Great K V Kathakali Center
Great K V Kathakali Center
Great K V Kathakali Center
4.5
About
The Kerala Kathakali Centre, based in Fort Kochi, is one of the last sanctuaries for ancient art and culture in India. Daily Schedule: 6:30-8am Rooftop Yoga(500). 8-9am Meditation (500), We have 2 Shows till March 31 .1st show 2 to 4pm & 2nd show 5-6pm Make-up, 6-7pm Kathakali Performance (600)7.15-8pm Kalaripayattu Martial Arts(400), 8-9pm Indian Classical Music(500), 9-9:45pm Indian Classical Dance (500)(8-9pm on Sat). [monthly]9-10pm Full Moon Raga (500) Tickets are always available,no booking required. The centre also offers private performances on request, as well as private lessons in the traditional arts (including singing, drumming, dancing, yoga etc). Since 1994, performances have run daily, 365 days a year, with different artists performing each night. The centre is an integral part of the local artist community, and plays an important role in preserving and cultivating these ancient arts for future generations. NB: Our name has recently changed to Great KV Kathakali Centre
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Dana M4 contributionsExcellent showIf you want to experience and support the culture of Cochin, do not miss it. It was one of the highlights of our visit to the area and so glad we booked last minute before we left. Make sure you make a donantion. Thank you !Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 1 March 2024
- Film GNew England1,045 contributionsOutstanding Cultural VenueWe attended a performance (lasts an hour) and it was great. Much different from the theatre I know. Outstanding make-up and costumes. Arrive early and you can see the cast sitting on stage putting on their make-up.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 13 March 2024
- 5678PamSDallas, Texas109 contributionsExcellent opportunity to see classical dance and art forms of Kerala.I attended the Saturday night Special Dance Forms performance and the Martial Art performance. Both were very good. The center offers classes and performances in many arts of Kerala. Next time I plan to take advantage of the other classes and performances the center offers.Visited March 2024Travelled soloWritten 26 March 2024
- Jason BNew York City, New York170 contributionsIt’s a must see but set your expectations appropriatelyBought our inexpensive tickets in the morning for an evening show. The show was interesting and certainly very different from what I normally see. Gave us a glimpse into local culture via this mime play/dance. I would recommend it as you have to see it if you are in Kochin but you will tire of the performance.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 31 March 2024
- preethiraghu08Chicago, Illinois23 contributionsExcellent cultural dance performanceIt was a beautiful introduction to kathakali. First you see the patience of makeup. Then we explain the facial expression and hand movements. There is live music with dance. It is a long performance(30 min of demonstrations and 45 min of dance) but a beautiful art form. If coming to Kochi, a must see. Can reserve in advance and pay cash if have international credit cardVisited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 11 June 2024
- Hugues S1 contributionSomething specialFrom the makeup, to the theatre performance and martial arts, this was a truly enriching cultural experience. This provoked thought, and was inspiring to see how much can be expressed without words. We returned the next day for a another dance performance which was also beautifully prepared and executed.Visited June 2024Travelled with familyWritten 14 June 2024
- PaesFernsColombo, Sri Lanka55 contributionsFantastic, mesmerizing introduction to KathakaliSo glad I booked this show and the makeup session. It was enthralling and informative. One hour of dance was just the perfect duration. My 10 year old and me left mesmerized by the performance. I have a much better understanding of this dance form now. The only thing jarring was a couple of power outages that disturbed the flow, but otherwise it was fantastic. The theater was badly hit by COVID so they desperately need more funds and I hope they get plenty of patrons so they can keep up the good work.Visited July 2024Travelled with familyWritten 6 July 2024
- Alessandra PLa Spezia, Italy4,879 contributionsSpectacularI attended this show being able to see all the initial part of the trick and I must say it was really interesting, I was not bored at all as read in certain reviews. It is a key part of this show and the initial explanations of the various movements and facial mimicry also helped to better understand the show. Actors and musicians are really good the price of 500 rupees is worth them all. I also attended the martial arts show Kalaripayattu, again the athletes were very good. the cost for this performance is 400 rupees. Definitely RecommendationVisited February 2024Travelled soloWritten 26 July 2024
- Indrani kBengaluru, India14 contributionsMost Amazing experienceWe witnessed from 5pm to 6pm on 14.08.24 the make up of artists done with perfect expertise using natural colours. The singer then narrated the story in English and also explained the nuances of the dance expression, Mudras that were demonstrated by the artists.This made the whole experience very meaningful to us and we enjoyed the one hour performance thoroughly.This amazing Kathakali performance was based on story from Mahabharata with three dancers Hanuman, Bhima and Draupadi.Each character had a unique dress and make up.The two hours just flew by. I thank and appreciate the whole team singer, musicians and dancers. Thank you Kathakali centre for keeping this tradition alive.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 16 August 2024
