Mamallapuram Dance Festival

Rockyp44

I believe it starts this weekend (TN Tourist website). Has anyone been that can give me some tips on logistics? Is the venue near the bus stop back to Chennai? What time is the last bus back to Chennai? (Thiruvanmiyur is close enough)

Any info appreciated.

Nick-H

As you know from our discussions, I've never been to any of the these events, but I understand that they put up a platform in front of the big Arjun's Pennance as the venue, so that is fairly central.

I don't think I would want to travel back to Chennai late at night on a bus, though...

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Jean-Philipe

Yes, the venue is very close to the bus stand, and the buses will still be running when the program is over. But why not spend the night in Mamallapuram and make a more relaxed journey?

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Gametotravel

Buses run throughout the night; every 20 mins; according to me is the safest form of travel.

wabat

How long does the Festival last ?

I will be there Monday 29 dec.

thank you

Bhaswaran

I visited there by Auto last November 2008. It took Rs. 600 from Chennai to Chennai. But later heard that there was a recently started AC bus service (fare Rs. 200) from Chennai directly to Mahabalipuram. is this true?

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Nick-H

I guess that anyone who feels able to do an hour or two journey on a motorbike would not have a problem doing the trip by auto. If you like the wind in your hair...

Taking a car is not going to be much more than twice that, and you can always open the windows!

Rockyp44

I believe it goes on through most of Jan. I read that hotel space is sold out during the festival & I can only go on weekends anyway, due to work.

The last performance starts at 7:30 or 8 pm.

Rachmilievitch

We had no problem last year on two separate visits finding rooms in Mamallapuram during the festival.

Jean-Philipe

I haven't seen A/C buses on that route, but there are new luxury buses between Chennai and Mamallapuram. I think the route numbers are in the 600's. There are three or four routes. You can catch them at Guindy or Tiruvanmayur or Tambaram, all of which are on the suburban train line.

Best deal of all: buy a day bus pass from the conductor for Rs 30 (maybe Rs 35) and ride the whole system, including to Mamallapuram and return.

Rockyp44

There was a #599 AC bus waiting at the venue, which goes to T Nagar. It cost 43 Rs. to Thiruvanmiyur.

humanji

Hi I think the city AC bus services are fantastic! Cool, comfortable and a treat to travel in! There are three services from Chennai city to Mamallapuram; From CMBT koyambedu bus stand, T.Nagar and from Adayar route nos. 588C, 599 and 588D. I travelled from T.nagar to Mamallapuram and it costs Rs.68/- only for one adult.Frequency of 1 hour each and more during holidays.. hope more such services come up!! I hope u find this useful!!!