URAKAM, KERALA – IMMERSE YOURSELF IN KERALA’S CULTURAL TAPESTRY

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Kerala, Urakam beckons travelers with its tranquil charm and unspoiled beauty. Tucked away in the Thrissur district, this quaint village offers a unique experience for those seeking a serene escape from the bustling city life. Urakam is a hidden gem that unveils the authentic essence of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage, lush greenery, and serene backwaters. With its mesmerizing natural beauty, traditional art forms, Ayurvedic wellness centers, and warm hospitality, Urakam invites visitors to immerse themselves in the true spirit of God’s Own Country. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat, cultural immersion, or an exploration of Kerala’s natural wonders, Urakam promises an enchanting journey that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.
Urakam offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat and here are some factors that make it a destination worth visiting:
- Nature’s Paradise: Urakam is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The village is surrounded by picturesque paddy fields, swaying coconut groves, and meandering backwaters. The soothing ambiance and refreshing air make it an ideal destination to reconnect with nature and rejuvenate the soul.
- Cultural Heritage: Urakam is steeped in cultural heritage and traditions. The village is known for its rich history, temples, and festivals. Visitors can witness traditional art forms like Theyyam, Kathakali, and Ottamthullal, which showcase the vibrant cultural tapestry of Kerala.
- Ayurvedic Wellness: The village is renowned for its Ayurvedic practices and wellness centers. Travelers can indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments, massages, and therapies to restore balance and harmony to their mind, body, and soul.
- Thrissur City: Urakam is located in close proximity to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic attractions, including the Vadakkunnathan Temple, Thrissur Zoo, and Kerala Kalamandalam, a renowned center for classical Indian arts.
- Festivals: Urakam celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm. The annual Pooram Festival at the nearby Thrissur Vadakkunnathan Temple is a grand spectacle featuring traditional music, dance performances, decorated elephants, and vibrant processions.
- Traditional Handicrafts: Urakam is known for its traditional handicrafts, including coir products, woodcarvings, and pottery. Travelers can visit local workshops and witness the skilled artisans creating intricate masterpieces.
Experiences for Tourists
Urakam, Kerala offers a range of delightful experiences for tourists. Here are some of the top experiences to enjoy in this serene village:
- Ayurvedic Wellness: Immerse yourself in the world of Ayurveda, an ancient healing system. Indulge in rejuvenating massages, therapeutic treatments, and wellness therapies offered by experienced practitioners. Experience the healing powers of Ayurveda to revitalize your mind, body, and soul.
- Backwater Cruises: Embark on a serene backwater cruise along the nearby rivers and canals. Glide through the tranquil waters on a traditional houseboat, witness the idyllic countryside, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush green surroundings. Enjoy delicious Kerala cuisine prepared onboard and relish the peaceful ambiance.
- Cultural Performances: Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage of Kerala by witnessing traditional art forms such as Kathakali, Theyyam, and Ottamthullal. Attend mesmerizing performances that showcase the rich traditions, elaborate costumes, and captivating storytelling of these classical art forms.
- Village Walks: Take leisurely walks through the picturesque village of Urakam. Explore the charming countryside, interact with friendly locals, and observe their daily way of life. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the people as you discover the hidden gems of the village.
- Temple Visits: Visit the ancient temples in and around Urakam to witness the spiritual and architectural grandeur. The Vadakkunnathan Temple in nearby Thrissur is particularly renowned for its intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance. Take part in the temple rituals and experience the spiritual ambiance.
- Nature Walks: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Urakam by going on nature walks. Explore the verdant landscapes, lush paddy fields, and swaying coconut groves. Breathe in the fresh air and listen to the symphony of birdsong as you reconnect with nature.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in the delectable flavors of Kerala by savoring the local cuisine. Try authentic dishes like appam, puttu, seafood delicacies, and traditional vegetarian meals. Visit local eateries and experience the culinary delights that Kerala is renowned for.
- Handicraft Shopping: Explore the local markets and shops to discover traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. From intricately woven coir products to exquisite wood carvings and pottery, take home a piece of Kerala’s artistic heritage as a cherished memento.
