Malayattur Hill Stations - Kerala
Malayattur is a small village which is blessed by natural bounties, situated in Angamaly, in Ernakulam district of Kerala. The word Malayattur is a combination of three small words, Mala (mountain), Arru (River) and Oore (place).
This beautiful destination is a meeting place of mountain, river, and land. Malayattur has gained its fame across the globe for the missionary work of apostle St. Thomas who is one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ.
The major attracting feature of Malayattur is the ancient Catholic Church which is dedicated to Apostle St. Thomas. It is a well-known Christian pilgrim destination in Kerala. The marvelous architecture of the Malayattur Church attracts a lot of architectural buffs to this place. The Durga Devi Temple is also a favourite attraction of tourist at Malayattur.
Highlights
- Malayattur is a popular Christian pilgrim destination in Kerala, well-known for housing the world-famous Malayattur Church.
- Malayattur Church is believed to have been established by St. Thomas who is one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ.
- Malayattur Church has now been accorded as an international pilgrimage station.
- This shrine houses a life-size statue of apostle St. Thomas and the imprint of the feet of the apostle St Thomas on a rock.
- The Church is placed on top of the Malayattur hill at a height of approximately 609 m.
- The Church at Malayattur has emerged as the largest pilgrim centre in the name of St. Thomas in India.
- The feast of St. Thomas is the biggest and auspicious celebration of the Malayattur Church which is observed on the first Sunday after Easter during which thousands of devotees throng the shrine for the blessings of St Thomas.
- The word Malayattur is a combination of three small words, Mala (mountain), Arru (River) and Oore (place).
- This beautiful destination is a meeting place of mountain, river, and land.
- Malayattur is blessed with natural bounties.
Best Time To Visit
Malayattur is a year-round destination which maintains a moderate climate and mild temperature. But the best time to visit Malayattur is from October to February. Summers are too hot, and March is considered as the hottest month with an average temperature of 30 degree Celsius.
July to August is the monsoon season, an ideal season to visit Malayattur during which the lush green beauty of its surroundings is at its peak. August is the coolest month with an average temperature of 24 degree Celsius.
Way To Reach
By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to Malayattur which is just 15 Km away. From there, you can hire a taxi or a cab to reach Malayattur.
By Rail: The Angamaly railway station is the nearest railway station to Malayattur which is at 17 Km away. Since most of the trains do not stop at Angamaly you can get down at the next railway station at Aluva (Alwaye) as every train halt there. From there, you can hire a taxi or a cab to reach Malayattur.
By Road Malayattur is well connected by a wide network of roads. Through NH47, one will have to take a diversion towards Kalady from Angamaly and drive all the way up to Kalady town which will take about 10 minutes to reach Malayattur.
FAQs:
Why is Malayattoor famous?
Malayattoor is famous for the Malayattoor Church, a significant Christian pilgrimage site believed to have been established by St. Thomas, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. The church is known for its spiritual significance and stunning Greco-Roman architecture.
What is special about Malayattoor Church?
The Malayattoor Church is one of the largest pilgrimage centers in India dedicated to St. Thomas. It sits atop the Malayattoor hill at about 609 meters above sea level. The church houses a life-size statue of St. Thomas and his footprints etched on a rock, making it a spiritual and architectural wonder.
What are the major attractions in Malayattoor besides the church?
Besides the Malayattoor Church, visitors can explore the Durga Devi Temple, which is another important attraction in Malayattoor. The natural beauty of the hills, rivers, and lush landscapes makes it a popular destination for trekking and nature walks.
Is Malayattoor Church recognized internationally?
Yes, the Malayattoor Church has been accorded the status of an International Pilgrimage Station by the Vatican, making it a significant religious destination for Christians worldwide.
What architectural style is the Malayattoor Church built in?
The Malayattoor Church features a stunning blend of Greco-Roman architecture. The front portion of the church is designed in Roman Catholic architectural style, while the altar is constructed in a traditional Greek style.
What makes the Feast of St. Thomas significant in Malayattoor?
The Feast of St. Thomas is the most significant religious celebration in Malayattoor, attracting thousands of devotees. It is observed on the first Sunday after Easter and commemorates St. Thomas, with special prayers, rituals, and celebrations at the Malayattoor Church.