St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church in Kottayam
· Summer: April-July (22°C - 40°C)
· Winter: November-January (20°C - 27°C)
· Monsoon: August-October
Best time to visit:
Throughout the year
Opening Time: 08:00 a.m.
Closing Time: 06:00 p.m.
Weekly Holiday: N/A
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
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St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church, also known as Kottayam Cheriapally, is one of the oldest churches not only in the state of Kerala, but also in the entire India. Constructed in the year 1579, the church astonishes with its architecture which is well-preserved and still intact. A significant aspect of the church’s architecture is that it blends the traditional Kerala style with European (Portuguese) style.
Numerous galleries, pediments, cornices and pillars define the elegance that the church boasts of. However, the most interesting aspect is the series of mural paintings done inside the wall, portraying biblical and many other themes. The church celebrates the Feast Day on January 15 every day. Apart from the church, the town of Kottayam is also famous for Valiapally Syrian Church and the backwater cruises over Lake Vembanand.
Connectivites
Road:
The town of Kottayam is connected with Kochi via NH 47 and with many popular destinations of Kerala via NH 220. State transport buses and taxis offer good services from these places to Kottayam. The church is located about 2 km. from the town’s centre and can be accessed by a cab, cycle-rickshaw or an auto-rickshaw.
Railway:
Kottayam Railway Station is about 3 km. from the church and is served by many super fast and passenger trains. The small distance from the station can be covered in cabs, auto-rickshaws or cycle-rickshaws.
Airway:
Kochi International Airport is about 90 km. from the Church. It is advised to travel from airport to the church in taxis.