The short answer
Uttarardha Mahotsav (Modhera Dance Festival): what visitors should know first
Go if you love classical dance and can handle crowds; the setting is unusual. Check the official dates each year, as the festival has run for two to three evenings, and book transport and a room early.
History and context
The story behind Uttarardha Mahotsav (Modhera Dance Festival)
Wikipedia says the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat has held an annual dance festival at the temple since 1992, in the third week of January.
The 2026 edition, reported by IANS, ran for two evenings on 17 and 18 January.
Useful facts
Uttarardha Mahotsav (Modhera Dance Festival) facts at a glance
- Location
- Sun Temple, Modhera
- Experience type
- Classical dance festival
- Known for
- Dance staged against the carved Sabha Mandap
- Architect/Built
- Held annually since 1992 (Wikipedia)
- Time or schedule
- Mid-January; 2026: 17-18 January, 6:30 pm
Why it matters
Why Uttarardha Mahotsav (Modhera Dance Festival) is worth your time
The festival turns the temple's assembly hall back into what it was designed for: a space for gatherings, music and dance. Wikipedia notes that the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat has held an annual three-day festival here since 1992, in the third week of January after Uttarayan.
Formats and organisers have varied; the 2026 edition was a two-day programme announced by the state's cultural department. Whichever year you attend, the draw is the setting: classical dance performed against an 11th-century carved hall.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The setting
Dancers perform in front of the temple's carved hall.
- 02
Classical variety
The 2026 programme listed several classical forms.
- 03
A January evening
The festival follows Uttarayan and has a seasonal, festive feel.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
The festival is held in the open at the temple in January, with performances in the evening against the Sabha Mandap. The 2026 edition was held on 17 and 18 January, with shows starting at 6:30 pm and a different lineup each evening.
The lineup typically draws classical dancers from across India. The 2026 programme included Odissi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Kathakali and Sattriya. Dates, format and performers change from year to year, so check the current announcement.
Because the festival is a major event, plan early. Hotels in Mehsana fill quickly, and the drive back to Ahmedabad is long at night. Arrive well before the programme begins to get a place, and carry a warm layer, since January evenings can be cool.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check official dates each year
- Book a room in Mehsana early
- Carry a warm layer for the evening
- Arrange a driver for the return
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Sun Temple, Modhera
- Time needed
- One evening, from about 6:30 pm
- Best time
- Mid-January, after Uttarayan
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Evening temperatures in January are cool. The walk in is on level paths, but seating and facilities vary, and crowds can be large. Carry a layer and arrange a late return.
- Tickets and access
- The 2026 programme, reported by IANS, invited the public to attend; no fee was mentioned. Dates and entry arrangements change every year, so check with the organisers.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Uttarardha Mahotsav (Modhera Dance Festival)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Evening temperatures in January are cool. The walk in is on level paths, but seating and facilities vary, and crowds can be large. Carry a layer and arrange a late return.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When is the festival?
Mid-January. In 2026 it ran on 17 and 18 January; confirm dates for the year you travel.
Is there an entry fee?
The 2026 announcement did not mention one. Check with the organisers.
Who organises it?
The 2026 edition was announced by Gujarat's cultural department and the district administration; Wikipedia credits the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat since 1992.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.