- keerti kBrussels, Belgium4 contributionsA must doThe daily performance at Kerala Kathakali center at Kochi is a must do if you are in the vicinity . The two-hour-long show involves makeup and the performance. It costs Rs600 and I did feel it was worth much much more . As soon as we entered this quaint little hall , we saw the make up was already underway and we had the opportunity to see and take as many pictures as we wanted of the process . I knew that make up was central to this art but kathakali make up is an art by itself . Make up was followed up by a small introduction to Kathakali . It was amazing to know that the colour used was ground from a stone and coconut oil. The small crash course of the various face expressions, mudras were an absolutely add on to the show itself. Then finally it was time for the performance. The handouts provided covered the gist of story which was to be enacted ; Kalyanasoudandhim from Mahabharata. The play unfolds between three characters ; Bhima , Drupadi and Hanuman . Each character’s performance was brilliant though my personal favourite was Hanuman . Unlike many other art forms , here the musicians perform live and provide the musical backdrop for Kathakali . You will be surprised that there was only one singer and 2 instrument players yet there are few other art forms that can hold your attention as completely and make you forget about everything else. At the end of the show the audience has an opportunity to take photos with artists on stage and I found this to be a nice touch . Over all , it was one of the highlights of our Kerala trip . It is indeed once in a life time experience. So if you ever were to visit Kochi , don’t miss out on this . P.s - we were right at the front row which are the best seats . So book online . P.s.s - for children ear plugs are a good idea.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten 23 August 2024
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buzzybeebronygarth
Oswestry,14 contributions
Dec 2022
We attended performances of kathakali,, classical music and classical dance whilst we were staying in Kochi last month. Our favourite was the classical dance but all the events were very professionally presented and of a very high standard. You can reserve tickets in advance and pay on arrival - this is particularly recommended for the kathakali performances which are extremely popular. If you are interested in Indian culture, theKathakali Centre is an essential visit.
Written 31 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Atul
Hyderabad, India5 contributions
Sept 2022
We went with young kids for the Katakali show and it was a great experience. Its a must visit if you have any kind of affinity to any kind of fine arts. Kids may get bored after 30-40 mins and hence take the seats near exit so that you can quietly leave if needed.
We booked the tickets at the venue an hour before the show and it costs 500 per head.
We booked the tickets at the venue an hour before the show and it costs 500 per head.
Written 5 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Abishek V
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Couples
The place is quite small and not very visible to spot, however following the google maps location to the T will help you sufficiently.
It is a small center run by a small team of very experienced artists - be it for Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, classical singing and dancing.
Do not miss experiencing a Kathakali and a Kalaripayattu show - these are usually 45mins-1 hour long and definitely worth your time and money. Each show is priced at 500 rupees and the experience is truly wonderful. You can even converse with the artists post the show and even click some pictures with them.
Do not miss this place if you are visiting fort Kochi.
It is a small center run by a small team of very experienced artists - be it for Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, classical singing and dancing.
Do not miss experiencing a Kathakali and a Kalaripayattu show - these are usually 45mins-1 hour long and definitely worth your time and money. Each show is priced at 500 rupees and the experience is truly wonderful. You can even converse with the artists post the show and even click some pictures with them.
Do not miss this place if you are visiting fort Kochi.
Written 18 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
John-Tuffin
Exeter, UK61 contributions
Mar 2023
I am very interested in Indian classical music. The Centre stages a concert between 8 and 9 pm every evening, and I attended six of these during my recent stay in Kochi. Each night there were between two and four musicians, with varying compositions of instruments and sometimes a singer. It was a memorable experience, of very high quality. The cost of a seat is Rs500; good value for money for playing of this quality.
Written 12 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jonas d
11 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Most reviews here seem to be about kathakali. But I want to add a note that the classical indian music performances are also incredible! Top tear artists from around south India performing beautiful raga improvisations, every night except Saturdays 8-9pm. Each day is different (me my partner and my friends have already been to 3 amazing performances, and we’re not done), and definitely recommend checking this out too!
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rintaro
Japan34 contributions
Jan 2024 • Solo
I saw Kathakali and Indian classical dance Odissi. Kathakali was quite enjoyable as it was a play with gorgeous costumes, but the dance that started late at night was really wonderful and moving. I didn't know much about the types of Indian classical dance, but when I first saw Odissi, a classical dance originating from East India, performed by male dancers, I was shocked by the beauty of the dance. I think I first saw Mangalacharan, and the dance was supple yet powerful, graceful, delicate, and very spiritual. It was so beautiful that I went to see it again before returning home. This time, they performed a different piece, but it was also really beautiful. I recommend that you not only see Kathakali, but also classical dance.

Written 16 January 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Puneet K
3 contributions
Dec 2022
The Kathakali show at the Kerala Kathakali Centre is excellent. My wife was witnessing a Kathakali demo/performance for the first time in her life and she was totally mesmerised by what she saw. I would highly recommend this place for people who would like to know about and experience the amazing dramatic art form.
Written 30 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Margaret S
29 contributions
Jan 2025 • Couples
We were unsure if we would enjoy this wanted to see it because it is unique to Kerala. We had booked one performance of the Kathakali traditional Keralan dance. The demonstration and explanation before the performance was really helpful in understanding it and really entertaining. The performance itself was fascinating and we were in awe at the skills of the performers in conveying the story with no speech.
