Malayattoor Church

Nestled in Malayattoor Angamaly, Kerala, St. Thomas Syro Malabar Pilgrim Church or Malayattoor Church is a revered Catholic International Shrine, known for its deep spiritual significance and natural beauty. Recognized as one of the eight international shrines by the Vatican, this sacred site is associated with St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have prayed here upon his arrival in Kerala.

The Spiritual Legacy of St. Thomas and Malayattoor Church

St. Thomas, an apostle of Jesus Christ, is said to have arrived in Kerala in 52 C.E. He built the Malayattoor Church and retreated to the hills for prayer. The shrine, situated at an elevation of 609 meters in the Ernakulam district, continues to draw pilgrims in search of blessings.

The church is the largest pilgrimage center dedicated to St. Thomas in India. The annual Malayattoor Perunnal festival, celebrated in March and April, attracts thousands of devotees. The Marthoma Mandapam, housing relics of St. Thomas, is a must-visit for pilgrims.

Set amidst the natural splendor of Kerala, the shrine is near the Periyar River, offering opportunities for spiritual cleansing. Revered sights include the Golden Cross at Kurisumudi, believed to have been formed by St. Thomas, and his imprints on the rock.

Perched atop Kurisumudi hill, the church offers breathtaking views of the surrounding Malayattoor and Kodanad villages. Pilgrims flock here, especially on the first Sunday after Easter, to partake in the main festival, seeking blessings and spiritual solace.

Plan Your Visit to the Malayattoor Chruch

The journey to the Malayattoor Hill Shrine is a pilgrimage in itself, as believers carry large crosses up the hill, offering their struggles and seeking forgiveness and peace from God. Holy Mass in Malayattoor Chruch is held daily at 7:30 AM. On Sundays and feast days, there are two services: one at 7:30 AM and another at 9:30 AM.

Visitors can reach the shrine easily by road from Angamaly and Aluva, or by flying into Cochin International Airport. The nearest railway stations are Angamaly, 23 kilometers away, and Ernakulam Junction, 46 kilometers away. Cochin International Airport is the closest airport, just 22 kilometers from the shrine.

The St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church in Malayattoor is not just a pilgrimage destination but a place where spirituality and natural beauty converge, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

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