Thrikkakara is an active suburb in the city of Kochi in Kerala, and it has cultural amalgamation and several attractions. As for the location, it is located by the splendid Periyar River. It unites the old traditions and new growth, so it is notable for visitors. This is where the widely known Thrikkakara Temple is located, one of the most revered Hindu temples among the faithful. There are, however, calm backwaters, which interconnect and pass through the mentioned region. Thrikkakara provides tourists with pleasant pictorial and audio visions and tours that portray the Kerala identity. Whether a spiritual experience, cultural exploration, or a quiet place to be, one will surely be touched and enriched at Thrikkakara.
Best 10 Places To Visit In Thrikkakara
Thrikkakara is a dynamic town situated in the picturesque state of Kerala in southern India. There is so much for visitors to do and see. Whether one is in search of spiritual pursuits, nature’s marvels, or assimilation into culture, Thrikkakara has a plethora of offers for tourists.
1. Thrikkakara Temple
Image Credit: Ganesh Mohan T for Wikimedia Commons
Thrikkakara Temple sits in Thrikkakara’s centre, known for its rich spiritual heritage. Lord Vishnu is revered here. Its striking design and frequent celebrations gain attention. Believed to be built in the 8th century CE by the legendary sage Parasurama, it showcases the area’s artistic mastery. A grand entry tower, intricate sculptures, and detailed frescoes glorify its walls and roofs. As you step inside, serenity and reverence envelop you.
The temple’s primary area shelters Lord Vishnu’s magnificent statue, drawing worshippers from far and near. Rituals performed by committed priests reflect age-old Kerala spiritual customs. Throughout the year, Thrikkakara Temple hosts vibrant celebrations, each signifying a distinct local custom. Notably, Thrikkakara Pooram is a grand festival that pulls in thousands of crowds.
Location: Thrikkakara, Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 4:00 AM to 12:00 PM
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2. Thrikkakara Backwaters
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The Thrikkakara Backwaters, in green-rich Kerala, are a peaceful getaway. It’s a huge web of canals, lakes, and waterways. Perfect for nature buffs, it shows you a timeless local lifestyle. An eye-catching green panorama surrounds you as you sail. Palm trees, vast paddy fields, and the soothing wave sound complete this calming scene. It’s a gentle, relaxing experience for all.
Meander through the Thrikkakara Backwaters to see local life—people using the waterways for transport, fishing, and farming. Traditional houseboats, known as “kettuvallams,” might pass by. Locals may be working on their crops or making coir. Additionally, the backwaters house diverse wildlife, including birds like the Siberian crane and many fish species. Take a guided boat tour, stay on a houseboat, and soak in this serene natural treasure.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
3. Thrikkakara Boat Races
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The Thrikkakara Boat Races are a captivating and time-honoured tradition that takes place along the serene backwaters of Thrikkakara, Kerala. This annual event, celebrated for centuries, is a vibrant display of the region’s rich cultural heritage and the deep-rooted connection between the local community and the waterways that sustain them. As the sun rises over the glistening waters, the tranquil backwaters come alive with the sound of pounding drums and the cheers of enthusiastic spectators.
Sleek, colourful boats, manned by teams of skilled rowers, glide across the surface, their oars cutting through the water in perfect synchronisation. The air is electric with anticipation as the races unfold, with each team striving to outpace their rivals and claim victory. Beyond the thrilling competition, the Thrikkakara Boat Races are a celebration of the region’s unique way of life. Spectators are treated to a rich tapestry of traditional music, dance, and culinary delights, all of which are deeply woven into the fabric of the local culture. The event also serves as a platform for showcasing the region’s artisanal crafts, from intricate coir weaving to the construction of the iconic Kettuvallam houseboats.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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4. Thrikkakara Coir Village
Image Credit: Thamizhpparithi Maari for Wikimedia Commons
Nestled along the serene backwaters of Thrikkakara, the Thrikkakara Coir Village is a captivating hub of traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. This vibrant community has long been renowned for its expertise in the production of coir, a versatile and eco-friendly fibre derived from the husks of coconuts. As you wander through the winding lanes of the village, you’ll be greeted by the rhythmic sound of coir being spun and woven, a mesmerising symphony that has echoed through these streets for generations.
