The church houses a footprint and a mark of a knee on a rock, which tradition attributes to St. Thomas the Apostle.
The site was declared an international shrine by the Vatican in 2004.
The golden cross located at the shrine is believed to have appeared miraculously during the saint's stay.
The pilgrimage is known for the 'Malayattoor Perunnal,' which attracts millions of devotees during the first Sunday after Easter.
The church is located within the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
St. Thomas Syro Malabar Pilgrim Church, also known as Kurisumudi, is a major international pilgrimage site situated atop Malayattoor Hill in Kerala. The church commemorates the visit of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have prayed at this location in the first century AD. The sanctuary is located at an altitude of approximately 609 meters above sea level on the slope of the Anamudi mountain range. It is officially recognized by the Vatican as an international shrine. Pilgrims traditionally climb the hill on foot as an act of penance or devotion, following a winding trail marked by the Stations of the Cross. The current structure displays a blend of Greco-Roman and Kerala architectural elements. It serves as a significant center for the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, particularly during the annual Malayattoor Perunnal festival.
The viewpoint near the upper shrine offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding Western Ghats and the Periyar River valley.
Wear footwear with high-traction soles suitable for a steep, potentially slippery incline.
Carry sufficient hydration, as the climb to the summit requires physical exertion.
Visit during the early morning hours to avoid the peak heat of the tropical sun.
Attempting the climb during the peak heat of midday or during heavy monsoon rains when the path can become hazardous.
The site experiences massive crowds during the week following Easter; expect limited accessibility during extreme weather conditions.
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required; remove shoes before entering the inner sanctum; maintain silence as it is a place of active prayer.
