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Temples #13 in New Delhi

Sacred Heart Cathedral

4.7 · 6,085 reviews
A quiet and solemn place for reflection.
Sacred Heart Cathedral, 1, Gol Dak Khana Roundabout, Ashok Place, Sector 4, Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
Interesting facts
1

The cathedral's foundation stone was laid in 1930 by E.R. Dumbleton, the Archbishop of Agra.

2

Henry Medd, the architect, was also responsible for designing parts of the Rashtrapati Bhavan and the Parliament House.

3

The church was built on 14 acres of land originally gifted by the Maharaja of Gwalior.

4

The altar is constructed from pure white marble, commissioned specifically for this cathedral.

5

The cathedral serves as the main episcopal seat for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Delhi.

6

Its bell tower remains one of the tallest structures in the immediate vicinity of the Gole Market area.

Overview

Sacred Heart Cathedral is the oldest and one of the largest church buildings in New Delhi, designed by Henry Medd. The structure features a distinct Italian architectural style, characterized by its white pillars and high arched ceilings. It is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Delhi. The cathedral was constructed on land donated by the Maharaja of Gwalior. The interior houses a large fresco behind the main altar and a spacious nave. The site serves as a functioning place of worship for the local Catholic community. It is situated prominently near the Gol Dak Khana Roundabout.

Photo spot

The front facade, capturing the symmetry of the white arches and pillars against the blue sky from the garden entrance.

Insider tips

Visit during weekday mornings to avoid large crowds and experience the church's intended quiet atmosphere.

Respect ongoing religious services by remaining silent and moving to the rear if a mass is in progress.

Explore the peaceful, shaded garden courtyard located behind the main cathedral building.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to photograph congregants during active masses or private prayer sessions.

Etiquette

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; remove hats and footwear before entering the main prayer hall; maintain silence.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
45 minutes
Best time to visit
Early morning in winter (November to February) to enjoy the mild weather and avoid the intense Delhi heat.
Address
Sacred Heart Cathedral, 1, Gol Dak Khana Roundabout, Ashok Place, Sector 4, Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110001, India
28.629, 77.207
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleItalian Architecture

Frequently asked

Plan for about 45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in winter (November to February) to enjoy the mild weather and avoid the intense Delhi heat..

The front facade, capturing the symmetry of the white arches and pillars against the blue sky from the garden entrance.

Close by you'll find Gurdwara Bangla Sahib, India Gate, Pracheen Hanuman Mandir, Connaught Place.