Introduction

Edathua Church is a lovely medieval style structure from the 19th century dedicated to St. George. This colossal shrine nestles on the banks of River Pampa, about 24 kilometers (15 miles) from Alleppey on the Alleppey-Thiruvalla Road. According to legend, prayers and offerings made at this church help recover from mental imbalances and other ailments. The church is thronged with devotees especially during the annual feast from 27 April to 7 May (the Malayalam month of Medam). Though the festivities lasts for 11 days, the main celebration takes place only on the last few days before the feast day on the 6th of May. The holy mass and novena are held on all days of the festival, but only in Tamil and Malayalam.

At this time of the year, the church is beautifully spruced up with festoons and lights, and the statue of St. George is decked in gold before being carried out in a procession. Further on, the idol is placed on the dais at the centre of the basilica. Processions are carried out everyday - a dazzling display of fireworks on the initial and closing days of the feast add to the atmosphere of revelry. The church ground bustles with vendors selling all kinds of things from food, utensils to jewelry, and people flocking about to enjoy a snack or pick up some jewelry. You can also catch some cultural performances towards the evening.

Special Attributes

Set up in 1810, the Edathua Church was modeled after the medieval churches in Europe.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Avoid wearing short or revealing clothes.

Connectivity

You can take a private taxi to the church from Alleppey

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

The church is thronged with devotees especially during the annual feast from 27 April to 7 May (the Malayalam month of Medam).

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Maintain decorum

Type of site

Catholic church