St. Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal - A Historic Pilgrimage Church in Alleppey

Alleppey, KeralaRELIGIOUS

A major Roman Catholic basilica in Alleppey, renowned for the annual feast of St. Sebastian and its serene location by the Arabian Sea.

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Info

RELIGIOUS

Info

1 hour

Accessibility

Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

St. Andrew's Basilica, more commonly known as Arthunkal Church, is a significant Christian pilgrimage center located near the coast in the Alappuzha district. Originally built by Portuguese missionaries, the current massive white structure facing the Arabian Sea is an impressive sight. The interior of the church is spacious and peaceful, designed to accommodate large congregations. The main altar is ornate, and several smaller chapels and statues are found within the complex. The most famous element is the statue of St. Sebastian, which was brought from Milan, Italy. Visitors experience a calm and spiritual atmosphere, distinct from the usual tourist spots. The grounds are expansive, and the proximity to Arthunkal Beach allows for a combined spiritual and natural experience. Many visitors, irrespective of their faith, come here to seek blessings, especially during the annual feast.

Contact Information

Phone: -2872610

Email: mail@arthunkalbasilica.org

Why This Place is Special

• The annual feast of St. Sebastian ('Arthunkal Perunnal') in January
• The miraculous statue of St. Sebastian with arrows
• Its location right next to Arthunkal Beach
• Large, white facade and European architectural style
• A major Christian pilgrimage destination in Kerala
• Historical connection with Portuguese missionaries
• Attracting devotees from various religious backgrounds

Ideal For

PilgrimsFamiliesHistory enthusiastsPhotographersSolo travelersGroups

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Seating areas
• Prayer hall
• Souvenir shops
• Information center
• First aid

Visitor Tips

• Visit during the annual feast in January for a unique cultural experience, but be prepared for very large crowds.
• For a peaceful visit, choose a weekday morning between 7 AM and 10 AM.
• Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
• Combine your visit with a walk on the adjacent Arthunkal Beach, especially during sunset.
• Carry a hat, sunglasses, and water, as the coastal area can be sunny and humid.
• Photography is generally allowed outside, but be discreet and respect prayer times inside the church.
• Check the mass schedule in advance if you wish to attend a service.
• The area can be sandy, so wear footwear that is easy to remove before entering the church.

Rules & Restrictions

• Maintain silence within the main church and prayer areas.
• Remove shoes before entering the basilica.
• Dress modestly
• revealing clothing is not permitted.
• No food or beverages allowed inside the main prayer hall.
• Mobile phones should be switched to silent mode.
• No smoking or consumption of alcohol on the premises.

Safety Information

• Be cautious of your belongings, especially during the crowded festival season.
• The nearby beach has strong currents at times
• be careful if you decide to go near the water.
• Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months from March to May.
• Follow the instructions of church authorities and volunteers, particularly during festivals.
• Use the designated areas for parking to avoid traffic congestion.
• Inform the church office or security personnel in case of any emergency.

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Location & Address

Arthunkal P.O., Cherthala, Alappuzha, Arthunkal, Alleppey, Kerala, India

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Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for exploring. January is the most significant month due to the Arthunkal Perunnal (feast), but it is also extremely crowded. The summer months from April to May can be very hot and humid. The monsoon season, from June to September, sees heavy rainfall which might disrupt travel plans.
Peak Crowd: January (especially during the feast days), weekends in December and May.
Moderate Crowd: October-December, February-April on weekdays.
Low Crowd: June-September during the monsoon season and weekday afternoons.

How to Reach

Air

Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located about 75 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi which takes around 1.5-2 hours to reach.

Train

The nearest railway station is Cherthala (SHI), about 8 km away. Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP) is a major hub, approximately 22 km away, with better connectivity to major cities.

Road

The basilica is situated near the coastal highway (NH 66). It is well-connected by road to Alappuzha (22 km) and Kochi (45 km). State-run and private buses operate regularly on this route.

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws and local taxis are widely available from Cherthala and Alappuzha towns. Local buses also have a stop near the basilica.