Arthunkal Church Alappuzha: A Place of History, Faith and Tradition
On the coastal side of Alappuzha, surrounded by the familiar landscapes of Kerala, stands St. Andrew’s Basilica at Arthunkal, widely known as Arthunkal Church.
The basilica is one of the important pilgrimage destinations in the region. While the church is dedicated to St. Andrew the Apostle, its identity is also strongly connected with St.Sebastian and the annual Arthunkal Perunnal.
For travellers, Arthunkal is more than a place of worship. Its centuries-old history, coastal setting, local traditions and connection with Kerala’s pilgrimage culture make it an interesting destination to include in an Alappuzha trip.
Where Is Arthunkal Church?
Arthunkal Basilica is located at Arthunkal P.O., Cherthala, Alappuzha, Kerala – 688530.
The church is situated in the coastal part of Alappuzha district and can be reached from Cherthala, Alappuzha, Kochi and several other parts of Kerala. Alappuzha Travel Guide: 10 Amazing Reasons to Visit
Its location also makes it possible to combine a visit to the basilica with destinations such as Marari Beach, Alappuzha and other attractions around the Cherthala coastal region.
The History of Arthunkal Church
The story of Arthunkal Church goes back several centuries.
According to the Basilica’s historical records, a church dedicated to St. Andrew was established at Arthunkal in 1581 after permission was granted by the local ruler. The first structure was built using wood and coconut leaves.
A few years later, the Italian Jesuit priest Giacomo Fenicio became an important figure in Arthunkal’s history. He served the community for many years and is remembered as the Apostle of Arthunkal.
Fenicio obtained permission to rebuild the church in stone, helping establish Arthunkal as an important centre of missionary activity in the region.
The church was rebuilt and renovated several times throughout its history.
Construction of the present granite church began in the early 20th century. The new church was eventually completed and blessed in 1967.
Another important chapter came in 2010, when St. Andrew’s Church, Arthunkal was granted Basilica status. The recognition was formally declared in October that year.
Today, the basilica remains an important landmark in the religious and cultural landscape of Alappuzha.
The Connection With St. Sebastian
Although the church carries the name of St. Andrew, Arthunkal is particularly famous for its devotion to St. Sebastian.
The Basilica’s historical records state that a statue of St. Sebastian was brought to Arthunkal from Italy in 1647. Devotion to the saint gradually became one of the defining traditions of the church.
Over generations, people from different communities have travelled to Arthunkal to pray and participate in the traditions associated with St. Sebastian.
This long-standing devotion is one of the main reasons Arthunkal developed into a major pilgrimage destination.
Why Is Arthunkal Church Famous?
There are several reasons why Arthunkal continues to attract visitors.
Its long history makes it an important religious heritage site in Kerala.
The devotion to St. Sebastian has given the church a special identity that extends well beyond the local community.
The annual Arthunkal Perunnal brings large crowds to the area every January.
The basilica’s location near the Arabian Sea also gives the surrounding area a distinctive coastal atmosphere.
Another fascinating part of Arthunkal’s identity is its connection with pilgrims returning from Sabarimala, reflecting the pilgrimage traditions that have developed across Kerala over many generations.
Arthunkal Perunnal
The Arthunkal Perunnal is the most famous annual celebration associated with the basilica.
The feast of St. Sebastian is traditionally celebrated from January 10 to January 27. The procession carrying the statue of St. Sebastian towards the beach on January 20 is one of the major highlights.
During the feast, large numbers of pilgrims arrive from different parts of Kerala and beyond.
The normally peaceful surroundings become much busier, with religious ceremonies, processions and traditional offerings taking place throughout the celebration.
The Basilica also observes the Ettam Perunnal, held on the eighth day after the principal feast.
If you want to experience Arthunkal during the Perunnal, January is the time to visit. However, visitors should expect large crowds, busy roads and increased demand for transportation.
Arthunkal and the Sabarimala Connection
Arthunkal also has an interesting connection with Sabarimala pilgrimage traditions.
The Basilica records a long-standing custom in which pilgrims returning from Sabarimala visit Arthunkal and pay homage to St. Sebastian.
This tradition is particularly interesting for travellers who want to understand the diverse religious traditions that have developed across Kerala.
Mass Timings at Arthunkal Basilica
The Basilica currently publishes the following regular Mass schedule.
Mass Timings at Arthunkal Basilica
Plan your visit to Arthunkal Basilica with the regular Mass and prayer schedule below. Timings may vary during feast days and special occasions.
Sunday
Sunday Mass Schedule
Weekdays
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday
Thursday
Mass, Novena & Eucharistic Adoration
Before You Visit
The Basilica currently states that the church closes at 8:30 PM. Mass schedules can change during feast days, religious celebrations and special occasions, so it is best to confirm the schedule before travelling.
How to Reach Arthunkal Church
Arthunkal is connected by road with several major towns and cities in Kerala.
The easiest route depends on where your journey begins.
Find Your Route to Arthunkal Basilica
Planning a visit to St. Andrew’s Basilica at Arthunkal? Choose your starting location below and use the Google Maps connection to get a live route directly to the Basilica.
