St. Thomas Forane Church - Palayoor - History, Timings & Entry Fee
Pilgrimage
#29 of 30 Places to Visit in Thrissur
Distance (From Thrissur): 32 Kms
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour
Place Location: 4 Kms From Guruvayoor
Transportation Options: Cab / Bus
Travel Tips: This place can be visited from Guruvayoor (4 Kms)
At a distance of 32 Kms from Thrissur Railway Station & 4 Kms from Guruvayoor, St. Thomas Forane Church located in Palayoor is the oldest church in India, established by St.Thomas in 52 AD.
This is one of the seven churches founded by St.Thomas the Apostle. A silver statue of St.Thomas on the roof and charming stone lamps are special features of the church. The main entrance of the church is decorated with 14 granite life size statues of various scenes from the life of St. Thomas. The jubilee door in front of the entrance to the main hall of the church portrays various important biblical events, carved in Burmese teak.
Palayoor Mahatheerthadanam is the main festival celebrated at this church. Devotees walk all the way from Thrissur to Palayoor church carrying wooden crosses.
