St.Thomas Kottakkavu Forane Church

Interesting things to Visit

Edappally palace temple:

Punnakkal Bhagavathy Temple:

Manikyamangalam Sree Punnakkal Bhagavathi Temple is celebrating ‘Perumkaliyatta Mahotsavam’ after a long period of one and half centuries. It is festival of region more than faith and belief. The Mahotsavam is celebrated by all the people of region irrespective of religion and caste. It gives freshness and peace to life and thoughts of people.

Historical Museum :

Important scenes of Kerala history are portrayed through through Sculptures. Greeting the visitor outside is a statue of Parasurama ,the mythological safe who is said to have created Kerala.

Bastion Bunglow :

Built in the Indo-European style way back in 1667 AD, Bastion Bungalow get its name from its location on the site of the Stromberg Bastion of the old, Dutch fort.

Bolghatty:

Bolghatty palace built by the Dutch in 1744. Later it became the seat of the British Resident of Cochin. Today it is a hotel run by K.T.D.C. The grounds have a small golf course & several vantage points for lovely views of the harbour & the sea.

Cherai Beach:

Cherai Beach offers a unique combination of sea and backwaters rimmed by lush green coconut palms.

Children’s Park :

A high-tech children’s Park with Non-Conventional Energy Museum and Musical Fountain. The Children enjoy a lot with the facilities available here.

Nearest Visiting places

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace):

Built by the Portuguese in 1557, the Palace was presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi (Cochin). The palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. On display here are beautiful Murals depicting scenes from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata and some of the puranic Hindu legends.

Chinese Fishing Nets:

The fixed and cantilevered Chinese Fishing Nets are the icon of Cochin sea trade. The fishing nets like these are not found anywhere else in India. Some traders brought these huge cantilevered fishing nets here from the court of Kublai Khan.

Santa Cruz Basilica Church:

This Roman Catholic church, built in 1503 and situated near the St. Francis Church, is a specimen of the Portuguese architecture. Frescoes and mural paintings decorate its ceiling and interior parts. The Gothic architecture and the lofty spires give it a unique grandeur.

Cherai Beach:

This lovely beach bordering Vypeen Island is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. There are a couple of simple cafes and guesthouses too. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby is an added attraction of this beach.

Kaladi:

Legend holds that one day, the widowed mother of Little Sankara, Aryadevi, fainted after walking three kilometers for her daily bath in the Periyar river. Feeling helpless, Little Sankara prayed to Lord Krishna. The tears of the child moved Krishna, who blessed him thus: ‘the river will flow where your little feet marks’.

Marine Drive:

Marine Drive is a picturesque promenade in Kochi, Kerala, India. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the local populace. Ironic to its name, no vehicles are allowed on the walkway.

Princess Street :

Flowerpot-laden window sills, bronze stucco walls and peeling pastel – these all are the symbols of colonial style buildings. See them in Princess street – a back street.Now filled with antique shops,homestays and hotels,with out disturbing the orginality. Fort Kochi really revels in moody pastimes.

Thanthoni Aqua Farm :

Thanthoni Aqua Farm launched in Thanthoni island of Kochi recently is a new edition of tourism attraction in Kerala. The Farm is in two-acre Island with natural beauty retained in tact. The place is amazingly nice to unwind, to fish and to imbibe cool breeze let loose liberally.

Indira Gandi Boat Race :

It is Conducted in August-September during Onam. Scores of sleek snake-boats with over100 oarsmen in each vie with to touch the finishing point first. The furious and sporadic paddling will turn the Marine Drive water front into frothing melee in tune with the Onam revelry.

Cochin Carnival :

Impromptu competitions and the white paper buntings adorned everywhere – streets, homes, shopts etc.in the last 10 days of the year

Hill Palace:

12 km away at Thripunithura. The palace is now a museum, the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Different types of sculptures, collection of rare coins, old weapons, manuscripts in ancient lipis and collections from the Kochi Royal family exhibited here.

Elephant Kraal at Kodanadu :

The Kraal means training camp. The word is in Afrikaans. The training is a long and tedious process. It may take one to two years. The mahouts too get training here. Every year half a million put their feet in Kodanadu to see the intricacies of elephant training.

