Shri Akkamahadevi Kalyana Mantapa

Akkamahadevi is in Ideal Homes Layout, Kenchenhalli, on a dead-end residential lane away from the main road. That is both its selling point and its limit: guests arrive without traffic, but there is room for around sixty vehicles, so plan how people get there.

The main hall is air-conditioned and pillarless, so every seat has a view of the stage. There is a separate dining hall and rooms on site. The listings say between 10 and 12 rooms, so ask for the number and how many are air-conditioned.

In-house catering is available and outside caterers are allowed, vegetarian only. Outside decorators are allowed too. Alcohol is not permitted.

Recent visitors raised two things: a congested gents' toilet block, and how well the kitchen is cleaned after use. Look at both on your visit. Older reviews mention a drain nearby and a smell, so go on a warm afternoon, not a cool morning.