The divine celebration of Arthunkal Perunnal

Every January, Arthunkal Church turns into a cultural hub. It’s the occasion of Arthunkal Perunnal, also known as the feast of St. Sebastian. Celebrated from January 10th to 27th, this festival honours the revered saint. During these days, you can see the quiet coastal town of Arthunkal pulsing with the fervour of countless devotees coming from different parts of India.

But that’s not it. On January 20th, the true magic unfolds when the statue of St. Sebastian embarks on its grand procession and an ocean of humanity moves in unison. This procession creates a sight that must be seen to be believed. So, to make the most of your visit, you can plan your trip to Alappuzha in January.

Let’s take a walk inside

As you approach Arthunkal Church, its imposing structure rises against the beautiful skyline, inviting you into a world of tranquil devotion. It is said that initially, this church was made from wood, but in 1602, it got the stone facade that you see today. Step inside, and you'll find yourself enveloped in an atmosphere of calm that seems to wash away the outside world.

Keep exploring the premises, and you'll come across Rosary Park, a hidden gem within the church grounds. Here, twenty exquisitely crafted statues bring Christ's life to reality. As you stroll around and observe these sculptural masterpieces, you will learn about the pivotal moments of Christ's life unfolding before your eyes.