St. Paul's Church, Kandy

St. Paul's Church is an Anglican building of Gothic Revival style located west of the Temple of the Tooth, featuring pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and a substantial stained glass window above the altar. The structure displays the architectural characteristics typical of the 1800s and stands out in the surrounding area.

Construction of the building began in 1843 after Bishop Reginald Heber identified the need for a dedicated worship space. This replaced the earlier practice of holding services in the King's Audience Hall.

The church serves both English-speaking and Sinhala-speaking worshippers, reflecting the diversity of the city. Regular congregational life brings together people from different backgrounds within this space.

The building is open to visitors during the week and on weekends while accommodating active worship services. Visitors should respect prayer times and dress appropriately when entering.

The building houses the only pipe organ in the city, replaced in 2009 with an instrument from a Bradford church. This instrument is likely the largest of its kind on the island.

Location: Kandy

Inception: 1852

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Website: http://stpaulschurchkandy.lk

GPS coordinates: 7.29453,80.63969

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:20