God’s own Country it is!!! The secular state of Kerala is home to all forms of vibrant spiritual destinations. Coco Pilgrim welcomes you on board to witness the meeting of architecture, art, knowledge, history, and spirituality, of course. Though the majority comprises Hindus, other religions also own a fair share in the spiritual wealth of the state. The richest temple in the country, Padmanabhaswamy Temple situated in the state capital of Trivandrum is a commendable historic monument attracting thousands every day.
Sabarimala is a Hindu holy site dedicated to Lord Dharmasastha and is reported to be the second largest pilgrimage in the world. Surrounded by seven major hill ranges and seven minor ranges the abode of this saintly God can only be reached through trekking 4.5 km and climbing 18 Golden steps. Coco Pilgrim helps you learn and experience the spiritual air of the state without hurting the religious sentiments of locale.
The elephant race, sculptures, murals, arts like Krishananattom and Ayurvedic treatments make Lord Krishna’s temple at Guruvayoor a must during the visit. St Thomas, the apostle set foot in Kodungallur in AD 52 and Christianity was born in Kerala. The Seven and a Half churches or Ezharapallikal established by him across the state are internationally acknowledged pilgrimage centers.
In Kerala, you’ll find a church, chapel or holy cross every 100 m. Christianity isn’t a foreign religion anymore but is deeply penetrated to the culture of Kerala giving it a unique and native tint. An excellent blend of Hinduism and Christianity can be seen in the architecture of the historic church in Kadamattom Jacobite SyrianOrthodox church built in 6 AD.
The hilltop church of Malayattor is devoted to St Thomas and is believed to possess magical spiritual powers of healing. Parumala church, Santa Cruz Basilica, St Francis church in Fort Cochi and St Mary’s Church, Kuravilangadu are some of the many in the long list of must-see churches in the state. Both the churches and mosques are called “PALLI” in Kerala.
The religious harmony and interconnectedness are evident in the architecture, practices, and history of all the religions. Coco Pilgrim will surprise you by surpassing your expectations on the religious history of Kerala with a visit to CheramanPalli (ChermanJuma Masjid), Kodungallor, which is the oldest and World’s second mosque built in 625 AD after Medina Mosque. Kerala Emperor Chera’s palace was converted into a mosque when he converted to Islam.
The Mughal style architecture Pazhayangadi Mosque is a distinct attraction in Malappuram and the annual festival of VeliyaNercha is popular near and far. The 1000-year-old mosque ThazhathangadyJuma Masjid in one of the Heritage zones of Kerala is a visual treat. “ADITHI DEVO BAVA” is the sermon that teaches us to treat our guests like Gods. In Kerala, you’ll experience God and will be treated as one!!!!