Nearby Starting Points
From Alappuzha
From Central Kerala
From South Kerala
From North Kerala
From Kerala Hill Destinations
From Major Kerala Airports
Major Railway Starting Points
From Outside Kerala
Starting Somewhere Else?
Enter your own starting location in Google Maps and navigate directly to St. Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal.
🗺️ Open Arthunkal Basilica in Google MapsFrom Cherthala
Cherthala is one of the closest major towns to Arthunkal.
The journey can be made by local bus, taxi, auto-rickshaw or private vehicle.
Route: Cherthala → Arthunkal Basilica
From Cherthala Railway Station
For travellers arriving by train, Cherthala Railway Station is the nearest railway station listed by Kerala Tourism, at approximately 8 km from Arthunkal.
From the station, visitors can continue by taxi, auto-rickshaw or local bus.
Route: Cherthala Railway Station → Arthunkal Basilica
From Cherthala Bus Stand
Cherthala is an important bus connection for travellers coming from different parts of Kerala.
From the bus stand, you can continue towards Arthunkal by local bus or taxi.
Route: Cherthala Bus Stand → Arthunkal Basilica
From Alappuzha
Alappuzha is one of the most popular bases for travellers exploring the region.
Visitors staying in Alappuzha town can travel towards Arthunkal by bus, taxi or private vehicle.
Route: Alappuzha → Arthunkal Basilica
From Alappuzha Railway Station
Travellers arriving by train at Alappuzha Railway Station can continue towards Arthunkal by road.
Kerala Tourism lists Alappuzha Railway Station at approximately 22 km from Arthunkal.
Route: Alappuzha Railway Station → Arthunkal Basilica
From Alappuzha KSRTC Bus Stand
Visitors arriving at the Alappuzha bus stand can take a local bus, taxi or auto-rickshaw towards Arthunkal.
Route: Alappuzha KSRTC Bus Stand → Arthunkal Basilica
From Marari Beach
If you are staying near Marari Beach, Arthunkal can be included as part of a coastal Kerala day trip.
Route: Marari Beach → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kochi and Ernakulam
Kochi is an important starting point for travellers arriving from outside Alappuzha district.
Kochi → Arthunkal Basilica
Ernakulam → Arthunkal Basilica
Fort Kochi → Arthunkal Basilica
Travellers coming from Kochi can combine Arthunkal with other destinations around Cherthala and Alappuzha.
From Cochin International Airport
For visitors arriving by air, Cochin International Airport is an important access point.
Kerala Tourism lists Cochin International Airport at approximately 85 km from Arthunkal. Actual road distance and travel time can vary depending on the route and traffic.
Route: Cochin International Airport → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kottayam
Travellers coming from Kottayam can reach Arthunkal by road and include the basilica as part of a wider central Kerala itinerary.
Route: Kottayam → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kumarakom
Visitors staying around Kumarakom can combine Arthunkal with a trip towards Alappuzha and the Cherthala coastal region.
Route: Kumarakom → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kollam
Travellers starting from Kollam can follow the route towards Alappuzha and then continue towards Arthunkal.
Route: Kollam → Arthunkal Basilica
From Thiruvalla and Changanassery
Travellers from central Kerala can use the following routes:
Thiruvalla → Arthunkal Basilica
Changanassery → Arthunkal Basilica
From Pathanamthitta
Travellers from Pathanamthitta can use the current road route towards Arthunkal.
Route: Pathanamthitta → Arthunkal Basilica
From Munnar
If you are travelling through Kerala’s hill country, Arthunkal can be included as part of a longer road trip. Munnar Travel Guide: Ultimate Places, Routes & Amazing Tips
Route: Munnar → Arthunkal Basilica
From Thekkady
Travellers visiting Thekkady can also plan Arthunkal as part of a longer Kerala itinerary.
Route: Thekkady → Arthunkal Basilica
From Thrissur
Visitors coming from Thrissur can travel towards Kochi and continue south towards Cherthala and Arthunkal.
Route: Thrissur → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kozhikode
Travellers from northern Kerala can use the current road route towards Arthunkal.
Route: Kozhikode → Arthunkal Basilica
From Kannur
Visitors travelling from Kannur can plan Arthunkal as part of a longer journey through Kerala.
Route: Kannur → Arthunkal Basilica
From Thiruvananthapuram
Travellers from Kerala’s capital can travel north towards Alappuzha and Cherthala before continuing to Arthunkal.
Route: Thiruvananthapuram → Arthunkal Basilica
Travelling to Arthunkal From Outside Kerala
Arthunkal can also be reached by travellers coming from other states.
For long-distance journeys, it is often easier to first reach a major transport hub in Kerala and then continue by road.
Useful starting points include Bengaluru, Chennai, Coimbatore, Mysuru and Mangaluru.
Bengaluru → Arthunkal Basilica
Chennai → Arthunkal Basilica
Coimbatore → Arthunkal Basilica
Mysuru → Arthunkal Basilica
Mangaluru → Arthunkal Basilica
For these long journeys, avoid relying on a fixed travel time because traffic, road conditions, weather and route selection can change the journey considerably.