Top Attractions and Must See Places
Urakam, Kerala and its surrounding areas offer a variety of attractions and must-see places that showcase the region’s beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top attractions to explore:
- Vadakkunnathan Temple: Located in nearby Thrissur, the Vadakkunnathan Temple is an architectural marvel and a significant religious site. Admire the stunning Dravidian style of architecture, intricate carvings, and sacred shrines within the temple complex.
- Athirappilly Waterfalls: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Athirappilly Waterfalls, located about 60 kilometers from Urakam. This majestic waterfall cascades from a height of 80 feet and is surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the scenic views, take nature walks, and capture memorable photographs.
- Thrissur Zoo and Museum: Visit the Thrissur Zoo, also known as the State Museum and Zoo Complex, which houses a diverse collection of animals, birds, and reptiles. Explore the museum to learn about Kerala’s history, archaeology, and natural heritage.
- Kerala Kalamandalam: Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kerala at Kerala Kalamandalam, a premier institution for performing arts. Witness enthralling performances of classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as traditional music and theater.
- Arattupuzha Temple: Pay a visit to the ancient Arattupuzha Temple, located near Urakam. The temple is known for its annual festival, Arattupuzha Pooram, which features a grand procession of decorated elephants, traditional music, and cultural performances.
- Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, situated close to Urakam. This sanctuary is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and various bird species. Enjoy trekking, birdwatching, and nature photography in this serene sanctuary.
- Urakam Dam: One of the prominent attractions in Urakam is the Urakam Dam, a serene reservoir nestled amidst lush greenery. The dam offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
- Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple: Visit the Guruvayur Sri Krishna Temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala. This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
- Muziris Heritage Site: Discover the ancient port town of Muziris, a significant archaeological site that showcases the historical and cultural legacy of Kerala. Explore the remnants of ancient temples, churches, and synagogues, as well as the Muziris Heritage Museum.
- Thrissur Palace: Explore the grandeur of the Thrissur Palace, also known as the Vadakkekara Palace. Admire the traditional Kerala architecture, exquisite murals, and artifacts that depict the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Peechi Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary: Visit the Peechi Dam and Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Thrissur. Enjoy boating in the serene reservoir, surrounded by lush green forests. Take a safari through the wildlife sanctuary to spot elephants, deer, and various bird species.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Urakam, Kerala is during the winter months, from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and low humidity, making it comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Here are some reasons why this is the ideal time to visit:
- Mild Weather: During winter, the temperatures in Urakam are mild and range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to explore the attractions without feeling too hot or uncomfortable.
- Festivals: Winter is a festive season in Kerala, with various cultural festivals and temple celebrations taking place. Experience the vibrant colors, music, dance, and rituals during festivals like Thrissur Pooram and Arattupuzha Pooram, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Wildlife Spotting: Winter is a good time for wildlife enthusiasts, as the moderate temperatures encourage wildlife to come out in search of water and food. Take the opportunity to visit wildlife sanctuaries and national parks near Urakam, such as Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary, to spot diverse flora and fauna.
How to Reach
Urakam, Kerala is well-connected and can be reached by various modes of transportation. Here are the ways to reach Urakam:
By Air: The nearest airport to Urakam is the Cochin International Airport, located approximately 57 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked private cab to reach Urakam. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.
By Train: Urakam has its own railway station, called Urakam Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of the country. You can check the train schedules and book your tickets to Urakam Railway Station. From the station, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination within Urakam.
By Road: Urakam is well-connected to nearby cities and towns by road networks. You can travel by bus, private car, or taxi to reach Urakam. Thrissur, the major city closest to Urakam, is approximately 20 kilometers away. Regular bus services operate from Thrissur to Urakam, and taxis can also be hired for the journey. You can also drive your own vehicle to Urakam if you prefer a self-drive option.
Local Transportation: Once you reach Urakam, you can explore the village and its surrounding areas by auto-rickshaws or taxis. These modes of transportation are readily available and can be hired for local sightseeing or to visit nearby attractions.