The Kodungalloor town is situated 35 kilometers south of Thrissur/ Trichur district. Kodungalloor was once an important and strategic port of the Chera rulers of Tamilnadu. The Greeks called it (Kodungalloor) as Muziris and is a place engrossed in rich history. Backwaters surround Kodungalloor. It is said to be the place where St. Thomas first preached Christianity in India. At Kodungalloor, there are worship places belonging to various religions.
Cheraman Juma Masjid
This mosque in Kodungalloor looks like a Hindu temple. It was earlier made of wood. Built in the year 629 A.D., it is the first mosque in India where Juma prayers were started. Recent changes have been made and it now has concrete minarets. The interiors remain wooden though with a Kerala oil lamp right in the center. This lamp is of great significance to people of all religions. Some of them bring oil for the lamp on the auspicious occasions of major family events.
Bhagawati Temple
The Bhagawati temple at Kodungallur is known throughout Kerala. The Bharani festival at the Bhagawati temple is one of the biggest in Kerala. It is a month of festivities and during this period, one can also witness the largest congregation of oracles, not seen anywhere in Kerala.
St.Thomas Church
Jesus Christ's apostle, St. Thomas is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (earlier Muziris) in 52 AD. The St. Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics. St. Thomas is portrayed in the gospels as a courageous and brave personality. He had preached the gospel from Ethiopia to China. At Kodungalloor, St. Thomas established the first Christian church in India and is the architect behind many other Churches in Kerala.