Boothathankettu Dam :

This is located at 7/8 km from, Kothamangalam. The Dam is a wonderful picnic spot. There is well-maintained Children’s Park here. The Reservoir and Park are big attractions.

Edamalayar Lower Dam :

This Dam is located at ahead of Boothathankett Dam on same route. The picturesque surroundings are great attraction here. The people from far and near throng here to enjoy the nature’s benevolence.

Pallipuram Fort:

Pallipuram Fort was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It is one of the oldest existing European monoments in India. The Catholic church at Pallipuram is an important pilgrim centre.

Kerala Historical Museum:

This “live” Museum is not just a retelling of the past but is a Light and Sound show of three-dimensional visuals. 87 figures who shaped the history and culture of Kerala in the last two thousand years have been represented here in Light and Sound Tableaus.

Kodanad:

It is one of the largest elephant training centres of South India. The beautiful river Periyar flows in the north of this place. The elephants are mainly trained for Safari. There is also a small zoo here.

Willington Island:

This is artificial island named after Lord Willingdon, and a British viceroy to India is surrounded by beautiful, calm and serene backwaters. This sweet getaway was created from the soil obtained while deepening the docks at the Kochi harbor. This small piece of land is the headquarters of the Southern naval command and also an important trade center. Cruises along the gorgeous backwaters that surround the island are a luxury anyone would love to indulge in.

Thattakkadu Bird Sanctuary:

This bird Sanctuary on the Kochi-Munnar road, about 20 km from Kothamangalam. This sanctuary is rightly named after its explorer Dr. Salim Ali, the renowned ornithologist. A variety of native birds like the Malabar grey-horn bill, the woodpecker, the parakeet etc can be seen here. The Ceylon frog-moth and rose-billed roller are among the rare birds found in this sanctuary. Various migrant birds also come here during the season.

Nearest Petrol Pump

Petrol Pump
NH 47A, Palarivattom
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
NH47, North Kalamassery
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Kadavanthara
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Binanipuram Road, Edayar
Aluva, Ernakulam
Kerala.

Petrol Pump
Pookkattupady Kizhakkambalam Road,
Ernakulam, Kerala State.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

Hotel Paradise
NH47, Edapally
Ernakulam, Kerala
Tel: 0484 2541969.

Hotel Highway Garden
Bye Pass Road, Edappally
Ernakulam, Kerala 680024
Tel: 0484 233539.

Kerala Honeymoon Packages
32/1822 A, Millennium Nagar
Edappally P O, Kochi,
Kerala 682024.

Elsa Tourist Home
40/1084, Edappally
Ernakulam, Kerala 680024
Tel: 0484 2344419.

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Kuruppampady Police station
Kuruppampady Ernakulam
Kerala.

ET North Police Station
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Police Station Edappally
Ernakulam, Kerala.

Nearest Hospital:

Edapally Dental Care
National Residency Edp
Edappally, Ernakulam
Kerala 680024 0
Tel: 484 2344212.

Triveni Nursing Home
Opposite Gayathri Kalyana Mandapam
Edappally, Ernakulam
Kerala 680024
Tel:0484 2334335.

Jo-Ans Medical Centre
Toll Junction, Edappally
Ernakulam, Kerala 680024
Tel:0484 2556573.

Location info

• Address: North Paravur, Ernakulam, kerala, India.

• District: Ernakulam district

• Nearest City: Kochi, kottaym, Kollam , Aluva, Paruvur and Chalakkudy.

• Best time to visit:

History of St.Thomas Kottakkavu Forane Church

According to the history and traditions of the Indian Church, Apostle St. Thomas (Mor Thoma Sleeho) who reached ‘Maliankara’ (Malankara) in AD 52 had established a Church at ‘North Paravur’ (then known as Kottailkavu). This is said to be the first Christian congregation in India. This historic site is located just a few miles south of the ancient port of Kodungallor (Cragnannor). The early Christian converts are believed to be, the Jewish settlers who migrated to the India for trade purposes and also some upper caste Hindus. North Paravur in the early centuries was the most prominent Christian centre in India and it still holds a unique position in the Malankara Church. A large Christian population, mostly Syrian Orthodox and Roman Catholics, lives here. Angamali, which was the headquarters of the Christian community for many centuries, is located near to this town of North Paravur.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Kerala. 4G is reliable in Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, and along the coastal belt. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain backwater stretches. Most hotels, houseboats, and cafes in tourist areas offer free Wi-Fi.

