Nestled in the cool mist of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, a collection of charming, historic churches (Hill Country Churches) whisper stories of a colonial past. Among them, the Warleigh Church in Dickoya stands as a quiet, enduring reminder of a bygone era — an era of tea planters, British architecture, and a deep-rooted spiritual heritage.
While many travelers rush to the hill country for its lush tea estates and cool climate, few explore the serene beauty of its old churches. These timeless structures, often surrounded by rolling hills and tea gardens, offer visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s layered history and cultural tapestry.
This article takes you on a gentle journey through Warleigh Church and a few other significant hill country churches that are part of Sri Lanka’s lesser-told story.
Warleigh Church, Dickoya
Tucked away beside the glistening Castlereagh Reservoir, Warleigh Church is perhaps one of the most picturesque churches in Sri Lanka.
Built in 1878 by William Scott, a British tea planter, the church is named after Scott’s hometown of Warleigh in England. Crafted in typical English Gothic Revival style, the small stone church, with its pointed arch windows, wooden pews, and weathered stone walls, exudes a quiet, haunting charm.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Original 19th-century wooden pews.
- An ancient Bible dating back over a century.
- Stained glass windows that color the morning light in warm hues.
The well-kept graveyard beside the church, where many British planters are buried, tells its own poignant tales. The location itself — overlooking still waters and emerald hills — makes a visit to Warleigh Church feel like stepping back in time.
Tip for visitors:
Early mornings are magical here, when mist hangs over the reservoir and the silence is broken only by the sound of birdsong.
St. Andrew’s Church, Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is home to St. Andrew’s Church, another significant colonial-era structure. Established in 1845, it’s one of the oldest Anglican churches in Sri Lanka.
The architecture features:
- Grey stone masonry.
- Tall, arched windows.
- A charming, sloping roof reminiscent of old English countryside churches.
Inside, the sanctuary holds beautiful stained glass windows and hand-crafted wooden interiors. The graveyard here is also historic, containing tombstones of many colonial families and soldiers.
Did you know?
Many of the graves here bear inscriptions that speak of the hardships faced by early British settlers, particularly during harsh winters and tropical diseases.
Visiting Tip:
St. Andrew’s Church is still active today and often holds English-language services. Visitors are welcome to attend.
Holy Trinity Church, Nuwara Eliya
Just a few minutes away from the town center of Nuwara Eliya stands Holy Trinity Church, a red-brick building completed in 1852.
What makes Holy Trinity Church special?
- Queen Elizabeth II worshipped here during her visit to Sri Lanka in 1954.
- The church houses a beautiful pipe organ brought all the way from England.
- The original registers inside still record baptisms, marriages, and deaths of colonial-era settlers.
The peaceful churchyard is lined with roses and old trees, adding to its nostalgic charm.
Tip:
Visit during Christmas if you can. The church’s celebrations combine Sri Lankan warmth with traditional British Christmas customs — a unique experience.
Christ Church, Bandarawela
Christ Church in Bandarawela, established in 1903, is another beautiful Anglican church shaped by colonial influences.
Unlike the stone structures of Nuwara Eliya, Christ Church is simpler but equally captivating.
It features:
- High wooden ceilings.
- Plain glass windows.
- A serene, rustic atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection.
The churchyard offers wide views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.
Historical Note:
The church was built during a time when Bandarawela became a favored health retreat for British planters seeking relief from the heat of Colombo.
St. Paul’s Church, Kandy (Hill Country Gateway)
While not deep in the central hills, St. Paul’s Church in Kandy often acts as the starting point for many journeys into the hill country.
Built between 1843 and 1852, just beside the Temple of the Tooth Relic, this Anglican church holds great historical significance.
Features include:
- Impressive Gothic Revival architecture.
- A massive pipe organ (one of the oldest in Sri Lanka).
- Exquisite stained glass donated by Queen Victoria.
The church’s history is deeply interwoven with the last days of the Kandyan Kingdom and the early years of British rule. It’s a beautiful reminder of Kandy’s role as a meeting point of Eastern and Western cultures.
Why Visit Hill Country Churches?
You might wonder: with waterfalls, tea trails, and epic mountain views, why should a traveler spend time visiting these churches?
Here’s why:
- Historical Insight:
These churches offer a unique window into Sri Lanka’s colonial era beyond the grander narratives of forts and plantations. - Architectural Beauty:
From simple stone chapels to grand stained-glass sanctuaries, the craftsmanship is quietly spectacular. - Atmosphere:
Unlike bustling tourist spots, these churches are peaceful. Often surrounded by nature, they are ideal for reflection and slowing down. - Stories and Connections:
Each church tells a story — of British settlers, local conversions, hardships, marriages, and communities that grew amidst unfamiliar landscapes. - Photography:
The settings are deeply photogenic — think misty mornings, moss-covered stones, colorful glass catching soft light, and dramatic Gothic arches against blue skies.
Things to Remember When Visiting
- Respect Services: If you visit during a Sunday service, remember to maintain silence and dress modestly.
- Photography: Always ask if photography is allowed inside the church.
- Donations: Many of these churches operate on limited funds. A small donation helps with their upkeep.
- Local Guides: Some churches, like Warleigh and Holy Trinity, have caretakers who will happily share little-known stories if you ask politely.
Conclusion
Sri Lanka’s hill country is full of breathtaking sights — waterfalls, tea estates, mountains — but tucked quietly among them are these enduring churches, each offering its own glimpse into the past.
Visiting them adds another layer to your journey. It’s not just about the beauty you see, but the stories you hear — stories of faith, endurance, and cross-cultural blending over centuries.
The next time you find yourself amidst Sri Lanka’s misty hills, take a detour. Step inside a stone church framed by tea gardens, listen to the echoes of history in its wooden beams, and experience a different kind of wonder.
Because sometimes, the most unforgettable places are the ones whispered quietly by time.
