05 Nights / 06 Days
Package Price :₹0.00/-Per Person
Booking Price :₹ 0.00/- Per Person
Chennai with Mammlapuram Dance FestivalTour is planned to let you explore some of the major temples of South India. During the tour also attend India's finest Dance Festival at Mamallapuram. Enjoy the various dance forms ranging from Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, Mohini Attam and Kathakali against the magnificent backdrop of the Pallava rock sculptures. Also explore the major tourist attractions of Mahabalipuram including Pancha Rathas, Descent of Ganges, Varaha Cave Temple, Tiger cave and the Thirukadalmallai temple.
Daywise Chennai with Mamallapuram Dance Festival Tour Package
Day 1: Chennai
Day 2: Chennai
Day 3: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram
Day 4: Mahabalipuram
Day 5: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
Day 6: Pondicherry – Chennai
Day 1: Chennai
On reaching the Chennai airport, meet our representative who’ll escort you to one of our listed hotels. Check-in at the hotel to rest in the cozy comfort of its room. In the evening take a leisurely walk to explore the nearby area of Chennai.Return to the hotel for a sumptuous dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 2: Chennai
Next morning after breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Chennai. The major tourist attractions of Chennai include Fort St. George, Kapaleeshwar temple and the National Art Gallery.
Later in the day visit Vivekananda House which houses a great collection of photographs and memorabilia from the Swami Vivekanand’s life, a gallery of religious historical paintings and the ‘meditation room’ where Vivekananda stayed. Spend the evening at leisure. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3: Chennai – Kanchipuram – Mahabalipuram
On the following day drive to Kanchipuram. It is one of the seven sacred cities of India and was once the capital of the kingdoms of the Pallavas, Cholas and Rajas of Vijayanagar.
On reaching Kanchipuram, visit the major tourist attractions of Kanchipuram including Kailasanthar temple, Ekambareshwarar temple, Vardarajanperumal temple and the Sakkiswarar temple.
Then drive to visit Mahabalipuram. On reaching Mahabalipuram attend the Dance festival where Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, Mohini Attam and Kathakali perform against the magnificent backdrop of the Pallava rock sculptures. After the dance festival return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Mahabalipuram
Post breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Mahabalipuram. The major tourist attractions to visit in Mahabalipuram include Pancha Rathas, Descent of Ganges, Varaha Cave Temple, Tiger cave and the Thirukadalmallai temple.
In the evening visit the VGP golden beach, an amusement park that is a popular venue for the shootings of South Indian movies.The evening is again reserved for the dance festival. After attending the festival return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Mahabalipuram – Pondicherry
After breakfast, drive towards Pondicherry. Upon reaching Pondicherry, check-in at one of our listed hotels. After straightening your backs for a while, embark on a sightseeing tour of Pondicherry.
The major tourist attractions of Pondicherry include Aurbindo Ashram, Pondicherry Museum, Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Nineteenth Century Light House. In the evening return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 6: Pondicherry – Chennai
In the morning after breakfast, transfer to Chennai airport to board a flight for onward destination.
1. What is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival?
The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is an annual cultural event that takes place in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, usually during December and January. The festival celebrates India’s classical dance forms, with performances held against the stunning backdrop of ancient temples and rock-cut sculptures.
The festival features some of the finest classical dancers from across India performing in front of the Shore Temple or Arjuna’s Penance, two iconic landmarks of Mamallapuram. The performances include traditional dance styles like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Odissi, and Mohiniyattam.
2. When is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival held?
The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is typically held every year between December and January, during the winter season when the weather is pleasant for outdoor events. The exact dates vary each year, so it’s important to check the specific dates in advance.
3. What are the key highlights of the Mamallapuram Dance Festival?
The Mamallapuram Dance Festival is a celebration of classical Indian dance, but there’s much more to it:
Dance Performances: Dancers showcase various classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, and Mohiniyattam.
Scenic Venues: Performances are held at iconic sites like the Shore Temple, Arjuna’s Penance, and the Five Rathas, which are rock-cut monuments dating back to the 7th century.
Cultural Immersion: The festival offers a chance to experience local art, music, and cultural heritage in an open-air setting.
Traditional Music: Along with the dance performances, traditional Indian music, especially Carnatic music (south Indian classical), is also featured.
Evening Performances: The dances are performed in the cool evening hours, adding to the magical atmosphere as the ancient stones catch the soft glow of the stage lights.
