Kerala Kalamandalam
Kalamandalam Heritage: Kerala Kalamandalam is a world-renowned Deemed University for Art and Culture. Founded in 1930 by the great poet Vallathol Narayana Menon, its goal was to revive traditional Kerala arts. It is located on the scenic banks of the Bharathapuzha river in Cheruthuruthy. The institu tion follows the traditional Gurukul system of education. Students live and learn under the guidance of masters for years. It is the primary center for training in Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Kudiyattam. The campus is a living museum where one can see art in its purest form. Visitors can take the "A Day with the Masters" tour to witness the training sessions. The rhythmic sounds of the Chenda and Maddalam echo throughout the campus. The institution has produced many legendary artists who have performed globally. The Natyagriha or theater is a masterpiece of traditional architecture. It is built using teak, rosewood, and granite. The costumes and ornaments used in performances are also crafted within the campus. The university offers graduate and postgraduate courses in various art forms. It has a research center dedicated to the study of performing arts. The environment is serene and deeply rooted in South Indian culture. The tomb of the founder, Vallathol Samadhi, is located in the old campus. The institution is a bridge between the ancient past and the modern world. It has played a pivotal role in putting Kerala's classical arts on the global map. Tourists from all over the world visit to experience this cultural epicenter.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Visit Time: 3 to 4 hours for the guided tour.Place Type:
Category: Culture, Education, Art.Entry Fees:
Tour Fee: The "A Day with the Masters" tour costs 1000 INR for Indian tourists. For foreign nationals, the fee is 20 USD (approx 1600 INR).
Inclusions: This fee includes a guided tour and access to witness the training sessions. Students a...Tour Fee: The "A Day with the Masters" tour costs 1000 INR for Indian tourists. For foreign nationals, the fee is 20 USD (approx 1600 INR).
Inclusions: This fee includes a guided tour and access to witness the training sessions. Students and large groups can avail of special discounts with prior permission. The funds go towards the maintenance of the university and student welfare. It is a worthwhile investment for a unique cultural experience.Timing:
Tour Timings: The guided tour is available on all working days from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. The campus is usually closed for tourists in the afternoons.
Ideal Visit Time: Arriving exactly at 9:30 AM is best to see the full range of morning clas...Tour Timings: The guided tour is available on all working days from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM. The campus is usually closed for tourists in the afternoons.
Ideal Visit Time: Arriving exactly at 9:30 AM is best to see the full range of morning classes. The institution is closed on national holidays and during the summer break in April/May. It is also closed during the Onam holidays in September. Always check ahead before planning a visit.Special Events:
Nila Tourism Festival: The institution participates in the Nila river festivals. These events celebrate the cultural heritage of the river valley. Special performances by Kalamandalam troupes are the main attraction. It is a grand display of Kerala's artistic diversity. <...Nila Tourism Festival: The institution participates in the Nila river festivals. These events celebrate the cultural heritage of the river valley. Special performances by Kalamandalam troupes are the main attraction. It is a grand display of Kerala's artistic diversity.
Vallathol Birth Anniversary: Every year, the birthday of the founder is celebrated with great pomp. It includes seminars, honors for artists, and special performances. It is a time when the entire artistic community gathers. The events are spread over several days in October.Best Photo Spots:
Natyagriha Interior: If permitted, the inside of the theater with its granite pillars is a masterpiece. The dancing poses on the pillars are a highlight for photographers. The way the light enters the wooden structure is very artistic.
The Bha...Natyagriha Interior: If permitted, the inside of the theater with its granite pillars is a masterpiece. The dancing poses on the pillars are a highlight for photographers. The way the light enters the wooden structure is very artistic.
The Bharathapuzha Riverbank: The view of the river from the campus is serene. Capture the sunset over the water with the lush greenery on the banks. It is a perfect spot for nature and landscape shots.
Vallathol Samadhi: The peaceful mausoleum surrounded by flowers is a beautiful and respectful spot for a photo. It captures the history and the soul of Kalamandalam. The architecture is simple yet elegant.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Witness a Training Session: The highlight of the visit is seeing the students practice. You can watch Kathakali students learning the complex eye movements and mudras. The Mohiniyattam classes show the graceful movements of the dance. It is a rare behind-the-scenes look at how classical arts are mastered. Always maintain silence and respect.
A Day with the Masters Tour: Take the official guided tour organized by the university. The guides are knowledgeable and explain the history and significance of each art form. They take you through the different Kalaris (classrooms). It is an educational journey that lasts about 4 hours. You get to see the entire campus.
Visit the Natyagriha: Explore the traditional theater which is an architectural gem. Look at the granite pillars with the 108 Karan...
Information
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Why Famous:
Revival of Arts: Kerala Kalamandalam is famous for saving Kerala's classical arts from extinction. It is the premier institution for learning Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The university is famous for its Gurukul system, where tradition is passed down orally. It is a world-...Revival of Arts: Kerala Kalamandalam is famous for saving Kerala's classical arts from extinction. It is the premier institution for learning Kathakali and Mohiniyattam. The university is famous for its Gurukul system, where tradition is passed down orally. It is a world-renowned destination for cultural tourism. The Natyagriha is a famous example of traditional Indian theater design. It is the place where the legendary poet Vallathol worked to preserve Kerala's identity.
Global Acclaim: The institution is famous for its performing troupes that tour the world. It is a Deemed University that offers academic degrees in fine arts. The campus is a quiet sanctuary for artists and art lovers alike. It is the cultural soul of Kerala, representing centuries of artistic evolution. -
Architecture:
Artistic Campus Design: Kerala Kalamandalam features an architecture that reflects the artistic soul of Kerala. The most iconic building is the Natyagriha, the traditional dance theater. It is built according to the Natya Shastra principles with specific dimensions for aco...Artistic Campus Design: Kerala Kalamandalam features an architecture that reflects the artistic soul of Kerala. The most iconic building is the Natyagriha, the traditional dance theater. It is built according to the Natya Shastra principles with specific dimensions for acoustics. The theater measures approximately 60 feet by 40 feet. It has no nails, and the entire structure is held together by wooden joints. The pillars are made of dark granite and feature 108 dancing poses of Lord Shiva. The Koothambalam has a high sloping roof covered with tiles. The classrooms or Kalaris are simple, open-sided structures with mud or wooden floors. These are designed to allow free flow of air and light. The library and museum are modern buildings that house ancient artifacts and books. The Vallathol Samadhi is a peaceful mausoleum on the riverbank. The campus layout is spread across 32 acres of greenery. The use of local materials like rosewood and teak is prominent throughout. The architecture fosters a sense of discipline and creative focus. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 80 KMS away. From the airport, a taxi or a combination of train and taxi is best.
By Train: Shoranur Junction is the closest railway station, only 3 KMS away. Most major tr... -
Near Tourist Places:
Nearby Spots: 1. Bharathapuzha River (0. 5 km) 2. Shoranur (3 km) 3. Thrissur (32 km) 4. Varikkassery Mana (25 km) 5. Punathur Kotta (30 km) 6. Guruvayur Temple (35 km) 7. Vadakkumnathan Temple (33 km) 8. Sakthan Palace (34 km) 9. Vilangan Kunnu (28 km) 10. Peechi Dam (45 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Wear slip-on sandals as you will need to remove your footwear frequently. Carry water as the tour involves a lot of walking. Maintain absolute silence near the classrooms. Do not touch any instruments or costumes.
Packing E...
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