Mamallapuram sculptures are world-renowned, as is the Mamallapuram dance festival. This splendid fete falls in December and January every year. With crème de la crème architecture as the backdrop, the flawless dancers exhibit nature's gift to them. All kinds of dances, such as Manipuri, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Bharatanatyam, are performed here, taking you to the seventh heaven.

Mamallapuram Dance Festival:

Tamil Nadu tourism takes immense care in bringing out the festival in a grand manner every year. Along with the voices of drums, flutes, veena, and tabela, the smoothing ripples of the waves dashing against the rock add more colour to the performance. While witnessing the festival, we can experience nature’s presence in every movement of the dancers.

All the dance fraternities descend to Mamallapuram to contribute their God-given skills to God himself and their passionate audience. This festival brings out the integrity between Indians, where people from different states and speaking various languages meet together and perform as one team. After our tiresome days of looking at computer screens and nonstop clamour, this dance show will surely be a feast for your ears and eyes.

Month of Celebration: December or January.

Timings: 6 PM till 8 PM

Entry fees: There is no entry fee.

How to reach:

By Road: There are many bus facilities from Chennai, or you can hire cabs to get here.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu; you can hire an auto or taxi to reach Mamallapuram.

By Airport: Chennai International Airport is the nearest one to Mamallapuram.

FAQs about the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival

1.What is the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival?

The Mahabalipuram Dance Festival is an annual event held in December and January, featuring traditional Indian dance performances such as Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Odissi, set against the backdrop of the historic Mamallapuram sculptures.

2.When is the best time to attend the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival?

The festival takes place every year in December and January, with performances typically held from 6 PM to 8 PM. These months are the best time to visit to enjoy the cultural spectacle.

3.What makes the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival unique?

The festival is unique due to its setting against the backdrop of Mamallapuram's world-renowned sculptures. The natural soundscape of waves crashing against the rocks enhances the performances, providing a mesmerizing experience that blends nature with culture.

4.How can I reach Mahabalipuram for the dance festival?

Mahabalipuram is accessible by various means:

By Road: Regular bus services are available from Chennai, or you can hire a cab.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Chengalpattu, from where you can hire an auto or taxi.

By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, approximately 60 km from Mahabalipuram.

5.Is there an entry fee for the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival?

No, there is no entry fee to attend the Mahabalipuram Dance Festival, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy the performances.