Uravu Indigenous Science & Technology Study Centre

Uravu Indigenous Science & Technology Study Centre, commonly known simply as Uravu, stands as a beacon of rural empowerment and sustainable craftsmanship in the heart of Wayanad, Kerala. Situated in the verdant village of Thrikkaipetta, this non-profit organization has been transforming lives and landscapes since 1996. What makes this destination truly unique is its seamless blend of a hands-on bamboo workshop, an inspiring product showroom, and a thriving social initiative, all under one roof. Visitors do not just shop here; they witness an entire ecosystem of eco-friendly innovation where bamboo is celebrated as the ultimate renewable resource.

The workshop buzzes with skilled artisans—many of them local women empowered through Uravu's livelihood programs—turning raw bamboo poles into exquisite household goods, artistic installations, and architectural elements. From the moment you step onto the campus, the earthy aroma of bamboo and the rhythmic sound of craftsmanship invite you into a world where tradition meets modern design. The facility serves as both a production center and a knowledge hub, offering a rare glimpse into the entire lifecycle of bamboo, from nursery cultivation to finished product. It is a must-visit for eco-conscious travelers, design enthusiasts, and anyone seeking authentic, handcrafted souvenirs that carry a powerful story of social impact.

Services & Facilities

The Uravu Bamboo Workshop in Thrikkaipetta offers a comprehensive range of services that make it more than just a retail stop. The facility is designed to educate, engage, and inspire visitors through direct interaction with the bamboo craft. The on-site showroom displays an extensive catalog of finished goods, while the adjacent workshop allows you to watch artisans at work. The organization operates the largest bamboo nursery in South India on the premises, supplying high-quality planting material and demonstrating sustainable propagation techniques.

• Guided Workshop Tours: Walk through the production floor to see bamboo being processed, shaped, and assembled into final products.
• Bamboo Nursery Visits: Explore the vast nursery that hosts diverse bamboo species and learn about ecological restoration programs.
• Skill Development Training: Participate in structured workshops that teach bamboo craftsmanship, sustainable construction, and product design.
• Custom Bamboo Interiors: Consult with the design team for bespoke bamboo installations, including blinds, wall paneling, and furniture for homes and businesses.
• Responsible Tourism Experiences: Engage in curated tours that highlight the intersection of indigenous knowledge and sustainable livelihoods.

What We Offer

The product range at Uravu is a testament to the astonishing versatility of bamboo. Each item is handcrafted with precision, blending functionality with artistic expression. The showroom is a treasure trove of lifestyle products that appeal to modern sensibilities while staying rooted in traditional techniques. Whether you are looking for a unique gift or a statement piece for your home, the collection surprises with its innovation and quality.

Household & Kitchenware

Discover an array of meticulously crafted kitchen utensils, coasters, trays, and spice boxes. The renowned 'Book of Spices' is a particularly impressive creation, functioning as a beautifully bound bamboo box that opens to reveal compartments for authentic Kerala spices. These items bring a natural warmth to any kitchen setting.

Home Décor & Lighting

Illuminate your space with stunning bamboo lamp shades, including the popular pineapple design. The collection extends to intricately woven bamboo blinds that filter light beautifully, elegant room dividers, and decorative wall art that showcases the natural grain and texture of the material.

Fashion & Lifestyle Accessories

Carry a piece of sustainable art with you. The product line includes stylish bamboo handbags, durable fashion accessories, and even finely crafted items like the 'Script-o-premium pen,' a bamboo writing instrument that makes for a perfect corporate gift or personal keepsake. The 'Rainmaker' musical instrument is another crowd favorite.

Why Customers Choose Us

Customers travel to Thrikkaipetta to visit Uravu for reasons that go far beyond a typical shopping trip. The organization's commitment to quality, sustainability, and social empowerment sets it apart as a purpose-driven enterprise. Every purchase made here directly contributes to the livelihood of rural women and indigenous communities, turning a simple transaction into an act of support for ethical development.

The transparency of the operation is a significant draw. Visitors can see the raw bamboo being processed and meet the artisans whose lives have been transformed by the livelihood support program. This connection fosters a deep appreciation for the products. Furthermore, the prices are remarkably reasonable, especially considering the handcrafted nature and durability of the goods. Knowledgeable staff share the story behind each design, igniting a passion for bamboo as a true 'green gold' alternative to wood, plastic, and iron.

Serving Bamboo Flat & Andaman and Nicobar Islands

While the Uravu Bamboo Workshop is physically located in the lush highlands of Thrikkaipetta, Wayanad, its reputation draws visitors and customers from across India, including those searching from Bamboo Flat and the broader Andaman and Nicobar Islands region. The workshop's unique name often connects it in searches with regions that share a bamboo-centric identity. For customers from the islands or any distant location, the Uravu brand ensures that the essence of Kerala's master craftsmanship is accessible.

The organization actively bridges the geographical gap through its dedicated e-commerce platform, allowing enthusiasts in Port Blair or anywhere else to browse and order authentic bamboo products online. The comprehensive online store ensures that the intricate bamboo blinds, aromatic spice books, and elegant lamp shades can be shipped safely, bringing a piece of Kerala's sustainable innovation to your doorstep, no matter how remote your location.

Hours, Location & Directions

Planning your visit to the Uravu Bamboo Workshop in Thrikkaipetta is straightforward. The facility serves as both a production unit and a visitor center, welcoming guests throughout the week. The workshop is located in Thrikkaipatta part, easily accessible by road from major towns in Wayanad district. For those relying on maps, the precise coordinates lead you to a sprawling campus that blends seamlessly with the surrounding greenery.

The standard operating hours are from 09:00 to 17:30, with extended hours on certain days until 18:00, providing ample time to explore the nursery, observe the production process, and leisurely browse the extensive showroom. It is advisable to confirm current timings before your visit, especially on public holidays. The campus provides clear signage, and the staff is always ready to offer a detailed tour that brings the entire bamboo ecosystem to life, ensuring you leave with both a memorable experience and a special handcrafted product.

Questions Visitors Ask

What types of bamboo products can I buy at the workshop?

The workshop offers a wide variety of handcrafted items, including kitchenware, tableware, woven bamboo blinds, innovative lamp shades, fashion handbags, stationery like the Script-o-premium pen, musical instruments like the Rainmaker, and unique items such as the spice book containing authentic Kerala spices.

Can we see how the bamboo products are made?

Yes, a major highlight of a visit is the ability to directly observe the production floor. You can watch skilled rural women and artisans process raw bamboo and craft it into finished household goods, offering a transparent view of the entire artisanal process.

Is Uravu only a store, or does it have a larger social mission?

Uravu is fundamentally a non-profit developmental organization. It functions as a social initiative focused on rural empowerment, particularly for indigenous women, using bamboo as a sustainable tool for livelihood support, ecological restoration, and knowledge dissemination.

Do you offer training or workshops for learning bamboo craft?

Absolutely. As a recognized knowledge center for bamboo, Uravu runs structured skill development training programs and workshops for individuals, students, and groups interested in learning bamboo craftsmanship, interior design, and sustainable construction techniques.