Embrace the Chettinad Way of Life at Visalam
A 70 year old Chettinad Mansion in Tamil Nadu
Visalam, a 70-year-old palatial mansion, is a Chettiar heirloom that harbours the legacy of paternal love and nostalgia. A gift built both by love and with love; history and local residents have had a role in its evolution.
The estate is located in Kanadukathan, one of the nine residential villages of the mercantile Chettiar community. Nestled by robust trading neighbourhoods interspersed with antique East Asian, South Indian and colonial-style structures, it embodies the essence of the Chettinad lifestyle. It is no less than an experiential souvenir for travellers with a palate for heritage and culture.
Unique Activities
Take the Scenic Road Through History
A stark contrast to the magnificence of Chettinad mansions is the simplicity nuanced in its architecture, people and way of life. Visalam is favourably situated to give you the best experience of the locale.
Take a trip to old town streets on an e-bike. Imbibe lively markets dealing in woodwork, crafts, textiles, jewellery, sculptures and antiques. You can opt for a cycle or bullock cart ride for a more genuine experience.
Visit the breathtakingly lavish Kanadukathan, Athangudi palaces, and the renowned 1800-year-old Pallayiar Patti temple. Antique shops in Karaikudi are every collector's paradise. You will find everything from vintage suitcases and gramophones to chandeliers and period furniture here.
Discover chakra weavers in Kadanthukathan and tile-makers of Athangudi (10 kilometres away). Witness cotton fabrics and handmade tiles come to life.
Unwind with an Ayurvedic Massage or a Refreshing Swim
Unwind while soaking up the meditative quality and nuances of the local ambience at Visalam. Ayurvedic herbal massages and relaxing therapies are a must-try here. De-stress your body by surrendering to the magic of aromatic herbal oils and well-trained masseuses.
Take a relaxing dive into the spacious, modern pool with a scenic view of the garden and the estate’s traditional facades. If you are into some quiet reading or personal conversations, the open garden with conspicuous lush greenery and bountiful allamanda and bougainvillaea blooms will be a welcome setting for you.
Lodging
Feel at Home at Visalam
You will discover visually pleasing rooms with serene solo balconies, lofty ceilings ornate with chandeliers, impressive wooden craftsmanship and well-known Athangudi handmade tile flooring. Classical furniture made of Burmese teak, pillars with intricate carvings, bed linen, runners and cushions sourced from famed handloom weavers of Chettinad all promise you an experience of luxury, comfort and hospitality.
A unique feature of this villa is also its pearly white wall texture. The base mixture for plastering is made from raw eggshells, lime, palm jaggery and seashells finely ground together by hand. The final polishing uses egg whites, a technique known only to a few in the occupation.
Dining
A Flavour for Every Palate
At Visalam, you embark on an authentic and classic culinary adventure. Chettinad cuisine is known for its aroma and fiery spices. The antique brass utensils perfectly complement the freshly handpicked garden herbs and fragrant Southeast Asian spice blends. A sublime dining experience is assured while you feast on delectable gourmet meals.
Vazhai ilai sapadu, or banana leaf meal, is an all-encompassing gastronomic delight served during festive occasions. It consists of steam-boiled rice with an assortment of lip-smacking side dishes and curries, each made of different flavours. Idlis, dosa and appams are staples here. Paniyarams and adhirasams are a must-try.
Dine leisurely at sapadu shala, the terrace grill, and the poolside and garden cafes. Tea kadai (shop cart) is parked in the garden to address your morning or evening beverage and snack cravings. You can witness the making of murukkus (a local snack) by Aachis (grandmothers) at Chettinad Mithai. Gastronauts can book live interactive kitchen sessions and learn to make local recipes with the chef de cuisine.
Sustainability Story
Sustainability is paramount at Visalam. Efficient waste management, renewable energy and rainwater harvesting ensure your stay has a lighter impact on the planet.
CGH Earth, which owns Visalam, is committed to responsible tourism, providing experiences rooted in the local culture and communities while ensuring zero damage to their natural habitats.
What every tourist may find rewarding at Visalam is the enduring, symbiotic relationship it keeps with the local people and traditions. The staff, vendors, guides and interpreters who welcome you with warm smiles are individuals from local villages.
Timeless as the culture and locality, untainted by whispers of progress, it bids one to dig into 'their roots' and make new happy memories.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at Visalam
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