The Malayattoor Church is one of the most significant Christian pilgrim centers in the southern state of Kerala
. The church attracts hundreds of devotees throughout the year not only from Kerala itself but also from other adjoining states of south India. This renowned church of south India is placed at ehight of about 2,000 ft above sea level, in Malayattor hill, which is at a distance of about 52 km from Kochi. It is dedicated to St. Thomas and is said to be visited twice by the Apostle, who visited India during the 1st century A.D.
. The church attracts hundreds of devotees throughout the year not only from Kerala itself but also from other adjoining states of south India. This renowned church of south India is placed at ehight of about 2,000 ft above sea level, in Malayattor hill, which is at a distance of about 52 km from Kochi. It is dedicated to St. Thomas and is said to be visited twice by the Apostle, who visited India during the 1st century A.D.
According to the legends, St. Thomas structured seven and a half churches in the state of Kerala; half is indicated to the church which is smaller in size. The churches built by the saint are placed at Palayur, Kokomangalam, Niranam, Kodungallur, Paravur, Chayal and Kollam. The Malayattor Church and the Tiruvanmcode Church in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu are taken to be half church. But some argue on this believe and regard the Malayatoor Church as one of the major churches built by St. Thomas and say that the churches at Kokomanagalam and Paravur must be regarded as one.
The hill of Malayattor has two churches that are dedicated to St. Thomas, one on top of the hillock, Kurishumudi and the other one, below it, Malayattoor St. Thomas Parish Church. Kurishumudi is where one can find the Golden Cross, which is said to have formed when St. Thomas bent down on his knees on a rock and signed a cross with his finger. It is believed that he continued to pray at this spot and then a golden cross appeared on the spot. Another interesting feature at hill is the marks of footprint and the knees, believed to be that of St. Thomas, which are imprinted on the rock.
Malayattoor Perunnal
The ’Perunnal’ or feast is organized at the Malayattor Church on the Sunday after Easter pilgrims of all religions from far and near hike the hill, chanting the name of the Apostle. It is believed to have landed here at the Muziris, now known as Kodungallor port, in 52 A.D. Hundreds of devotees come to this place carrying the wooden crosses in order to participate in one of the most renowned festival in this region.
Malayattoor Perunnal festival is considered as a church festival held at the Malayattoor Church in Kerala. During the festival tourists can witness most of the chief local customs, which are displayed in a captivating manner. The festival offers some memorable moments to the visitors with its lively colors and blissful environment.
The festival is considered as one of the most renowned local festivals that is celebrated during the summers in April and should certainly not be missed if you want to experience the pleasurable and religious atmosphere of the region.
This festival also includes some cabinets, which are most of the chief local rituals and is a delight ot watch. It is regarded to be one of the fascinating events for the tourists who come to this place during the festive season.
How to Reach
By Rail: The nearest railway station to this church is Angamaly, located at a distance of about 17 km from Malayattoor.
By Air: The nearest airport to this church is Cochin International Airport, located at a distance of about 15 km from Malayattoor.
By Road: The church is easily accessible from anywhere in Kerala and Kochi as the place has well established network of roads. In order to reach Malayatoor, one has to drive down on the NH47, take a diversion towards Kalady from Angamaly and then drive all the way to Kalady town which will take you around 10 minutes. After reaching the Kalady town, one has to take left towards Malayattor.
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