4. Where is Mamallapuram located?
Mamallapuram (or Mahabalipuram) is located about 60 km south of Chennai along the eastern coast of India. It’s a small town known for its ancient temples, rock-cut sculptures, and beachfront. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car from Chennai to reach Mamallapuram.
5. What is the best way to get to Chennai for the tour?
By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the main gateway to the city and is well-connected to both domestic and international destinations.
By Train: Chennai Egmore and Chennai Central are the main railway stations, and there are multiple trains connecting Chennai to other major cities in India.
By Road: Chennai is well-connected by road to other cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states.
6. What are the accommodation options in Chennai and Mamallapuram?
In Chennai:
Luxury Hotels: Chennai has several luxury hotels such as The Leela Palace, Taj Coromandel, and Park Hyatt.
Mid-range Hotels: Hotels like Holiday Inn Chennai, Radisson Blu, and ITC Grand Chola offer comfort and convenience.
Budget Hotels: There are many budget accommodations and guesthouses like Zostel Chennai and Santosha Residency.
In Mamallapuram:
Beach Resorts: Mamallapuram has beautiful resorts like Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay, Turtle Beach Resort, and Chariot Beach Resort, offering scenic views and easy access to the beaches and temples.
Heritage Hotels: Hotels like The MGM Beach Resort and Mahabalipuram Beach Resort offer traditional Rajasthani and Tamilian hospitality.
Budget Options: Budget-friendly guesthouses and smaller hotels are also available in Mamallapuram for those seeking affordable accommodation.
7. What is the best time to visit Chennai and Mamallapuram?
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Chennai and Mamallapuram is between November and February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.
Avoid the summer: The months of March to June can be very hot and humid, with temperatures soaring above 35°C (95°F), making it less ideal for sightseeing and outdoor events.
Monsoon season: The monsoon season (June to September) can also bring heavy rainfall, though the coastal areas like Mamallapuram may experience milder rains.
8. What can I expect during the Mamallapuram Dance Festival?
Expect an immersive cultural experience with the following:
Classical Dance Performances: Watch breathtaking performances by India’s best dancers, accompanied by live music.
Iconic Venues: Performances are held in unique outdoor venues like Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which adds to the enchantment of the evening.
Cultural Fusion: The festival is a beautiful fusion of art, culture, and history, with many performances inspired by ancient Hindu myths and traditions.
Local Food and Handicrafts: Stalls around the festival area offer a chance to try local Tamil cuisine, and you can also buy local handicrafts like stone carvings, hand-woven textiles, and artifacts.
9. What should I wear for the Mamallapuram Dance Festival?
Comfortable clothing: Since the event takes place in the evening, it’s best to wear comfortable clothes for the outdoor setting.
Layered clothing: Evenings in the coastal area can get cool, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or shawl.
Footwear: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes or sandals, as you may need to walk on uneven surfaces.
Traditional attire: While not mandatory, wearing traditional Indian attire (such as a saree or kurta) can be fun and fitting for the cultural event.
10. Is the Mamallapuram Dance Festival open to tourists?
Yes, the Mamallapuram Dance Festival is open to tourists. It is a celebration of India’s classical dance and culture, and the performances are designed to be enjoyed by both local and international visitors. The festival is an excellent way for tourists to experience the vibrancy and diversity of Indian classical arts.
11. What other attractions can I visit during the tour in Chennai and Mamallapuram?
In Chennai:
Marina Beach: One of the longest urban beaches in the world.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple: A beautiful Dravidian-style Hindu temple.
San Thome Basilica: A beautiful Catholic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas.
Government Museum: A historical museum showcasing art, archaeology, and natural history.
Fort St. George: A historic British fort and the oldest surviving British structure in India.
In Mamallapuram:
Shore Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 8th-century temple is a stunning architectural marvel.
Arjuna’s Penance: A massive rock relief depicting the story of Arjuna’s penance.
Five Rathas: Unique rock-cut temples shaped like chariots.
Cave Temples: Ancient cave temples carved into the hills.
Mamallapuram Beach: Relax by the peaceful beach after a day of sightseeing.
12. What are some tips for attending the Mamallapuram Dance Festival?
Arrive early: The venue can get crowded, so it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a good spot.
Book tickets in advance: If possible, buy tickets for the festival performances ahead of time to avoid long lines.
Respect local customs: Indian dance festivals are a significant cultural event, so be respectful of the performers and the audience.
Stay hydrated: The weather can get hot during the day, so drink plenty of water and stay cool.
Check performance schedules: Since the festival spans multiple days, check the schedule to ensure you don’t miss your favorite performances.
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