Edathua Perunnal

About this place

The Edathua Perunnal is one of the most revered and spiritually significant Christian festivals in Kerala, celebrated annually at the historic St. George Forane Church, Edathua, in Alappuzha district in honor of Saint George (Mar Geevarghese). Recognized as one of the largest and most important feasts in the backwater region of central Kerala, the festival attracts tens of thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and visitors from across the state and beyond, irrespective of religion, who gather to seek the blessings, healing, protection, and intercession of Saint George. The grand feast, traditionally observed during late April to early May, begins with the ceremonial Kodiyettu (Flag Hoisting), marking the commencement of several days of solemn religious observances that include Holy Masses, novena prayers, special liturgical services, Eucharistic celebrations, confessions, and devotional gatherings conducted in an atmosphere of profound faith and reverence. One of the most cherished highlights of the Edathua Perunnal is the magnificent procession of the statue of Saint George, beautifully adorned with flowers and ceremonial decorations, as it is carried through the church premises and surrounding streets accompanied by clergy, altar servers, church choirs, traditional bands, devotional hymns, and thousands of faithful devotees carrying candles and offering prayers. The beautifully illuminated church, festive decorations, floral arrangements, and prayerful ambience transform Edathua into a vibrant center of Christian spirituality and community celebration. Throughout the festival, the church resonates with Malayalam and English hymns, gospel music, choir performances, and devotional songs, creating a spiritually uplifting environment that strengthens the faith of worshippers while preserving Kerala’s rich Christian musical traditions. Beyond its religious importance, the festival is widely admired for promoting interfaith harmony, as people from Hindu, Muslim, and Christian communities participate together in the celebrations, reflecting Kerala’s long-standing tradition of religious tolerance, mutual respect, and communal unity. The feast also serves as a major cultural gathering where families, pilgrims, and tourists come together to experience the region’s unique blend of spirituality, heritage, and community life. Local markets, food stalls, charitable activities, and social gatherings further enrich the festive atmosphere, making the occasion both spiritually meaningful and culturally vibrant. The historic St. George Forane Church, with its impressive architecture and centuries-old legacy, adds to the significance of the celebration, making it one of Kerala’s most prominent Christian pilgrimage destinations. Today, the Edathua Perunnal continues to stand as a powerful symbol of faith, devotion, compassion, and unity, preserving centuries-old Christian traditions while welcoming people from all walks of life. With its solemn liturgical celebrations, inspiring processions, sacred music, and enduring message of peace and harmony, the festival remains one of Kerala’s most iconic religious events and an essential destination for pilgrims, heritage enthusiasts, and cultural travelers seeking to experience the spiritual and cultural richness of central Kerala.

🚆 Railway: Thiruvalla Railway Station (nearest station, ~12–14 km)

(Alternate: Alappuzha Railway Station, ~25–30 km)

✈️ Airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery (~115–120 km)

🚌 Bus: Edathua Bus Stop → short walk to church (NH66 route connectivity)

🏨 Stay: Hotels, lodges, and homestays available in Edathua, Thiruvalla, and Alappuzha region

✅ Notes: Edathua Perunnal is the annual feast of St. George Forane Church, one of the most important Christian festivals in Kuttanad.