Visalam Chettinad Palace - A CGH Earth Experience

Before becoming a boutique heritage stay, Visalam Chettinad Palace was built in 1939 as a wedding gift from KVAL Ramanathan Chettiar to his eldest daughter, Visalakshi. Its design reflected the era of its construction, displaying an Art Deco exterior yet classic Chettinad interiors. Like many mansions in that era, however, the palace also fell into neglect.

It wasn't until the CGH Earth Group stepped in that Visalam Chettinad Palace was brought back to life. Like many of their properties around India, such as Maison Perumal in Pondicherry, the company set about not just restoring its historical architecture, but also creating an establishment that teaches guests to cherish culture and heritage.

When it was built in 1939, Visalam Chettinad Palace embraced popular architectural styles of the time, particularly Art Deco. The exterior features modernist approaches while incorporating native motifs and design conventions, inadvertently turning the mansion into an example of handsome Indo-Deco.

As a display of Chettiar wealth and influence, the mansion used various materials imported from around the world. The doors and pillars were made of Burmese teakwood, while the floors were of Italian marble. Fixtures were also foreign-made, such as the Belgian chandeliers and British cast-iron stairs. Complementing these international design elements are native ones, such as colorful floor tiles made in neighboring Aathangudi, and bedding and cushions handcrafted by the Chettinadu's weavers.

Visalam Chettinad Palace has four on-site restaurants, each one with its unique dining setting and novel take on using India's wealth of spices and seasonings.

Sapadu Shala is a cozy, private dining room featuring Tamizh vazhai ilai sapadu cuisine, a spread served on banana leaves and eaten with hands. For those who like a breezy, alfresco location with views, the Terrace Grill is a rooftop that overlooks the property and neighborhood. Another refreshing spot is the Garden Cafe, where guests can savor teas and coffees alongside freshly made snacks while surrounded by greenery and flowers. Last but not least, the Pool Cafe offers a cozy waterside setting for breakfasts and snacks.

Always integrated with the CGH Earth Group's hotels are programs that promote and preserve the local heritage and culture of that location. In the case of Visalam Chettinad Palace, they have a selection of immersive and thought-provoking experiences centered on the traditions of Chettinadu.

At the hotel, guests are welcome to admire the mansion's many heritage features, such as the ornately decorated halls. They are also welcome to visit the kitchens, where they can interact and even learn from the local cooks and culinarians who prepare the day's meals.

If you'd like to go outside and explore, there are two excellent ways of getting around: first is via a rental bike, if you'd like to sightsee at your own pace, while the second is booking a bullock cart ride, which takes you to important spots in Chettinadu. While in town, you can drop by local workshops to watch artisans craft traditional goods such as handmade tiles and colorful cotton fabrics. The region is also a treasure trove of old architecture and historic landmarks. Chettinadu is home to many other Chettiar mansions that remain well-preserved or have been restored. Neighboring villages also have these heritage houses, along with ancient temples like Pillayarpatti Vinayagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.