Since it is located in the coastal region, the weather is extremely pleasant and mild. The church is located on the coast, facing the Arabian Sea, and there is a lot of walking space around the church making it a wonderful place to meditate. The district of Allepey has undulating meadows and farmlands, thus providing you a good drive through the rural areas.
Pilgrim
St Andrew's Forance Church
About St Andrew's Forance Church
Tourism of Kerala has marked Arthunkal Church as one of the top religious places to be visited. It is a landmark of the district of Alappuzha, and attracts both Christians and non-Christians alike. Recently, a group of Hindu pilgrims visited the church after returning from Sabarimala, an important Hindu pilgrimage. It is believed that Lord Ayyappa and St. Sebastian are related to each other.
Offerings are given in this church by various ways. Some roll on the soft sands carrying the small bows and arrows made of silver or gold. St. Sebastian, to whom the church is dedicated, was killed by the Roman emperors with arrows. This kind of worship exhibits the devotion of the pilgrims visiting the church. People also walk barefoot along the beach to reach the church and pay their homage to Jesus Christ. The feast of St. Sebastian is an important festival in the church and is celebrated every year in the month of January.
History or Myth
Arthunkal St. Andrew’s Forane Church has a rich historical background. It was built by Portuguese missionaries when they landed in India. Arthunkal Veluthachan was the vicar who rebuilt in the church in the latter half of the 16th century and it was believed that he had magical powers to cure illness. The wooden cross that we see today was installed in the church with the help of Hindus living in the region.
Tips or precaution
- St. Sebastian’s feast
- Offerings by the people
- View of the Arabian Sea
- Ancient architecture
- Wonderful photographical location
How to reach
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BY AIR
St Andrew's Forance Church is only 68 Kilometres away from the Cochin International airport(Nedumbasserry). -
BY TRAIN
You can reach by train from any part of India. Nearest railwaystation is Cherthala Railway Station(7.5 Kilometers). -
BY ROAD
Bus service is available from all the places in Kerala and luxury buses are available from most of the South Indian cities.
Highlights or specialities
- Beware of people who extort money posing as tour guides.
- Visit other ancient churches and tourist hotspots in the district.
- Camera, for taking a lot of pictures.