Visalam

Visalam is a palatial mansion once home to a proud Chettiar family (a community of merchants and bankers from the Chettinad region). Built by a father for his daughter, the mansion dates back to 1939. It provides a terrific insight into the lavish lifestyle of the Chettiars through its polished black and white marble floors, high ceilings with exquisitely carved teakwood beams, long corridors with imposing granite pillars, open-to-sky courtyards, huge kitchens and massive storerooms.

Converted into a hotel in 2005, the Visalam mansion has 16 ensuite rooms adapted to accommodate modern comforts. The spacious, air-conditioned rooms balance tradition and modernity in their interior design and an eclectic combination of antique, period-style furniture.

Dining at Visalam is a treat, with the region’s distinct local Chettinad cuisine being served either in the indoor dining hall or at the rooftop terrace (open only for dinner). The hotel’s poolside café serves light snacks and hot and cold beverages, and there is an interactive kitchen for those interested in learning about Chettinad cuisine. Leisure facilities at Visalam include a pool, and one of the popular activities on offer is a bullock cart ride through the village, visiting ancient living temples and artisans’ workshops.