Top places to visit

St. Mary's Orthodox Syrian Church, Kottayam (Valiyapally)

Location: Near Kottayam town
Highlights: Oldest Syrian Christian church in India, architecture, murals

 Description:

This 16th-century church is a major pilgrimage center for Syrian Christians. Built in 1579, it showcases Persian crosses, old inscriptions in Syriac and Malayalam, and Portuguese-Dutch-style architecture. The church is revered for its spiritual atmosphere and historical importance.

 Special Feature:

• Houses a Persian stone cross inscribed in Pahlavi script
• Beautiful mural paintings of Biblical scenes

Best Time: Throughout the year

Entry Fee: Free

Photography: Allowed with respect