All Saints Cathedral, lovingly called Patthar Girja (Stone Church), is one of North India’s finest Gothic churches, set in the heart of Civil Lines, Prayagraj.
Built in the late 19th century, this Anglican cathedral of the Church of North India is known for its grand stone façade, tall arches, stained glass and peaceful interiors that quietly tell stories from the colonial era.
The church was designed by renowned British architect Sir William Emerson, who also created landmarks like Victoria Memorial in Kolkata and Crawford Market in Mumbai, and it is often described as one of Asia’s most impressive Anglican cathedrals.
Locals and visitors come here not only to attend Sunday services, but also to enjoy its calm atmosphere, historic plaques, marble altar and the lush green lawns that surround this heritage stone structure.
The foundation stone of All Saints Cathedral was laid in 1871 by Elizabeth Huntly Wemyss, wife of Sir William Muir, then Lieutenant Governor of the North-Western Provinces.
The cathedral was consecrated in 1887 and largely completed by 1891, with November 1 (All Saints’ Day) celebrated as its anniversary within the Church of North India.
The cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture, with pointed arches, high vaulted ceilings, a large nave, side aisles, lancet windows and an impressive lantern/Victoria tower.
Built mainly of pale or cream stone with red sandstone details and coloured stained glass, the interiors feature a marble altar, alabaster pulpit, carved stonework and memorial tablets that recall the British era in Prayagraj.
The nave is about 130 feet long and 40 feet wide, with the full length of the church around 240 feet, giving it a spacious yet intimate feel for visitors and worshippers.
From the moment you enter through the main porch, the cool stone interiors, colourful light filtering through stained glass and quiet ambience make All Saints Cathedral a soothing stop during a city tour.
It is a favourite place for heritage walkers, photographers, architecture lovers and anyone who wants a short, peaceful break in the middle of bustling Civil Lines.
Location: Sarojini Naidu Marg / MG Marg, Civil Lines, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh – close to major roads and commercial areas.
From Prayagraj Junction: The cathedral is roughly 1 km from the main railway station; autos, e‑rickshaws and cabs take about 5–10 minutes depending on traffic.
From other parts of the city: Civil Lines is well connected by autos, buses and app cabs, so you can combine this visit with other attractions like Anand Bhavan, Khusro Bagh and Chandrashekhar Azad Park.
The cathedral is generally open in the daytime hours, with many sources reporting visiting time approximately from morning to early evening; Sunday services and special occasions may have dedicated prayer timings.
There is typically no entry fee for visitors, but guests are expected to maintain silence, dress modestly and respect ongoing prayers if a service is in progress.
Within a short drive you can visit Anand Bhavan, Khusro Bagh, Allahabad Museum, Chandrashekhar Azad Park and other key sights of Prayagraj.
Many city tours include All Saints Cathedral along with Triveni Sangam, Allahabad Fort and prominent temples, making it easy to cover both spiritual and heritage spots in one day.
Best months to explore are from October to March when the weather is more pleasant for walking around Civil Lines and clicking photos outside the church.
Keep the surroundings clean, avoid loud conversations, ask before taking close‑up photos of people and check locally for updated service or visiting hours, especially on Sundays and festivals.