+91 9783240000 
Read More on St. Stephen's Church
History
The history of the St. Stephen's Church dates back to the 19th century when it was built by the British Government. The foundation of the church was laid down by Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras, on April 23, 1829. The construction was carried out by Captain John James Underwood who ensured that only high-quality wood was used for the building of the St Stephen's Church. The construction of the main beam and all the timber required for the same were taken from Tipu Sultan's palace after the British had defeated him in the Mysore War. The Church was open to the public on 3 April 1831.
Architecture
The church is not just a place of worship but also a true architectural marvel. The Church is a symbol of India’s colonial past and the architecture exudes the British style. The Gothic architecture of the church is worth mentioning. The church was built at a total expense of INR 24,000 which is a tremendous amount at those times.
The architecture of the church boasts wooden architecture and a grand painting of the Last Supper. Pretty stained glass windows that portray various scenes, such as the crucifixion of Christ and the image of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus in her arms.
Activities
St Stephen’s Church is located off the road to Mysore in Ooty. It is a cultural heritage, and visitors can soak in the beauty in any of the following ways -
- Take some time to offer your prayers to Jesus Christ.
- Take a stroll around the Church to witness its architectural brilliance.
- Capture photos of the paintings and architecture.
- Visit the nearby restaurants to grab a bite.
Tips for visiting
- Try visiting the church in December, for it is the liveliest, with people exchanging greetings, singing carols, and offering prayers.
- The Church has located just 2 km from the city center, so visitors can take a walk to the church.
- Visitors must maintain silence inside the church and respect the traditions followed.
Best time to visit
Although the city is a year-round destination, if you want to have a thrilling mountain experience, head to this queen of hills from October to June. If you plan to visit the church, do it in December for it is the liveliest then with people exchanging greetings and singing carols.
Nearby Atractions
- Government Rose Garden
- Government Botanical Garden
- Thunder World
- Tiger Hill
- Ooty Viewpoint
Nearby market/ shopping places
Visitors can explore the following markets/shopping places on their visit to Ooty-
- Cherise Mall- Located at a distance of 900 meters from the Church, this mall houses a range of beauty, personal care, and cosmetic products stores.
- PSR Shopping Center and Restaurant- Located at a distance of 900 meters away from the Church, this shopping center has a range of products at affordable prices, and a restaurant to satisfy your taste buds.
- Tibetan Market- Located at a distance of 1.3 km away from the church, this market is famous for selling fashion items, clothes, and much more at affordable prices.
Nearby Hotels
- Beverly villa Ooty
- Gem Park Ooty
- Sterling Ooty Elk Hill
- Savoy, Ooty - IHCL SeleQtions
- Sinclairs Retreat Ooty
Interesting Facts About St. Stephen's Church
- The Church was established in the 19th century by the British Government.
- The foundation of the church was laid down by Stephen Rumbold Lushington, the then Governor of Madras, on April 23, 1829.
- The construction was carried out by Captain John James Underwood who ensured that only high-quality wood was used for the building of the St Stephen's Church.
- The wood for construction was used from Tipu Sultans’s palace after he was defeated in the Mysore war.
