Christ Church & St. Michael's Cathedral, Shimla

  The most prominent building on the Mall is the yellow Christ Church, reputed to be the second oldest church in northern India. The silhouette of this can be seen on the skyline for miles around. It was designed by Colonel JT Boileau in 1844, but consecrated only after 1857. The clock was donated by Colonel Dumbleton in 1860, and the porch added in 1873.

In Shimla's 75 years of reigning as summer capital, a long line of officials and other notables of the Raj came to the church for their Sunday prayers. The seasonal influx would be so great at times that space would pose a big problem. Now, of course, the congregations have dwindled and there is no lack of space.

It still has those lovely stained glass windows for which it is so famed. Check out the one that represents the virtues of Faith, Hope, Charity, Fortitude, Patience and Humility. But around the chancel window used to be a beautiful fresco designed by Rudyard Kipling's father, Lockwood Kipling, who was the principal of Mayo School of Art in Lahore. But nothing of it remains today. Note the interesting brasses and plaques too that are present over here.

One can discreetly have a look inside the church, or attend English-language services every Sunday during the tourist season. The other main church in Shimla is St Michael's Cathedral just below the Central Telegraph Office.