St George of Aruvithura, fondly known as 'Vallyachan' (Grand Papa or Grand Uncle) is the beloved divine intercessor for people from all walks of life. The small church located on the hilltop is modelled on the old church in Aruvithura. It is believed that St Thomas, during his extensive travels through South India, erected a wayside cross here which later fell into ruins. A 167 feet concrete cross was erected on top of the Kondoor Hills to commemorate this memory.
The Kondoor hills were later renamed Vallyachan Mala and the cross stands like a beacon guiding the followers forward in faith. Under the canopy of the shade-giving trees, the stone-clad path leads you uphill while the ever-present gentle breeze offers you company. The fourteen stations in the Way of the Cross add to the heavenly atmosphere. The model of the Holy Sepulchre of Christ kept in a vault underneath the Church is opened to the public on Good Friday. The 'Nalpamara Cross' made out of the bark of four different medicinal trees, is another speciality of this church. The Way of the Cross followed by Holy Mass and novena are important parts of the church's tradition.
The panoramic views from the top of the hill are unparalleled in their breathtaking beauty. On a clear day, one could even see other nearby attractions like Illickal Kallu, and Ilaveezhapoonchira. Vallyachan Mala welcomes devotees and tourists alike with its divine and peaceful beauty.
