Temples in Marari
- 01
Cherthala Karthyayani Devi Temple
A Devi temple in the centre of Cherthala, linked by legend to the saint Vilwamangalam Swamiyar and known for its Cherthala Pooram festival.
- Time needed
- 45-60 minutes
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Early morning; avoid festival days unless you want crowds
- Tickets
- Dress modestly with footwear left outside. Rules for non-Hindu entry and photography are set by the temple; ask at the gate. No ticket is needed for darshan.
- 02
Mararikulam Mahadeva Temple
A Shiva temple in Mararikulam village, a short distance from the beach, known locally as one of the older temples in the district and for its annual Utsavam festival.
- Time needed
- 30-45 minutes
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Early morning, or during the annual festival if you are happy with crowds
- Tickets
- Dress modestly. Footwear is left outside. Entry rules for non-Hindus and photography rules vary by temple, so ask at the entrance before you go in. There is no ticket in the usual sense.
- 03
St Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal
A Gothic-style Catholic basilica on the Arabian Sea coast at Arthunkal, famous across Kerala for the January feast of St Sebastian.
- Time needed
- 1-1.5 hours
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Weekday mornings; avoid the January feast unless you want large crowds
- Tickets
- Free to enter. Dress modestly and be quiet during services. Visiting hours and Mass times are listed on the basilica's official site; check them before travelling, as the church closes in the evening.
Landmarks in Marari
- 04
Marari Beach
A long, uncrowded stretch of sand at Mararikulam, 11 km north of Alappuzha town, backed by coconut palms and fishing hamlets rather than a promenade.
- Time needed
- 2-3 hours, or a full day if you are staying nearby
- Walking
- Easy
- Best time
- Late morning to early evening between December and March; early morning or sunset for light and comfort
- Tickets
- No entry fee for the public beach. Facilities are minimal, so carry water and plan toilets around your hotel or a cafe stop. Swimming is at your own risk; look for local advice on the day.
Close enough to combine
Nearby places and day trips from Marari
Alappuzha BeachAlappuzha town's own beach, with the remains of an old sea pier, about 11 km south of Marari. It makes an easy evening stop on a town day.1-2 hours · Walking: EasyPathiramanal IslandA small, uninhabited island in Vembanad Lake, known for its birdlife and reached by boat from the Muhamma side.Half a day including the boat crossing · Walking: Moderate