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Located in the Kottayam district of Kerala, Vagamon Kurisumala is a Christian pilgrimage site that draws numerous devotees each year, particularly during Holy Week and Good Friday. The serene monastery atop the hill, the tranquil surroundings, refreshing mountain breeze, and verdant landscapes all provide a soothing experience to the soul.
Kurisumala, which translates to “Mountain of the Cross” in Malayalam, features the 14 stations of “The Way of the Cross,” where pilgrims carry wooden crosses and reflect on the passion and death of Jesus Christ as they climb. Once at the top, they can pray and meditate at a small church constructed on a rock.
Vagamon Kurisumala Ashram
Vagamon Kurisumala is also home to a unique monastery called Kurisumala Ashram. The ashram follows a blend of Christian and Indian spiritual traditions, with an emphasis on prayer, work, and communion. The mass in the Ashram incorporates Hindu traditions through the use of chants, ceremonies, and symbols.
The Kurisumala Ashram was established in 1958 by Francis Mahieu and Bede Griffiths, who laid the foundation at Tiruvalla in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. They later moved to Kurisumala, where the monastery was officially established. The Indo-swiss dairy farm started there with cattle imported from Jersey to support themselves. Within three years, the population of the monastery grew to fifteen individuals.
Prayer services were initially held in Syriac. The monastery was incorporated as an abbey into the Cistercian Order of Strict Observance in 1998, and Francis Acharya became the only religious leader of the Ashram at Kurisumala. A couple of years before his death in 2002, Acharya had the Kurisumala Ashram affiliated to the Trappists.
Vagamon Kurisumala: Beyond Spirituality
Vagamon Kurisumala is not just a religious site but also a picturesque location that showcases cultural diversity. The hill is encompassed by verdant tea plantations, misty valleys, and undulating meadows. Its delightful weather conditions make it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers all year round. Vagamon offers a plethora of exciting outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, and paragliding for visitors to indulge in.
Plan Your Visit to Vagamon Kurisumala
Vagamon Kurisumala offers a unique blend of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty that creates a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere.
How to Reach: The hill is easily accessible by road from Kottayam or Cochin, with the nearest railway station being Pala (37 km) and the nearest airport being Cochin International Airport (100 km). A short trek is required to reach atop Kurisumala that will take about 30 minutes. The trek is not too difficult, but it is quite long, and the destination is definitely worth the effort. The view is breathtaking, and the overall experience is refreshing.
Timings: Vagamon Kurisumala welcomes visitors all year round from 6 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and nature is at its best.
Vagamon Kurisumala offers visitors a chance to experience the harmonious unity of diverse faiths, cultures, and natural beauty. The tranquil ambiance and breathtaking mountain vistas provide a peaceful and inspiring escape.
