Alappuzha Holy Places

Mullakkal Rajeswari Temple It is dedicated to the Goddess Rajarajeswari. The nine day ‘Navarathri’ festival is celebrated twice a year and is of special significance to the people of Alappuzha. Another important festival of the temple is ‘Thaipooyakavadi’. Many tourists and pilgrims visit this temple everyday. It is believed that this Goddess is the mother of the people of Alappuzha.

Ambalapuzha Temple Constructed in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India, and is renowned for the Palpayasam, the daily offering of sweet milk porridge. This temple witnesses the performance of Pallipana by Velans (sorcerers) once every twelve years. Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are displayed on the inner walls of the temple. The “Ottanthullal”, a satiric art form based on social themes was the brain child of the poet Kunchan Nambiar who performed it for the first time in the premises of this temple. This temple has its place in history too. It is believed that during the war spree of Tippu Sulthan, he had demolished many temples and fearing that he might demolish the Guruvayoor temple also; the shrine from Guruvayoor was brought to Ambalappuzha temple and was worshipped till Tippu’s time ended.

Arthunkal Church This is a prominent Christian Pilgrim centre near Cherthalai which is 22 km. north of Alappuzha. The St. Andrews Church here was built by Portuguese missionaries during the 15th century. One can see and feel the architectural beauty of the West in the construction of this church. The annual feast of St. Sebastian is held here in the month of January which attracts massive crowd from nearby and far off towns.

Champakulam Church The St. Mary’s Church is one of the oldest church in Kerala. It is said to be one of the seven churches established by St.Thomas during his visit to India during A.D.54. Situated on the bank of the river this church is of historical importance. The annual feast is held on the 3rd Sunday of October. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.

Chavara Bhavan The ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara, lies 6 km. away from Alappuzha. Thousands of devotees gather at this shrine. It can be reached only by boat from Alappuzha. It is a prominent tourist place too.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara The temple has the shrine of Bhagavathy and deeply respected not only by the Hindus but people belonging to all religions. The shrine is known for the Kettukazhcha festival, which attract thousands of devotees. The festival is held in Feb/Mar. and colorful procession is taken out. This temple is approximately 30 kms. From Alappuzha.

Edathua Church This church built during 1810, dedicated to St. George is of special significance as it is believed that prayers and offerings here help in healing all kinds of mental disorders and other ailments. The annual feast is held from 5th – 7th May and attracts devotees from all parts of south India. During the feast, the statue of St.George, decked in gold, was carried out in procession and placed on the dais at the centre of the Basilica. Processions were held everyday, and dazzling fireworks display highlighted in the initial as well as concluding day’s rituals. The Church is just 24 kms. from Alappuzha.

Karumadikuttan The small village near Ambalapuzha is known for the black granite idol of Lord Buddha known as Karumadikuttan. The idol dates back to 9th or 10th century.

Mannarsala This temple is famous for the ancient temple of Sree Nagaraja, the King of Serpents. Pilgrims from all over the country assemble here during the two day annual festival. It is believed that if the couples without children come here and perform a ritual called “Uruli Kamizhthuka” they will be blessed with children. It is 32 kms. from Alappuzha near Haripad on the National Highway 47.