Experience the power of Kalarippayattu at Kadathanadan Kalari Cultural Centre, Thekkady! See amazing martial arts displays and learn about this ancient Kerala tradition. It's a thrilling cultural adventure!
Explore Traditional Weaponry Exhibits
Learn About Kalaripayattu History
Watch Kalaripayattu Performance
October-March
Evening
₹1,000 per person
While the specific history of the Kadathanadan Kalari Cultural Centre isn't readily available, Kalaripayattu itself boasts a rich history dating back over 2000 years. It's believed to be one of the oldest martial arts in the world, with roots in ancient Dravidian traditions. Historically, Kalaripayattu warriors played a crucial role in defending kingdoms and maintaining order. The art form combines combat techniques with physical conditioning, meditation, and Ayurvedic principles, emphasizing both physical and mental discipline. Over time, Kalaripayattu evolved into various regional styles, and today, centers like Kadathanadan Kalari Centre work to preserve and promote this ancient tradition.
We visited this place in the evening. It's a full one hour live show of old times warriors and their war heads techniques. A superb presentation of warriors using their different types of arms and fight with each other without hurting the opposite one. A great show don't miss it.
We had a tour around Kerala and an option was to go to Yodha Cultural Village. For 300 rupees per person, per show we watched the Kathikali Dance show and the Kalaripayattu Martial Arts show. The Kathikali dance was ok and to be honest, could probably get skipped. Also the Kathikali started 15 minutes late. But the Kalaripayattu Martial Arts show was amazing. They had nice demonstrations as well as really cool acrobatics and pyrotechnics. Amazing show and would recommend the Kalaripayattu Martial Arts show. 5 stars for martial arts show, 3 stars for dance show.
A great place to witness the martial arts and the kathakali performance , the shows are displayed in the interiors with good seating capacity. Very good performance, by the dance team and martial art team Real show of rich dance heritage and valour of Kerala It is a great work from the yodha team to maintain and preserve the art forms.... Really recommend to see the both show and be part of the Kerala heritage. Please Note - Climax of Martial Art is awesome.
The martial arts performance at Yodha Kalari Theatre was absolutely phenomenal! The performers showcased incredible skills, blending strength, precision, and artistry. What stood out the most was how they explained each move and demonstrated various self-defense techniques in an easy-to-understand manner. The dangerous and daring stunts left me in awe, and their mastery of the craft is truly inspiring. This is a must-see experience for anyone visiting Kerala — the dedication and energy of the performers will leave you speechless. Highly recommended!