The Nishagandhi Dance Festival is a seven-day cultural event held at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in the lush grounds of Kanakakunnu Palace, Thiruvananthapuram. Each evening showcases various classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Mohiniyattam, Manipuri, and Kuchipudi, performed by both renowned artists and emerging talents. The festival also features Kathakali performances, classical music, arts and crafts exhibitions, and a food festival, offering a rich cultural experience. Entry is free, making it accessible to a broad audience. 

The festival is set in the historic Kanakakunnu Palace, built by Sree Moolam Thirunal. This cultural landmark in Trivandrum hosts numerous events and provides a majestic backdrop for the festival, drawing large crowds of tourists and dance enthusiasts. The palace, known for its architectural beauty, has been declared a heritage structure by INTACH and is a reminder of the city's royal legacy.

Organized by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, the festival aims to promote Indian heritage and culture, attracting numerous foreign tourists. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, featuring performances by established artists and rising stars. The Nishagandhi Puraskaram, an award instituted in 2013, is presented to outstanding performers in the field of dance, enhancing the festival's prestige. 

Highlights from the 2024 Festival: In 2024, the festival concluded with notable performances, including Madhusmita Bora and Prerona Bhuyan's Sattriya, Padma Shri Malavika Sarukkai's Bharatanatyam, and Dr. Sinam Basu Singh and Group's Manipuri dance. Each evening ended with a Kathakali Melam, highlighting Kerala's traditional dance drama. The Nishagandhi Dance Festival offered a magical experience, celebrating the beauty and rhythm of Indian classical dance. Visitors witnessed a vibrant celebration of art and culture.