Kalanjoor parish relics

About this place

St. George Orthodox Valiyapally in Chandanapally, commonly known as Chandanapally Valiyapally, is a prominent Christian pilgrimage centre of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church located in Chandanapally, Pathanamthitta district, Kerala. Dedicated to St. George, the church is recognised by the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church as one of the largest churches in South India and an important pilgrimage destination associated with the veneration of St. George. The first church at Chandanapally was established in the early 19th century, with the church's official history recording 1810 as the date of the first church. It was renovated in 1875 and subsequently reconstructed, with the present large structure completed around 2000. The current church is particularly notable for its distinctive Indo-Saracenic architectural character, incorporating elements associated with Christian, Hindu and Islamic artistic traditions. One of the most significant features of Chandanapally Valiyapally is the presence of holy relics associated with St. Geevarghese Sahada, which were ceremonially installed at the church in 2004. This has strengthened the site's importance as a destination for Orthodox Christian pilgrimage and religious tourism in Kerala. The church also contains the Kalkurishu, a stone cross decorated with carvings of saints and angels, which is an important devotional feature of the pilgrimage centre. The annual Chandanapally Perunal is the major religious celebration associated with the church and is traditionally observed in May, with the principal celebrations taking place around May 7 and 8. A distinctive tradition connected with the festival is Chempeduppu, involving rice cooked in a copper vessel and carried ceremonially as part of the celebrations before being offered to devotees. The tradition reflects the long-standing cultural character of the festival and its connection with the local community. Chandanapally Valiyapally is therefore more than a church building; it represents an important combination of Christian faith, pilgrimage, architecture and local cultural heritage in Pathanamthitta. Its large Indo-Saracenic structure, stone cross, saintly relics and annual festival make it a notable destination for visitors exploring Kerala's religious tourism and historic churches. The church is situated on Chandanapally–Koodal Road, and the official church website lists the premises as open for prayers from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Visitors can include the church in a wider Pathanamthitta travel itinerary covering nearby religious and cultural destinations around Chandanapally, Pandalam, Kaipattoor and Pathanamthitta. As an active place of worship, visitors should maintain respectful behaviour, observe appropriate dress and follow instructions concerning prayer areas, religious services and photography. The church's importance is rooted primarily in its spiritual and cultural traditions, while its distinctive architecture provides additional interest for travellers interested in heritage tourism. For those exploring Christian pilgrimage sites in Kerala, Chandanapally Valiyapally offers an opportunity to experience the continuing traditions of the Malankara Orthodox community and the devotional heritage surrounding St. George.

🚆 Nearest Railway: Chengannur Railway Station (~33 km)

✈️ Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (~110 km)

🚌 Bus: Chandanapally Junction / Chandanapally Bus Stop

🏨 Stay: Hotel Hills Park, Pathanamthitta; OYO 44093 Shanthi Residency, Pathanamthitta; Gavigate Homestay, Angamoozhy

✅ Notes: St. George Orthodox Valiyapally is a prominent Malankara Orthodox church on Chandanapally–Koodal Road, Pathanamthitta district, known for its St. George relics and traditional Chembuduppu observance.