Major Railway Starting Points
Travellers arriving by train can consider:
- Cherthala Railway Station
- Alappuzha Railway Station
- Ernakulam Junction
- Ernakulam Town
- Kottayam Railway Station
Among these, Cherthala Railway Station is the nearest major railway access point, at approximately 8 km from Arthunkal according to Kerala Tourism.
Major Airport Starting Points
Visitors arriving by air can consider:
- Cochin International Airport
- Trivandrum International Airport
- Calicut International Airport
- Kannur International Airport
For most travellers arriving from outside Kerala, Cochin International Airport is the most relevant airport to consider.
Taxi, Auto and Local Transport
Taxi and auto-rickshaw services are useful for the final part of the journey, particularly when arriving at Cherthala Railway Station or travelling with luggage.
Instead of relying on a fixed taxi fare, it is better to confirm the current fare before starting the journey.
When using a navigation app, search for St. Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal.
The official Basilica address is:
Arthunkal P.O.
Cherthala, Alappuzha
Kerala – 688530
Best Time to Visit Arthunkal
There are two different experiences depending on what you are looking for.
For a quieter visit, consider travelling outside the major feast period. Weekdays can provide a more relaxed atmosphere around the basilica.
If you want to experience the famous Arthunkal Perunnal, January is the important month.
The Basilica states that the feast runs from January 10 to January 27, with the January 20 procession being one of the major events.
During the feast, expect large crowds and busy roads. Give yourself extra time for transportation and parking.
Things to Know Before Visiting
Check the latest Mass schedule before travelling.
Dress respectfully when entering the basilica.
Keep conversations quiet inside the church.
Follow any instructions regarding photography.
Expect considerably larger crowds during the January feast.
If you are travelling during Perunnal, start your journey early.
Allow extra time for traffic around the basilica during major celebrations.
Use Google Maps for the current road route.
If you are travelling by train, Cherthala is the closest railway station.
If you are using public transport, ask the conductor or driver for the appropriate Arthunkal stop.
Nearby Places to Visit
Arthunkal works particularly well as part of a larger Alappuzha or coastal Kerala itinerary.
Marari Beach
Marari is a popular beach destination and can be combined with Arthunkal on a coastal trip.
Route: Marari Beach → Arthunkal Basilica
Alappuzha
Alappuzha is famous for its backwaters, canals, beaches and traditional Kerala landscapes.
A visit to Arthunkal can easily be added to an Alappuzha itinerary.
Cherthala
Cherthala is an important transport point for reaching Arthunkal and can be used as the starting point for visitors arriving by train or bus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Arthunkal Church?
Arthunkal Church, officially St. Andrew’s Basilica, is located at Arthunkal P.O., Cherthala, Alappuzha, Kerala 688530.
What is Arthunkal Church famous for?
The basilica is particularly famous for its devotion to St. Sebastian and the annual Arthunkal Perunnal.
Who is Arthunkal Basilica dedicated to?
The basilica is dedicated to St. Andrew the Apostle, while devotion to St. Sebastian has become central to Arthunkal’s identity.
When was the first church built at Arthunkal?
The first church dedicated to St. Andrew was established in 1581.
When was the present church completed?
The present granite church was completed and blessed in 1967.
When did Arthunkal Church become a basilica?
St. Andrew’s Church, Arthunkal received Basilica status in 2010.
When is Arthunkal Perunnal celebrated?
The principal feast is traditionally celebrated from January 10 to January 27, with the January 20 procession being one of the main attractions.
Which railway station is closest to Arthunkal?
Cherthala Railway Station is the nearest railway station listed by Kerala Tourism, approximately 8 km from Arthunkal.
How far is Alappuzha Railway Station from Arthunkal?
Kerala Tourism lists Alappuzha Railway Station at approximately 22 km from Arthunkal.
Which airport should I use to reach Arthunkal?
Cochin International Airport is the main airport to consider for visitors arriving by air.
Can people from different religions visit Arthunkal Basilica?
Yes. Arthunkal has a long tradition of welcoming pilgrims and visitors from different communities.
Final Thoughts
Arthunkal is one of those destinations where Kerala’s history, faith, traditions and coastal character come together in one place.
The story begins centuries ago with the establishment of the church dedicated to St. Andrew and continues through the work of missionaries such as Giacomo Fenicio. The arrival of the St. Sebastian statue in the 17th century eventually gave Arthunkal another powerful identity that continues today.
The Arthunkal Perunnal brings the destination to life every January, while the rest of the year offers visitors a quieter opportunity to explore the basilica and its surroundings.
Whether you are travelling from Alappuzha, Kochi, Kottayam, Kollam, northern Kerala, southern Kerala or another part of India, Arthunkal can be reached through the region’s road, rail and air connections.
For a traveller, the best part is that Arthunkal does not need to be a complicated stop. It can easily be added to a wider journey through Alappuzha, Marari, Cherthala and Kerala’s coastal villages.
If you are looking for a place where history, pilgrimage and the character of coastal Kerala meet, Arthunkal is a destination worth discovering.
