Top 11 Famous Churches in Kottayam to Visit

Kottayam, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, South India, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and diverse religious traditions.

From ancient places of worship steeped in history to modern marvels of religious architecture, the churches in Kottayam offer visitors a profound journey into the region's religious and cultural tapestry. The best time to visit these Churches is from October to March and during Christmas.

Here is the list of 11 famous churches in Kottayam that you must add to your itinerary:

1. St. Mary’s Knanaya Church | Valiyapally

St. Mary’s Knanaya Church is a revered spiritual landmark in Kottayam's heart. With its rich history dating back centuries, this church is a testament to the vibrant Knanaya community's faith and cultural heritage.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Vembanad Lake

2. The Syrian Christian Church | Kanjikuzhi

The Syrian Christian Church is steeped harmoniously in rich history and traditions. It is a testament to the enduring faith and cultural heritage of Kerala's Christian community.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Kumarakom, Ettumanoor Mahadev Temple, Kottayam Cheriyappally

3. Assembly of God Town Church | Thirunakkara

The church is known for its serene ambience where you can spend all day long without any disruptions. People find it helpful to visit this church in times when they are stuck in their lives and seek guidance.

• Timings: Opens only on Sunday from 8:30 am to 1 pm
• Nearby Places: Bay Island Driftwood Musem, Kottayam Cheriyappally, Kumarakom

4. St. George Orthodox Church | Manarcadu

The church was built 400 years ago and still exists the same way it was constructed. Devotees have a strong belief that St.George protects them from bad omens like disasters, diseases and evil spirits.

• Timings: Opens for 24 hours on Sunday and Monday
• Nearby Places: Kumarakom, Thirunakkara Mahadev Temple, Bay Island Driftwood Museum

5. CSI Cathedral Church | Chalukunnu

The church is one of the most-visited churches in Kerela; hence it is considered one of the tourist attractions in Kottayam. Visitors from nearby towns especially attend the Sunday prayers.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vegamon, Poonjar Palace

6. Christ The King Cathedral | Erayilkadavu

The church is popular for its calm and peaceful grandeur. It is a must-visit church if you are in Kottayam. Visitors specifically spend their quality time in this church to meditate and for mental calmness.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Vaikom Mahadev Temple, Poonjar Palace, Kottayam Mahatma Gandhi Park

7. Manarcad Church | Manarcad

The church has great value among the visitors as it is the only internationally claimed church in Kottayam. It also organises a grand feast and fasting festival annually in September.

• Timings: Open for 24 hours, daily
• Nearby Places: Kottayam Boat Jetty, Poonjar Palace, Kottayam Mahatma Gandhi Park

8. Vimalagiri Church | Keezhur Kunnu

The church is well-known for its structure as it features a 172-foot-high tower in the building built in 1956, the highest tower in Kerala. The church is designed in a Gothic structure.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vegamon, Poonjar Palace

9. Marth Mariam Forane Church | Vazhappally West

The church is one of the ancient Roman Catholic Churches. It is adorned with stunning Roman architectural designs. The eye-catching point of the church is its staircase, which is quite picturesome.

• Timings: Opens daily from 6 am to 8 pm
• Nearby Places: Vaikom Mahadev Temple, Poonjar Palace, Kottayam Mahatma Gandhi Park

10. St. Stephen’s Marthoma Church | Vadavathoor

The church is famous for its beautiful vibes and surroundings. People visit this church with their families to seek blessings. It is believed that the peaceful environment allures visitors to come back.

• Timings: 6 am to 8 pm - Everyday
• Nearby Places: Vembanad Lake, Poonjar Palace, Vegamon

11. St. Mary's Orthodox Church | Kumarakom

The church is also popular by the name St.Mary’s Church. It is one of the oldest churches with a blend of Portuguese and Hindu architecture. The walls are designed with murals depicting the Holy Bible.

• Timings: Opens daily from 8 am to 8:30 pm
• Nearby Places: Vaikom Mahadev Temple, Kottayam Boat Jetty, Kottayam Mahatma Gandhi Park

The churches in Kottayam offer visitors a rich tapestry of religious heritage, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance. From ancient shrines steeped in history to modern marvels of design, each church presents a unique glimpse into the cultural and religious fabric of the region.