Skilled artisans, who have honed their craft from a young age, can be seen deftly manipulating the fibres, transforming them into a diverse array of products, from intricate doormats and rugs to sturdy ropes and baskets. Beyond the workshops, the Thrikkakara Coir Village offers a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Visitors can explore traditional homes, where the art of coir-making is passed down from one generation to the next, and witness the community’s deep-rooted connection to the land and the waterways that sustain them. The village also serves as a hub for the region’s vibrant arts and crafts scene, with local artisans showcasing their skills in weaving, pottery, and other traditional forms of expression.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
5. Handicraft Market
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Nestled within the vibrant cultural landscape of Thrikkakara, the Thrikkakara Handicraft Market is a veritable treasure trove of traditional craftsmanship and local artistry. This bustling marketplace is a hub for the region’s most talented artisans, who come together to showcase their unique creations and share the stories that imbue them with such enduring charm. As you wander through the colourful stalls, your senses will be delighted by the rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas that fill the air. From intricate coir weavings and delicate brass sculptures to vibrant textiles and handcrafted pottery, the market offers a dazzling array of products that celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage. Beyond the stunning visual displays, the Thrikkakara Handicraft Market is a place of genuine human connection.
Visitors have the opportunity to interact directly with the artisans, learning about the techniques and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Many of the vendors are eager to share their stories, offering insights into the cultural significance and personal journeys that have shaped their craft. The market also serves as a gathering place for the local community, where people come to socialise, exchange ideas, and support the talented individuals who keep the region’s artistic traditions alive.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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6. Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats
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Nestled amidst the serene backwaters and lush greenery of Thrikkakara, the Ayurvedic Wellness Retreats offer a transformative experience that seamlessly blends the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with the tranquil beauty of Kerala’s natural landscape. This holistic haven is a sanctuary for those seeking to rejuvenate their body and mind, immersing themselves in the timeless practices and traditions honed over centuries. As you step into the retreat, you’ll be greeted by a sense of profound calm and harmony, a reflection of the deep-rooted connection between the land, the people, and the time-honoured healing arts.
Skilled Ayurvedic practitioners, steeped in the rich heritage of this ancient science, guide guests through a personalised wellness journey, tailored to their unique needs and dosha (mind-body type). The retreat’s programs are designed to address a wide range of health concerns, from stress and anxiety to chronic pain and imbalances. Ayurvedic therapies are Abhyanga (full body massage), Shirodhara (oil dripping on the forehead), and Panchakarma (cleaning) as guests start a journey to healthiness. Apart from the above-stated Ayurveda treatments, the retreats collaborate with other forms of activities which equally contribute to the subjectivization of people regarding ecology.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: Vary depending on the specific package
7. Paddy Fields
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The paddy fields located in Thrikkakara specifically between the backwaters have been depicted as a symbol of the backwaters area’s established symbiosis with the land and its rhythm. These vast, sprawling green paddocks may be a lifeline to the people living in Kerala but they are also a painter’s incredible nature’s paradise that brings out the splendour of the region’s agriculture. As you walk through narrow lanes of the terrain that is interspersed with rice paddies, you get a feeling of calmness in the place. Just the movement of the rice stalks, the water reflecting the clouds above, and the bird flying by make for a harmonised hymn that sings to the soul.
This is a location that has somehow managed to come to a standstill with the external world, hence giving one ample time to indulge in the tides of nature. Thrikkakara Paddy Fields apart from being a beautiful sight to the eyes, is also an epitome of the history of the culture of the area as well. These pieces of land are farmlands worked by the indigenous farmers using traditional techniques from generation and essential horticultural tools to cultivate the important grains that have sustained the communities. Visitors can witness the various stages of the rice-growing process, from the preparation of the fields to the harvest, gaining a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication that goes into this age-old practice.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
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8. Mangrove Forests
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Besides the serene, blue, and crystal water of Thrikkakara, the densely green mangrove forests tell a lot about the bio-geographic value of the area. Such root systems and interrelation that involve a diverse population of various plant and animal species allow the tourists to embrace nature at its best as it is considered in Kerala. Some of the best places that one can visit are the complicated mangroves which when seen from the outside may seem to be dreadfully ugly but when one gets to explore them, he or she will almost be forgiven for thinking that he or she is on a different planet. The air is filled with the soothing sounds of rustling leaves, the gentle lapping of the waves, and the calls of the diverse avian inhabitants that make these forests their home.
Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, visitors can explore the mangrove-lined waterways, navigating through the intricate network of channels and inlets that wind through the lush vegetation. Along the way, they’ll have the chance to spot a variety of fascinating creatures, from the elusive Brahminy kite and the vibrant kingfisher to the playful otters and the majestic monitor lizards that bask on the exposed roots. Beyond the wildlife, the mangrove forests play a vital role in the region’s delicate ecosystem, serving as natural barriers against coastal erosion, filtering water, and providing a critical habitat for a diverse array of species. Visitors can learn about the importance of these ecosystems and the efforts made to conserve and protect them, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of the natural world.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
9. Spice Gardens
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Nestled amidst the lush, verdant landscapes of Thrikkakara, the captivating Spice Gardens offer visitors a unique and immersive experience of the rich culinary and cultural heritage of Kerala. These vibrant, fragrant oases are a testament to the region’s long-standing tradition of spice cultivation, showcasing the diverse array of aromatic herbs and spices that have shaped the flavours of South Indian cuisine. As you wander through the meticulously tended gardens, you’ll be greeted by the intoxicating scents of various spices, from the warm, earthy aroma of black pepper to the zesty, citrusy notes of cardamom.
Guided by knowledgeable local experts, visitors can delve into the fascinating history and cultivation processes of these prized ingredients, gaining a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication that goes into their production. The Thrikkakara Spice Gardens are more than just a showcase of these culinary treasures; they are a living, breathing embodiment of the region’s cultural heritage. Visitors can witness the traditional methods of harvesting, drying, and processing the spices, often using time-honoured techniques passed down through generations of spice growers.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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10. Cultural Festivals
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Thrikkakara, a vibrant hub nestled within the lush backwaters of Kerala, is renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and the captivating festivals that celebrate the region’s deep-rooted traditions. Throughout the year, the local community comes together to honour their heritage, creating a dynamic and immersive experience for visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant essence of Kerala.
One of the most celebrated festivals in Thrikkakara is the annual Onam celebration. This grand, multi-day event pays homage to the mythical King Mahabali and the bountiful harvest season. During this time, the streets come alive with a kaleidoscope of colours as the local people don traditional attire, adorn their homes with intricate floral arrangements, and participate in various cultural activities.
Visitors can witness the mesmerising Pookkalam, a stunning display of vibrant flowers arranged in intricate patterns, as well as the captivating Onakkodi, a fashion show featuring the region’s exquisite handloom fabrics and traditional costumes. The highlight of the Onam festivities is the grand Vallamkali, or boat race, where teams of rowers compete in ornately decorated, long-hulled boats, showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage. Beyond Onam, Thrikkakara also celebrates a diverse array of other festivals that reflect the area’s religious and cultural diversity.
Location: Ernakulam, Kerala
Timings: Vary depending on the specific event
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Thrikkakara, a lively spot located smack dab in the middle of Kochi, Kerala, welcomes visitors with open arms to discover its broad spectrum of cultural richness and a plethora of attractions. Why not engage in Thrikkakara’s vibrant spiritual and cultural milieu? Get ready to embark on an adventure to this breathtakingly beautiful suburb. Multiple treasures await you to uncover, securing Thrikkakara’s position as a top-tier destination in Kochi. Unravel the secrets held within the renowned temples, navigate the peaceful backwaters, meet the artwarming locals, and make lasting memories. Book your trip to Kerala now and gear up for an exciting excursion to Thrikkakara!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Thrikkakara
Which is the best place to visit in Thrikkakara?
Start with the famous Thrikkakara Temple. This Hindu spot is a must-see. You can also check out the peaceful backwaters nearby. The local culture here is pretty cool, too.
How long should I stay in Thrikkakara?
Well, that's up to you! But most folks suggest a day or two. That way, you can visit the temple, ride the backwaters and chill with locals.
Can you reach Thrikkakara easily from Kochi?
Absolutely! It's a short trip from Kochi, with buses and taxis ready to get you there. You can also hire a personal cab to reach as early as possible.
When's the best time to visit Thrikkakara?
You're good any time of year. But November to February is extra nice. Then it's cool and there's lots of cultural events.
Is there anything unique to do in Thrikkakara?
Sure thing! You'll find lots to do, from visiting temples to boating races and hitting local markets for cool crafts and tasty food!
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