We enjoyed it so much we stayed on for the second martial arts performance which was really exciting.
We enjoyed it so much we stayed on for the second martial arts performance which was really exciting.
Written 26 January 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MrsRoberts18
Norwich, UK11 contributions
Mar 2023
Very glad that we made the time to go see a performance of Kathakali whilst in Kochi. The actors give an explanation and demonstration of the art of Kathakali prior to the performance, so you get to understand what the make up represents, the different mudras and what the story is about. The performance itself is brilliant and it would be great to see a longer one in future.
We arrive an hour early to watch the make up being applied as advised by our hotel, however we could have arrived 15 minutes before the show and seen enough make up application to get the idea. An hour was a bit too much watching audience members all vying to get the perfect shot for their social media accounts!
A top tip is to go to the centre earlier in the day to buy your ticket to get a seat towards the front, as they assign tickets from the front row backwards, so the later you arrive the more chance you'll be at the back and can't easily see the show. We were surprised that the show was a sell out considering it runs every night 365 days a year. I bought tickets at 3pm and we were on row 3 with a great view.
We arrive an hour early to watch the make up being applied as advised by our hotel, however we could have arrived 15 minutes before the show and seen enough make up application to get the idea. An hour was a bit too much watching audience members all vying to get the perfect shot for their social media accounts!
A top tip is to go to the centre earlier in the day to buy your ticket to get a seat towards the front, as they assign tickets from the front row backwards, so the later you arrive the more chance you'll be at the back and can't easily see the show. We were surprised that the show was a sell out considering it runs every night 365 days a year. I bought tickets at 3pm and we were on row 3 with a great view.
Written 8 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Srinivas Medishetty
Hyderabad, India158 contributions
Feb 2023 • Family
I read reviews of this place and went for the 6pm show. The show depicts the beautiful culture and heritage of Kerala in dance form. The artists performance was par excellence, with their great eye movements and perfect synchrony . The lady artist that played Narakasura’s sister was simply mind blowing . The tickets are priced at 500/ per person and the seating was comfortable with air conditioning inside. The show runs for an hour and it is worth every penny. This is a must in your Fort kochi visit and especially if you’re an art lover who wishes to know about the traditional dance forms.
Written 19 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello i have got some specific queries regarding this attraction.
1. Does it needed to be pre-booked? or do we need to buy tickets before the show? When should we reach there to buy the tickets to watch the complete make up & dance?
2. Is it happening in all days of a week?
Written 27 January 2019
Namasthe sir..
You can get the tickets when you come for the show.. you can also make an online reservation or even call over phone to make a reservation. If you reserve you can get good seats as sometimes the kathakali show would be crowded..
Pre booking is advised..
If you are buying tickets at the spot, reach 10 minutes before showtime..
Make up starts at 5 and show starts at 6.. you can come anytime..
The performances are happening everyday..
Martial arts 4PM to 5 PM..
Kathakali, 5 pm to 6 pm makeup and 6 pm to 7pm performance..
We hope you would visit us..
Regards .
Kerala kathakali centre
Written 28 January 2019
do they allow to photograph the make up process of kathakali dancers? i am a hobby photographer and love to shoot the process of makeup. Let me know whoever photographed this event.
Written 20 May 2018
Hello sir
Namaste
There are no restrictions for taking photos..
You can click.pictures or make video during the makeup and dance session .. also you can have a snap of urself with the artists after the performance at the greenroom..
The theatre has a balcony ..so you can click from there too..
Written 25 May 2018
do they allow to photograph the make up process of kathakali dancers in kerala kathakali centre? i am a hobby photographer and i want to click. kindly let me know.
thank you
Written 20 May 2018
I’m so sorry as just picked this up and it’s probably too late but yes you can photograph but no flash during performance
Written 16 July 2018
What is the ticket price for kathakali dance and martial art? and what is the duration?
Written 9 March 2018
Dance ticket is 350 IR per person. Duration is two hours approx. Ticket price for martial art is 300 IR per person. Duration is one hour approx.
Written 10 March 2018
this centre works everyday ... there is no closing on any days... we are open 365 days a year ... and yes there will be performances everyday ...
Written 24 October 2017
no shows in day time ...
Schedules:
6:30 A M - Yoga
6 A. M - Meditation with live music
4 PM - Kalaripayattu [Martial arts]
5 PM - Kathakali
8 pm - various Musical shows
9 PM - classical dance
Written 6 February 2017
Would you advice to go for the dance performance with a one year old? Or in other words is the audience expected to remain silent and sit at one place?
Written 27 September 2016
I did not feel there were any expectations of the audience other than for us to enjoy the performance. However, if your child scares easily you may want to avoid this performance.
Written 12 December 2016
Gautam
Toronto, Canada
Hi, This is Gautam Sinha
How did you do the booking for the Kathakali Show ?
Written 8 August 2016
Hi Gautam
I got it at the Centre itself, about 30 mins before the show. You could also get it most other places especially at Fort Cochin area, and remember to reserve seats if getting it earlier in the day. It does not cost extra.
Written 18 August 2016
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