Thiruvithamcode Arappally, Ancient Christian church in Kalkulam, India.

Thiruvithamcode Arappally measures 45 feet long, 15 feet wide and 10 feet high, built entirely of granite. Its three 17th-century sections are joined by a 20th-century entrance hall. The walls were dressed with a multi-tipped chisel, a technique known in Kerala and possibly brought by foreign contact in the 16th century. Inside are a Portuguese gift altar and censer, a baptismal font, a stone-pillar lamp, paintings and a tabernacle; a large cross and figures of Saints Peter and Paul are carved at the front entrance.

Tradition holds that Thomas the Apostle founded the church around 63–64 AD, and the Chera king Uthiyan Cheralathan named it Amalagiri; it became known as Arappally, the Royal Church. A rival tradition traces its origin to 64 Nasrani families from Mylapore fleeing persecution before the 9th century. The Synod of Diamper (1599) ordered its rebuilding in Portuguese style, and the present 17th-century structure dates from that decree.

Local people call the church Thomayar Kovil, and on the third day of the Tamil month of Panguni its St. Thomas feast draws devotees of all faiths, who take home the offering bread known as kaanikkai. Oil from the church's ever-burning lamp is prized by believers, who use it at home in the hope of curing illnesses and conceiving children.

The church stands in Manigramam, Thiruvithamcode, about 2 km from Thuckalay and 20 km from Nagercoil in Kanyakumari district. It is an active Malankara Orthodox parish with daily prayers, so visitors should time their visit around services. The building is entered through a 20th-century hall attached to the 17th-century stone church.

The stone walls display chiseling techniques that suggest external architectural influences from beyond the region. These construction details offer clues about historical connections with other cultures.