Also known as Skinner's Church after the British Colonel James Skinner, who commissioned it, St. James’ Church is an excellent example of Palladian architecture. Design elements of this pale-yellow structure include a cruciform plan, porticoed porches, and a big octagonal dome. It also contains a number of beautiful stained-glass windows brought in from Europe, plus art by Italian painter Pompeo Girolamo Batoni.
While it’s not the most popular Delhi attraction, some tours focusing on Raj-era history or spirituality stop by the church. You can also arrange to visit via a private tour.
Remember to dress conservatively; dresses or trousers and shirts covering the shoulders are preferable to tank tops and shorts.
Services are held every Sunday at 8:30am (from Easter through September) or 9am (from October 1 through Easter).
The church’s non-service opening hours vary, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or go with an organized tour.
St. James’ Church is in Old Delhi, just north of Chandni Chowk. It's a 5-minute walk from Kashmiri Gate, Old Delhi's main long-distance bus depot. The Yellow, Red, and Violet lines of the Delhi Metro also stop here. For travelers coming by car, it's about a 15-minute drive to Connaught Place, New Delhi's de facto city center.
The church is open throughout the year, and the interiors are relatively cool, making it a good place to visit even during the hot season. Coming on a Sunday morning for service is the best way to get the full experience. There are also services and other events throughout the year; check the church’s website for the liturgical calendar.
James Skinner first decided to build St. James’ Church after lying wounded on a battlefield at Uniara, facing the potential of his death. According to legend, Skinner made a promise to God that if he survived, he would build a church. Today, Skinner's remains are interred in the church, with a gravestone just by the altar.
