Afghan Church – Mumbai, Maharashtra

The Afghan Church, formally known as the Church of St. John the Evangelist, stands as a striking monument in the Colaba area of Mumbai, Maharashtra. Built in the mid-19th century, this church is not only a place of worship but also a solemn memorial to the British soldiers who lost their lives during the First Afghan War (1839–1842). With its neo-Gothic architecture and historic significance, the Afghan Church is a blend of spirituality, colonial history, and architectural grandeur, making it a remarkable landmark in Mumbai.

About the Church:

The Church of St. John the Evangelist, commonly known as the Afghan Church, is a historic Anglican church located in Colaba, Mumbai. Built by the British in memory of the soldiers who perished in the First Anglo-Afghan War (1839–1842), the church stands as a solemn tribute to their sacrifice. Renowned for its stunning Gothic Revival architecture, the church features towering spires, pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and intricate stone carvings. With a rich history, remarkable architectural beauty, and deep spiritual significance, the Afghan Church remains a prominent landmark in Mumbai.

Description:

This neo-Gothic style church is known for its beautiful architecture, tall spire, stained glass windows, and rich historical significance. The church serves as a place of worship and a heritage landmark that reflects British colonial architecture.
Specialty of the Church:

Gothic Revival Architecture: The church is an architectural marvel with high-rising spires, pointed arches, stained glass windows, and intricately carved stone details.

Memorial Plaques: Inside, there are plaques and inscriptions honoring British officers and soldiers who fought in the Afghan War.

Tallest Church Spire in Mumbai: Standing at 198 feet (60 meters), the church's spire is among the tallest in Mumbai.

Stained Glass Windows: The church features beautiful stained-glass artwork, imported from England.

Basalt and Limestone Construction: The church was built using locally sourced buff-colored basalt and limestone. Church Details:

Address:

Afghan Church (St. John the Evangelist Church)

Duxbury Lane, Colaba Causeway, Navy Nagar,

Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra - 400005, India Coordinates (Longitude & Latitude in a Single Line):

8.9036° N, 72.8151° E

Church Timings & Services:

Visiting Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 7:30 AM – 7:30 PM Church Services (Sevas):

Sunday Mass Timings:

Morning Service: 8:30 AM

Evening Service: 6:00 PM
Special services are held on Christmas, Easter, and Good Friday. Travel & Facilities Near the Church:

Nearest Railway Station:

Churchgate Railway Station (Western Line) – 3 km (approx. 5 mins by taxi)

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) – 4.5 km (Central & Harbour Line) Nearest Airport:

Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM) – 25 km (~45 minutes by car/taxi) Nearest Bus Station:

Backbay Depot – 1 km (~8 mins walk)

How to Reach Afghan Church:

Bus Routes to Church: Several BEST buses run to Colaba:

Bus No. 103, 123, 125, A-106 – Stop at Colaba Depot or Navy Nagar

Bus No. 106 from Churchgate to Navy Nagar Train Routes:

Nearest train station – Churchgate (Western Line)

Central & Harbour Line passengers should get down at CSMT (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and take a taxi or bus to Colaba. Airways to Church:

Mumbai Airport (BOM) is the closest airport. From there, you can take a taxi, Uber, Ola, or BEST AC bus to Colaba. Facilities Near Afghan Church:

Traveling Facilities:

Taxis & Auto-rickshaws are available around Colaba.

Mumbai Metro (not directly connected yet) but will improve in the future. Food Facilities Near the Church:

Popular restaurants near Afghan Church:

The Table – Famous for European Cuisine (1 km away)

Leopold Café – Iconic Mumbai café (2 km away)

Bademiya – Famous for street-style kebabs (2.5 km away)

Bagdadi Restaurant – Famous for Mughlai and Indian food (2.2 km away) Stay Facilities Near the Church:

Hotels Near Afghan Church:

The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai (Luxury, 2.5 km away)

Fariyas Hotel, Colaba (Mid-range, 1.5 km away)

Hotel Godwin, Colaba (Budget, 1.8 km away) Nearby Cities to Visit:

Mumbai (Main City) – 0 km

Navi Mumbai – 25 km

Thane – 35 km

Pune – 150 km Nearby Tourist Places & Temples to Visit:

Historic & Religious Sites:

Gateway of India (2.5 km)

Marine Drive (4 km)

Elephanta Caves (Ferry ride from Gateway of India)

Rajabai Clock Tower (3.5 km)

Haji Ali Dargah (9 km) Nearby Temples:

Mumba Devi Temple (8 km) – Dedicated to Goddess Mumbadevi

Siddhivinayak Temple (10 km) – Famous Lord Ganesha temple

Mahalakshmi Temple (9 km) Best Season to Visit Afghan Church:

Preferable Visiting Season:

Winter (November to February) – Best weather, pleasant for sightseeing

Monsoon (June to September) – Heavy rains but scenic views

Summer (March to May) – Hot & humid Shopping & Specialties in Colaba:

Shopping Famous For:

Colaba Causeway Market – Best for souvenirs, clothes, antiques, and street shopping

Crawford Market – Spices, dry fruits, chocolates, and fresh fruits

Fashion Street – Affordable trendy clothes

The Afghan Church is not just a place of worship but also a historical and architectural gem in Mumbai. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, visiting this church offers a profound experience. With its serene ambiance, towering spire, and exquisite stained-glass artwork, the church continues to attract visitors from across the world. Located in the vibrant neighborhood of Colaba, it is surrounded by cultural landmarks, shopping streets, and excellent food spots, making it a must-visit destination. Whether for prayer, history, or sightseeing, the Afghan Church stands as a timeless symbol of faith and remembrance in Mumbai.