A Day in Kalamandalam: Explore the Heart of Indian Performing Arts

Day 1: Cultural Immersion

Kalamandalam, India

8:00AM

Traditional Kerala Breakfast

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala nearby, enjoying a traditional Kerala feast consisting of puttu (steamed rice cake) and Kadala curry (chickpea curry).
Head northwest on the local road for about 15 minutes, a pleasant stroll or a quick auto-rickshaw ride will get you there.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kalamandalam Museum

Explore the Kalamandalam Museum, which houses artefacts related to Kathakali and other Indian classical dance forms, offering a deep insight into the rich heritage of Kerala's performing arts.
The museum is a 5-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
INR50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Kathakali Workshop

Participate in an engaging Kathakali workshop where you will get a chance to learn the basics of this ancient art form from skilled practitioners.
The workshop is held at the same premises as the museum.
INR500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Hotel Apsara, known for its traditional Kerala meals like Sadhya—a feast served on banana leaves with rice and various vegetable dishes.
A 5-minute walk from the workshop will lead you to the eatery.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Kalamandalam Dance Performance

Witness a captivating Kathakali performance, showcasing the elaborate costumes and vibrant storytelling that is a hallmark of the dance form.
The performance is typically hosted at the same venue as the museum and workshop.
INR300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Grounds of Kerala Kalamandalam

Take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful campus of Kerala Kalamandalam, admiring the lush greenery and serene surroundings that inspire the artists.
Explore the various facilities and gardens on foot.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Evening Snacks & Tea

Relax with a cup of traditional Kerala tea and some local snacks at a nearby tea shop, trying snacks like banana fritters or pazham pori (banana fritters).
Walk to one of the nearby tea shops—about 10 minutes away.
INR100, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Tharavadu Restaurant

End your day with a delightful dinner at Tharavadu, known for its authentic Keralite cuisine where you can sample fish curry or the local delicacy, appam with stew.
This restaurant is approximately 15 minutes away by auto-rickshaw.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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