Malayattoor Kurisumudy
A Spiritual Pilgrimage in the Clouds: Malayattoor Kurisumudy is one of the most significant Christian pilgrimage centers in India. It is perched atop the Malayattoor Hill, which rises 609 meters above sea level. Legend has it that St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus, sought refuge on this hill during h is travels in AD 52. It is said that he knelt on a rock to pray, leaving behind his footprints and a golden cross that emerged miraculously. The climb to the top is a spiritual journey for thousands of devotees, especially during the Lenten season. The path up the hill is steep and rugged, symbolizing the "Way of the Cross." As you ascend, the bustling world below fades away, replaced by the whispering winds and the panoramic view of the Periyar River snaking through the green landscape. The shrine at the top is modest but deeply evocative, housing the sacred footprint and the golden cross. For non-pilgrims, the site offers an incredible trekking experience and a chance to witness the deep-rooted religious traditions of Kerala. The tranquility at the summit, combined with the historical weight of the Apostle's presence, makes Malayattoor a unique blend of adventure and divinity. The surrounding forests and the sight of the river below provide a sense of calm that is hard to find elsewhere.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
4 to 6 HoursPlace Type:
Religious / Pilgrimage / TrekkingTiming:
Opening Hours: The hill is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM generally.
Ideal Time: Reach by 6:30 AM to start the climb before the sun gets too harsh. ...Opening Hours: The hill is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM generally.
Ideal Time: Reach by 6:30 AM to start the climb before the sun gets too harsh.Special Events:
Malayattoor Perunnal: The grand feast held on the first Sunday after Easter, drawing lakhs of pilgrims.
Good Friday Procession: A solemn event where thousands climb the hill carrying heavy crosses. ...Malayattoor Perunnal: The grand feast held on the first Sunday after Easter, drawing lakhs of pilgrims.
Good Friday Procession: A solemn event where thousands climb the hill carrying heavy crosses.Best Photo Spots:
The Summit Cross: A photo with the large cross at the peak with the valley in the background.
The Periyar Bend: Capture the river's curve from the midpoint of the trek. Statue of St.
Thomas: The large statu...The Summit Cross: A photo with the large cross at the peak with the valley in the background.
The Periyar Bend: Capture the river's curve from the midpoint of the trek. Statue of St.
Thomas: The large statue at the base is a popular landmark.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Trek the Kurisumudy Hill: The climb is challenging but rewarding with scenic views. Visit the St.
Thomas Shrine: Offer prayers at the spot where the Apostle is believed to have stood.
Light a Candle for Peace: Join the tradition of lighting candles at the hilltop.
Carry a Cross: Many pilgrims carry wooden crosses as an act of penance.
Photography of the Periyar: The view from the top offers the best perspective of the river valley.
Explore the Base Church: The architecture of the lower church is also worth admiring.
Meditation by the River: Spend time at the riverbank before or after the climb.
Visit the Elephant Training Center:
Information
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Why Famous:
The Footprint of an Apostle: It is famous as the place where St. Thomas prayed and left his mark on the rock.
International Pilgrim Centre: It is one of the few shrines in the world designated as an International Shrine by the Vatican.
...The Footprint of an Apostle: It is famous as the place where St. Thomas prayed and left his mark on the rock.
International Pilgrim Centre: It is one of the few shrines in the world designated as an International Shrine by the Vatican.
The Golden Cross: The legend of the cross that appeared on the rock is a central draw for millions of believers. -
Architecture:
Greco-Roman and Kerala Fusion: The church architecture is a fascinating blend of styles.
The Main Facade: It follows the Roman Catholic style with tall arches and intricate carvings.
Greek Influence: The alt...Greco-Roman and Kerala Fusion: The church architecture is a fascinating blend of styles.
The Main Facade: It follows the Roman Catholic style with tall arches and intricate carvings.
Greek Influence: The altar is designed in the traditional Greek style, featuring murals of the five joyful mysteries of Christ.
Historical Dimensions: The church at the base and the shrine at the top are built to withstand the hilly terrain, with the hilltop shrine being a smaller, more intimate stone structure.
Baptismal Pond: An ancient stone pond used for rituals adds to the historical architectural value. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is just 15 KMS away.
By Train: Angamaly is the nearest railway station at 17 KMS.
By Road: State transport buses run frequently from Ernakulam and Perumbavoor. -
Near Tourist Places:
Kodanad Elephant Centre (10 KMS), Athirappilly Falls (25 KMS), Vazhachal Falls (30 KMS), Adi Shankara Keerthi Sthamba (15 KMS), Sree Ramakrishna Advaita Ashram (16 KMS), Thattekad Bird Sanctuary (35 KMS), Bhoothathankettu (30 KMS), Kalady (15 KMS), Aluva Manappuram (20 KMS), Ezhattumugham (15 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Wear sturdy shoes and carry plenty of water for the climb.
Packing: A small backpack with snacks, a hat, and sunscreen is essential.
Accommodation: Basic pilgrim centers are available at t...
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