Nirmala Retreat Centre (NRC), Kulathuvayal is one of the most sought after centres for those who are thirsting for spiritual growth and renewal. It was started by Msgr. C J Varkey in 1985. Nirmala Retreat Centre (NRC) is situated at Chembra near Perambra in Calicut district of North Kerala, India. The spot which was handpicked by the Lord himself is surrounded by beautiful hills and natural streams. This serene and picturesque location is the place the Lord has chosen to make his glory known through the retreats.

NRC Kulathuvayal has been propagating the Word of God since its beginning.  Following the Lord’s command to preach the Good News to all creation (Mk16:15) the Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate conduct charismatic retreats every week in Malayalam and thrice a year in English. Offering courses on gifted counseling in Malayalam and English is the speciality of this centre. People flock to the centre in hundreds for the weekly and one day programmes and night vigils seeking spiritual rejuvenation and liberation from all sorts of evils, bondages of alcohol and drug addiction. Hundreds of healings have been witnessed over the years in the centre. More importantly all who attended retreats have experienced the powerful presence of God thus leading them to conversion and spiritual healing. In connection with ‘the year of consecrated’ they conduct an evening Spiritual programme named Ammayodoppam in various parishes of the diocese of Thamarassery and outside under the leadership of NRC. Sr. Tessin Andrews MSMI is the present coordinator of this centre.