Kurisumala Ashram

Situated in Vagamon in Kottayam-Idukki district border, the Kurisumala Ashram is a monastery in Syro-Malankara Catholic church that was set up in 1958. The name Kurisumala is composed of two words namely 'Kurisu' which means cross and 'Mala' which means mountain which is symbolic of the monks who spend a monastic life on the mount of the cross in the hill ranges. The monastery is situated at an elevation of 4000 feet above sea level. This place houses a community of spiritual seekers who leave their home and are not allowed to go back. The most attractive feature of the place that makes it worth visiting is that it is serene and silent here most of the times which is needed most to relax and introspect.

Monks who stay here spend their time working, studying, and praying. A holy mass takes place here the chants for which have been adopted from the Hindu form of worship. The monks at Kurusimala wear Khavi dress, walk barefoot and sit on the floor while having food. Also known as the 'mount of transfiguration', all those who visit this place attain peace of mind and feel good to be here.