Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
( late Dec-late Jan)
A four-week dance festival showcasing classical and folk dances from
all over India, with many performances on an open-air stage against the imposing back-
drop of Arjuna's Penance. Dances include the Bharata Natyam (Tamil Nadu), Kuchipudi
(Andhra Pradesh) tribal dance, Kathakali (Kerala drama); there are also puppet shows and
classical music performances. Performances are held only from Friday to Sunday.
Sleeping
Hotel Daphne
( 27442811;
www.moonrakersrestaurants.com
;
17 Othavadai Cross St; r ?300-1500; )
Most of the
Daphne's rooms are quite acceptable if nothing special, but the new, top-floor AC rooms
12 and 13 are great value, with four-poster beds, balconies and cane swing chairs. The
leafy courtyard is another drawcard.
HOTEL
$
Tina Blue View Lodge & Restaurant
( 27442319; 34 Othavadai St; s/d/tr ?400/500/600)
Tina is one of Mamallapuram's originals and
kind of looks it, with some frayed and faded edges, but remains deservedly popular for its
whitewashed walls, blue accents and tropically pleasant garden, as well as tireless original
owner Xavier ('I am same age as Tony Wheeler!').
GUESTHOUSE
$
Sri Harul Guest House
MAP
GUESTHOUSE
$
GOOGLE MAP
(Sea View Guest House; 9384620173; 181 Bajanai Koil St, Fishermen's Colony; r ?500-1000)
Surf crashes on
to the rocks right below your balcony if you get one of the half-dozen sea-view rooms at
Sri Harul, one of the best of several seafront cheapies. Rooms are basic, medium-sized
and quite clean.
La Vie en Rose
( 9444877544; Old College Rd; d without/with AC ?700/1200; )
Simple, decent-sized, clean rooms
(though a bit worn), a nice leafy entrance and friendly staff.
HOTEL
$
Lakshmi Cottage
HOTEL
$
