St Paul's Church, Kandy — Attraction in Central Province

Nestled in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s picturesque "Hill Capital," St. Paul’s Church stands as a testament to the island's rich colonial history and religious diversity. Sharing a boundary with the revered Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), this historic church adds a unique dimension to the spiritual landscape of Kandy.

The inception of St. Paul’s Church dates back to 1825, sparked by the visit of the second Bishop of Calcutta, the Rt. Rev. Reginald Heber. This visionary visit set the stage for the church's construction, which began in 1843. The cornerstone was laid on the 16th of March, 1843, by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Spencer, the Bishop of Madras (now Chennai). Although still under construction, the church opened its doors for worship in 1846, providing a sanctuary for the local community and British regiments, notably the 15th and 37th Regiments.

The church was formally consecrated on St. Paul’s Day, 25th January, 1853, by the first Bishop of Colombo, the Rt. Rev. James Chapman, and was aptly named “St. Paul’s.” The building itself, constructed entirely of terracotta brick, exudes a timeless elegance that has endured for generations.

One of the most striking features of St. Paul’s Church is its magnificent stained glass window, a gift from the widow of Laurence St. George Carey, a tea planter on Le Vallon Estate, Pupuressa, in 1874. This exquisite window, depicting the Crucifixion, the Ascension, the Angel in the Tomb, and the Nativity, was erected above the High Altar, enhancing the church's beauty and spiritual ambiance.

Another notable aspect of St. Paul’s Church is its historic pipe organ, which significantly enriched the quality of worship for over 125 years. Despite experiencing frequent breakdowns and a period of silence, the lower keyboard was diligently restored, allowing the organ to play until it was ultimately replaced in 2009.

St. Paul’s Church is not just a place of worship but a living museum of history, art, and architecture. Its intricate stained glass windows, robust terracotta brick structure, and the resonant tones of its once-majestic pipe organ collectively tell the story of a bygone era. Visitors to Kandy will find that a visit to St. Paul’s Church offers a profound connection to Sri Lanka's colonial past and a deeper appreciation for its cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, St. Paul’s Church is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a...

I used to attend St Paul's, in 1964-66, when I worked at then University of Ceylon, Peradeniya Campus. Then my father and my elder sister's family moved to Kandy. They attended St Paul's and my sister still attends, St Paul's. My father (G.S.Peter) served as a Treasurer for a long time and when he retired my B.I.L. (Michael Fernando) took over from him. My sister (Pushpa Fernando) served in the Mothers Union for a long time. My sister still lives in Kandy and attends St. Paul's. Please remember all of them in your prayers and please stop by and say a Prayer at St.Paul's. I live in USA now; but the memory of that beautiful Church, the Peace and a place to kneel down and say a prayer in the busy City still lingers in my soul. Please, stop by and Pray for your self and for all who visits and attendants this beautiful place of worship. The peace and serenity of this magnificent place will touch your soul to remember St. Paul's for a life...

St. Paul's Church located in Kandy is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that showcases the rich history and cultural significance of Sri Lanka. As a college student, my visit to this historical landmark left me in awe of its intricate design and mesmerizing aura. The church, adorned with exquisite stained glass windows and ornate woodwork, exudes a sense of serenity and peace. The knowledgeable tour guide's explanations enhanced my understanding of the church's importance in the religious landscape of Kandy. Furthermore, the church's location amidst the lush greenery of the city adds to its tranquil ambiance, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Undoubtedly, St. Paul's Church in Kandy is an outstanding testament to the enduring beauty of religious architecture and an experience I...