8 Famous Churches in Kerala You Must Visit

When in Kerala, there are a few things that every touris must experience. This typically includes the backwaters and the beautiful tea gardens. But don't forget to add these 8 famous churches to your Kerala itinerary.  

Rightly known as God's own country, Kerala is a beautiful mix of nature, culture, and history. 

For tourists, it is a paradise with so much to explore here. While the calm backwaters will soothe your nerves, the beautiful hill stations and tea plantations will take you to a different world. 

But there is one more thing that Kerala is widely known for - the beautiful churches. With a rich cultural heritage of Christianity, you can find churches spread across the state in almost every nook and corner. 

But there are 8 churches in Kerala that you must visit when you’re here. Let’s take a look. 

• Santa Cruz Basilica

Amongst the biggest churches in Kerala, Santa Cruz Cathedral is one of the eight Basilicas in India. Built by the Portuguese in 1500 CE, this church in the famous Fort Kochi showcases beautiful Indo-European architecture, Italian paintings, and murals that hold great historical importance. Once you enter the church, you cannot take your eyes off the beauty of the frescos and the stained glass windows. 

If you're staying at resorts in Cherai by Club Mahindrai, it will take you less than an hour to reach Fort Kochi. Ask the travel desk for an organized tour. 

• St. Francis Church

This European-style church is another one of the most famous churches in Kerala. According to history, it was built in the 16th century. It served as the burial ground for Vasco da Gama for 14 years before the mortal remains were moved to Lisbon. His gravestone, however, can still be seen. The old architectural style consisting of timber wood, white stone and stained-glass artwork leaves you mesmerized.

• Pallikunnu Church

Constructed in the name of ‘Our Lady of Lourdes’, Pallikunnu is a beautiful Latin catholic church in Kerala. Many ceremonies and traditions performed here are similar to those performed at Hindu temples which may be surprising for tourists. The church offers spectacular surroundings of lush greenery and tranquillity. 

If you’re staying at Vythiri Village, a Club Mahindra affiliate resort in Wayanad, it will take you about 25-35 minutes to reach this church. 

• St. Mary’s Church, Bharananganam

Also famously known as St. Alphonsa Church, it is one of the historical monuments in Kerala and carries rich history with it. St. Alphonsa was the first Indian woman to be canonized as a saint, and her mortal remains were buried here. Thousands of pilgrims come here for the annual holy feast of St. Alphonsa in July. 

The gorgeous red brick building has a glass portrait of the saint inside the church and an annexe museum displaying her belongings. A lush green garden and majestic fountain add to the beauty of the church.

• Catholic Rosary Church

Famous for its architecture, Catholic Rosary Church was established in the 16th century. The detailed glass artwork, wide facade, frescos, etc., mark the epitome of art and craftsmanship. The stained glass was brought from London, and architecture has influences from the British era. The church is near the Thalassery beach, making it look all the more picturesque.

• Basilica of Our Lady of Dolores

Considered to be the tallest church in Kerala and the third-tallest in Asia, the Basilica of Lady Dolores is built in a gorgeous Indo-Gothic style. The church is constructed with white marble, and the interiors are adorned with beautiful murals, paintings of saints and images of scenes from the scriptures. It also has a fascinating Bible Tower on its premises.

• Edathua Church

Dedicated to St George, Edathua Church, also known as St. George Forane Church, was built in the early 19th century and is popular among Christians and non-Christians alike. It is believed that the church possesses healing powers, and everyone's prayers are responded to. People with mental disorders and other medical issues come here seeking salvation. The majestic arches and pillars are a reminiscence of brilliant medieval European architecture.

• Arthunkal Church

Built-in the 16th century by Portuguese missionaries, St. Andrew's Basilica is the largest church in Kerala dedicated to St. Sebastian. It was reconstructed in 1584 under priest Jacomo Fenicio who was known as ‘Arthunkal Veluthachan’, giving it the name- Arthunkal Church. The church bears a statue of St. Sebastian imported from Italy and is the biggest shrine of St. Sebastian in the world. 

Book your stay at Alleppey resorts by Club Mahindra Arookutty and explore the church and other monuments in and around.

Plan Your Kerala Itinerary 

While you explore the backwaters and the tea plantations, don’t forget to pay a visit to these 8 churches in Kerala. While there are many places to visit in Kerala, these churches should definitely be on your list. Many Club Mahindra holiday resorts in Kerala ensure you have a comfortable stay in this beautiful God's own country.