A legendary port in the maritime history of the world, Kodungalloor is located 35 kilometres south of Thrissur. Here one can witness the miraculous sight of the confluence of the Periyar River with the Arabian Sea. This is where the three major religions of Christianity, Judaism and Islam first stepped on the shores of God’s Own Country. This quaint town is a melting pot of vibrant cultures from across the world and has a rich legacy of culture, history and spirituality that has woven itself into the roots of the local coastal community. With a history that dates back centuries, Kodungalloor was once called the 'Rome of the East’, a gateway into India.

Known to the Greeks as the Port Muziris, Kodungalloor is surrounded by backwaters. A busy port in the first century BC, it was here that cargo vessels from West Asia, the Mediterranean and East Africa dropped anchor for trade. It is also believed that St. Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ set foot on the shores of Kodungalloor. In the 15th century, the area came under the influence foreign invaders including the Portuguese, Dutch and the British. 

Kodungalloor is home to some of the most important shrines of the major religions Christianity, Islam and Hinduism. 

The St. Thomas Church located here is considered to be the first Christian Church in India. It is believed to have been built by St. Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ who is said to have landed here in 52AD. This church houses ancient relics and is considered sacred by believers across the world. 

A unique mosque located here, the Cheraman Jama Masjid is considered to be the oldest mosque in India and the second oldest in the world that offers Jumah prayers. The interesting architectural style of Hindu temples is what is followed here. Originally constructed from wood, the mosque went through several renovations and changes over the years that brought in minarets made of concrete but the interiors still maintain the original wooden structure. One of the most important features of this mosque is the Kerala old lamp right at its heart that is always kept burning. The lamp is considered sacred by people from all walks of life. People even donate oil to the mosque for the lamp on auspicious family occasions. 

The Kodungalloor Bhagavati Temple is one of the most popular temples in Kerala. Believed to have been constructed during the reign of the Chera King - Cheran Senkuttuvan. One of the grandest festivals of the state, the Kodungalloor Bharani Festival is a month long celebration. This occasion gives you the unique opportunity of witnessing the largest congregation of oracles in Kerala. 

Apart from the many religious places of worship this town boasts of, Kodungalloor also is home to some very famous historic monuments. One of the most important among them is the ruins of the Kottappuram Fort. Constructed by the Portuguese in 1523 A.D. this fort is also known as the Cranganore Fort. In the year 1661 the Dutch took possession of it. Later the for came under the power of Tipu Sultan who destroyed it. Today these ruins are also known as Tipu’s Fort.