St. Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal

St. Andrew's Basilica in Arthunkal is a historic Catholic pilgrimage center located on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Alappuzha district, Kerala. Originally constructed by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, it was elevated to basilica status in 2010. The site is globally renowned as the largest shrine of St. Sebastian and hosts the grand annual Arthunkal Perunnal festival in January, attracting millions of devotees.

Visitors can expect a serene coastal religious setting with Gothic architecture facing the Arabian Sea. The complex includes the main basilica, an older historic church, and Rosary Park. Pilgrims engage in prayer, novenas, and viewing the sacred statue of St. Sebastian. The atmosphere is particularly vibrant during the January feast but remains peaceful for daily visits.

Constructed by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, with the first wooden church built in 1581 and rebuilt in stone in 1584 under Fr. Giacomo Fenicio. It was elevated to the status of a Minor Basilica by Pope Benedict XVI on July 9, 2010, becoming the seventh basilica in Kerala.

A major Christian pilgrimage center in South India, famous for the devotion to St. Sebastian and the month-long Arthunkal Perunnal festival held every January, which attracts millions of pilgrims from across India and abroad.