Parumala Church – A Sacred Pilgrimage Destination in Kerala
Parumala Church is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage centres often included in Kerala holiday packages focused on spiritual and heritage travel. Located on the serene banks of the Pampa River near Kottayam, this historic church attracts thousands of devotees and travelers every year. Kerala is known for its rich religious harmony, and Parumala Church stands as a symbol of deep faith, history, and architectural beauty.
Parumala was once a small stretch of land where Malankara Metropolitan Joseph Mar Dionysius envisioned establishing a seminary to teach deacons. Over time, a church was built here, and it gradually grew into a major pilgrimage centre. Today, the church and the saint associated with it act like a spiritual magnet, drawing visitors not only from Kerala but from across India and abroad.
How the Land for the Old Church was acquired
Image by Gramam via Wikimedia
Brahmins inhabited this area before. Over time, however, they left the place, and the wilderness consumed this place.
About Parumala Thirumeni of Parumala Church
The Metropolitan Joseph Mar Dionysius gave the charges of the seminary to Metropolitan Mar Gregorios. He later became famous as Parumala Thirumeni. Parumala Thirumeni sought to find respite to the problems that people had. He preached the idea that prayer is the most powerful medium to get in touch with God.
He built a temporary church and consecrated it on 27th January 1895. The expansion of the Parumala Church happened over the years, until 1960. The Foundation stone for the new church was laid on 19th March 1995 by His Holiness Baselius Marthoma Mathews II, Catholicos of the East. The old church, except for The Holy Altar
In 1995, they built a new church that can accommodate more than 2000 devotees. It is magnificent and has a circular design, with an inner diameter of 39 meters. On 27th October 2000, they conducted consecration rites. Holiness Baselius Marthoma Mathews II and a host of dignitaries led the ceremony. Thus, the new church indeed professes the traditional culture and heritage the great saint sought to spread.
Parumala Perunnal Parumala Church
Parumala Perunnal is the most noted event in the Parumala Church. People from all over Kerala reach the place to celebrate the death anniversary of Bishop Mar Gregorios Metropolitan. He is also the first canonized saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church of Kerala. The streets are beautifully decorated on the feast day, followed by a magnificent procession that sparkles the eye.
Mar Gregorios Metropolitan performed a three-fold service for the church. He was acting as Diocesan administration, Ministerial formation of deacons and Missionary witness of the church. Apart from these duties, he had also worked hard to build a church and seminary at Parumala.
The Metropolitan remains a beacon of hope and love among the residents of Malankara and devotees. He set an example of himself by professing undying love for God and visited Jerusalem in 1895. He even wrote a book in Malayalam about his visit to Jerusalem. During his bishopric reign, Mar Gregorios Metropolitan established several churches and built several schools. However, it was the Parumala church that was the main spiritual centre for Geeverghese.
Conclusion
A visit to Parumala Church in Thiruvalla is more than just a trip — it is a deeply spiritual experience that fills your heart with peace and positivity. The calm surroundings along the banks of the Pampa River and the divine presence of Saint Gregorios make this pilgrimage truly unforgettable.
For travelers exploring Kerala tour packages that include spiritual and heritage destinations, Parumala Church stands out as a place where faith, history, and serenity come together beautifully.
As the inspiring words of Mar Gregorios remind us, “Prayer is the inspiration of childhood, a refuge of youth and peace during old age.” A visit here lets you feel the true meaning of those words, leaving your mind calm and your soul uplifted.