Food & restaurants nearby

Kerala’s towns and cities offer diverse food ranging from traditional Kerala sadhya to multi-cuisine restaurants. Kochi has a thriving food scene with influences from Arab, Portuguese, and Jewish traders. Temple festivals feature traditional Kerala vegetarian feasts.

Climate & weather

Kerala has a tropical monsoon climate with warm, humid conditions year-round. The best time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are a pleasant 22°C–30°C with low humidity and clear skies. March–May is hot and humid (up to 36°C). The southwest monsoon (June–September) brings heavy rainfall — the landscape transforms into lush green and this is the best time for Ayurvedic treatments. The northeast monsoon (October–November) brings shorter showers. Hill stations (Munnar, Wayanad) remain cooler year-round.

Accessibility

Religious sites may have steps at the entrance and may not have ramps. The interiors are generally level once inside. Some historic sites have uneven stone floors. Visitors with mobility concerns should check in advance.

Rules & restrictions

Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered (scarves or shawls are often available at the entrance). Photography is generally permitted without flash, but video may be restricted. Maintain silence inside. Mobile phones should be on silent mode. Remove shoes if required (indicated by signage). Do not touch artefacts or altars. These are active places of worship — respect services, festivals, and devotees.

Best photography spots

Kerala has some of India’s finest church architecture. The Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church (India’s oldest European church, where Vasco da Gama was first buried), and the numerous Syrian Christian churches across the backwaters feature distinctive Kerala-style facades mingling European and local design. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light.

Best time to visit St.Thomas Kottakkavu Forane Church

The best time to visit St Thomas Kottakkavu Forane Church is during the Christmas season (December) when churches are beautifully decorated and midnight Mass celebrations are special. The annual feast days of individual churches are also ideal times to visit. November to February offers the most comfortable weather.

Timings & opening hours

Churches are generally open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Mass timings vary — typically morning Mass around 6:00 AM–7:00 AM and evening Mass around 5:00 PM–6:30 PM. Visitors are welcome outside of service times. Some historic churches close for lunch (12:30 PM–2:30 PM).

Entry fee & tickets

Entry to churches is generally free. Donations are welcome. Some historic churches with museums may charge a nominal entry fee of INR 10–20. Camera fees may apply for interior photography.

Duration needed

30 minutes to 1 hour for a regular visit. During feast days and services, plan accordingly. Guided heritage walks in church complexes may take 1.5–2 hours.

Safety tips

Maintain silence inside the church. Dress modestly (shoulders covered, no shorts). Photography rules vary — check signage before taking pictures. Be respectful duringMass services. Keep your belongings secure during crowded festival events.

Things to carry

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, a shawl or modest scarf, a camera (check interior photography policy), and an umbrella for weather protection. Head covering may be required in some churches (scarves are usually available at the door).

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK) (approximately 0 km). Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction / Ernakulam Town Railway Station. The destination is well-connected by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis from major towns.

Things to do at St.Thomas Kottakkavu Forane Church

Attend Mass or a prayer service to experience Kerala’s Christian traditions, admire the unique blend of European and Kerala church architecture, study the altar art and stained-glass windows, visit the church museum (if available), explore the surrounding heritage precinct, photograph the facade and interiors (where permitted), and learn about the church’s historical significance from local guides.

Frequently asked questions

Are visitors welcome during Mass? — Yes, visitors are welcome to attend Mass services. Maintain silence and respect the service. Non-Catholics are welcome to observe but generally do not receive communion. Photography is usually not allowed during Mass. What is the history of this church? — Kerala’s Christian heritage dates to 52 AD with the arrival of St. Thomas. Each church has its own history and significance — ask the caretaker or check for information boards. Is there a dress code? — Modest dress is appreciated: shoulders covered, no shorts or mini skirts. Some churches provide shawls or wraps at the entrance. Photography restrictions? — Photography is generally permitted in the church interior without flash. Video recording may require permission. Some areas may be restricted, especially during services.