagh area. Located right opposite Mahakaran Metro, it is easily accessible from both Kolkata and Howrah by bus, train, or even ferry. The nearest railway station is BBD Bagh (situated on the KCR line). Surrounded by historic buildings like the Writer’s Building, Kolkata Police Headquarters, Tea Board, and the Regional Passport Office, the church stands as a serene reminder of the city’s colonial past. If you love exploring Kolkata’s heritage or have an eye for classical architecture, this place is definitely worth a visit."
Rudra Pratap Yadav
"The oldest Scottish church of Kolkata. Easily accessible by both metro (Green Line, Station Mahakaran, less than 5 mins walk) and bus routes. the nearest railway station is BBDBag under Circular Railway.
Services are offered every Sunday at 9:30 am and church office remains open from 10am to 2pm every day except Mondays and Public Holidays.
Before the church was constructed there was a court at this location and hence the road adjacent to the church is still called "old court house street"."
Soumyo Chatterjee
"St. Andrew’s Church, Kolkata, built in 1818, is a fine example of Scottish Presbyterian architecture. Located near Writer’s Building, its tall steeple and white facade add charm to the city’s colonial skyline. Known as the "Kirk," the church boasts Gothic-style interiors, intricate stained-glass windows, and a serene ambiance. It reflects Kolkata's Scottish heritage and continues to serve as a place of worship and historical significance. Visitors are drawn to its unique architecture and the peaceful atmosphere it offers, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts exploring the city."
Ms. Disha Das
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Andrew's Church is very accessible. The nearest metro station is Mahakaran on the Green Line, just a 5-minute walk away. If you're coming by train, BBD Bagh is the closest railway station on the Circular Railway. Numerous bus routes also serve the area.
Yes, it's located in a prominent area opposite Mahakaran Metro and near historic buildings like the Writer's Building, making it easy to spot.
While not the primary mode, the proximity to the Hooghly River means ferry services to nearby ghats are an option, followed by a short walk or taxi ride.
From Howrah, you can take a bus or a taxi directly to the BBD Bagh area. Alternatively, you can cross the Howrah Bridge and then take the metro from Esplanade station to Mahakaran.
Parking can be challenging in this busy central Kolkata area. It's advisable to use public transport like the metro or buses to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to St. Andrew's Church is generally free. It's a place of worship and historical significance open to visitors.
The church is typically open for visitors outside of service times. The church office operates from 10 AM to 2 PM daily, except on Mondays and public holidays.
Sunday services are held at 9:30 AM. Visitors are welcome to attend and experience the active worship.
There is no admission fee to enter St. Andrew's Church. Donations are always welcome to support its upkeep.
Special events or concerts might have specific timings or require tickets. It's best to check with the church administration or their official channels for any upcoming events.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside St. Andrew's Church, especially for its beautiful interiors and stained-glass windows. However, it's always respectful to avoid flash photography during services.
The tall white spire from the outside and the Gothic-style interiors with stained-glass windows are prime photo opportunities. The surrounding colonial architecture also offers great shots.
While generally allowed, it's courteous to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography, especially during services.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly permitted.
A camera with good low-light performance is ideal for the interiors. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the architecture.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
St. Andrew's Church in Kolkata was built in 1818, making it one of the city's historic landmarks.
It's a fine example of Scottish Presbyterian architecture, featuring a striking Greco-classical design on the exterior and Gothic-style interiors.
It's the oldest Scottish church in Kolkata and reflects the city's colonial past and Scottish heritage. The area was historically a court location, hence 'Old Court House Street'.
'Kirk' is a Scottish term for church, and St. Andrew's is often referred to as 'The Kirk' due to its Scottish Presbyterian origins.
Yes, the church boasts intricate stained-glass windows and a serene ambiance, contributing to its historical and architectural appeal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to ensure a more peaceful experience for younger ones. The metro access makes it an easy addition to a day of sightseeing, especially if combined with nearby historical sites like the Writer's Building. Keep the visit brief and focus on the visual aspects like the tall spire and colorful windows to maintain their interest.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Explore the details of its construction, the significance of its location in the BBD Bagh area, and its role in the city's historical narrative. The church's serene atmosphere provides an ideal setting for contemplation and appreciation of its enduring legacy.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Kolkata's Scottish Heritage
Beyond its religious function, the church is a historical landmark situated in the heart of the BBD Bagh area, surrounded by other colonial-era buildings like the Writer's Building and the Kolkata Police Headquarters. This strategic location underscores its importance in the administrative and social fabric of colonial Kolkata. The street adjacent to the church, 'Old Court House Street,' hints at the site's prior use, adding another layer to its historical narrative.
For visitors interested in Kolkata's heritage, St. Andrew's Church offers a tangible connection to its multicultural history. It serves as a peaceful sanctuary and a reminder of the diverse communities that shaped the city. Exploring the church provides insight into the architectural styles and the enduring legacy of Scottish influence in India.
Architectural Marvels
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the serene ambiance of its Gothic-style interiors. The intricate stained-glass windows are a particular highlight, casting colorful patterns of light that enhance the spiritual atmosphere. These windows, along with the overall layout, contribute to the church's reputation as a place of both architectural beauty and profound peace.
The church's design not only appeals to architecture enthusiasts but also offers a visually rich experience for all visitors. Its well-preserved state allows a glimpse into the craftsmanship of the past, making it a must-see for anyone appreciating historical buildings and their aesthetic qualities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit