Explore Chettinad Architecture

Chettinad is the home to the Chettiars, a prosperous mercantile community. Apart from many other things this place is well known for its fiery cuisine and architecture. Most of the palatial 18th century mansions that one will get to see here were built using materials imported from east Asian countries and Europe about 100 years ago.

Temples of Chettinad

Each of the 73 villages have traditional chola style temples that stand testimony to the spiritual beliefs of local people. Each temple has its own tank called an Oorani and most of the village activities are centered around the temple.

Culinary Experience

The celebrated Chettinad cuisine is one of the spiciest and the most aromatic in India. The fresh ground masalas give it the distinctive integrity in taste. The cuisine that is pre dominantly non vegetarian stretches out into interesting snacks and delectable vegetarian dishes too. At Visalam, one can learn to cook Chettinad cuisine with a lady who hails from the local community.

Athangudy Tile Makers

Aathangudy, a village situated about 10 Kms from Visalam is a place famous for its hand made tiles. There are over one hundred small scale tile factories in this village where the entire tile making process is carried out by human hands.

Handloom Cotton Weavers

The famed Chettinad's Cotton sarees and textiles are woven on in small handloom home units across Chettinad. A couple minutes walk away from Visalam is one such handloom unit making the most vibrant Indian textile.

Bullock Cart Ride

You can explore Chettinad's old streets, temples, markets and antique stores from the comfort of a bullock cart ride; taking you back in time to a forgotten era.

Cycling around Chettinad

For those who prefer to bike around, Visalam provides you with cycles to go exploring the narrow bylanes of Chettinad.