Top Places to watch Kathakali in Kerala

A kind of dance drama from the South Indian state of Kerala, Kathakali holds great significance in the Indian Classical dance form.

It is performed and communicated through footwork and gestures of hand and faces along with music and vocals. Kathakali is the local dance form of Kerala so the best Kathakali performances happen in Kerala itself.

1. Ernakulam Kathakali Club:

There are monthly shows held by the club in the TDM Hall in Ernakulam or Ernakulathappan Temple hall. You can find all the details of the timings, venues, and performances at all tourist centres in Ernakulam. It was established in 1959 and is one of the oldest cultural organizations in Kochi.

2. Kairali Kathakali:

The Kerala Kathakali Centre was established in 1990 in Kochi and since then it has been encouraging classical arts of Kerala and promoting new talents. Here Kathakali, music, martial arts and other dance forms are performed in traditional and authentic style.

3. Dr Devan’s Kathakali:

It is one of the oldest Kathakali tourist shows in Kerala and is named after its founder Dr Devan. It is performed near Ernakulam Junction Railway Station from 6.45 PM to 8 PM. The show begins with a dialogue on Indian mythology and philosophy (related to Kathakali performance).

4. Folklore Museum:

It is an architectural museum in Kerala that has preserved culture and heritage of Kerala. It has around 4000 artefacts such as and covers three architectural styles. You can enjoy watching a Kathakali performance in the air-conditioned hall with Kerala wooden architecture.

5. Greenix Village:

It is a grand venue where you can watch a Kathakali performance in Kerala and the performances combine Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Theyyam, and Kalarippayattu.

There are many other Kathakali centres in Kerala where you can enjoy the performances and also watch the elaborate makeup being done. If you are planning a trip to Kerala, make sure you definitely watch the Kathakali performances.