The Bangala

At The Bengala's center is a large and inviting pool, surrounded by pinstriped loungers and pockets of greenery. Plus, a massage room for extra relaxation! The family kitchen is the crowning glory with traditional and inventive dishes all served on banana leaves. The dining hall is decorated with teak furnishings, crafted brass lamps and celebrated Raja Ravi Verma paintings. Enjoy yoga sessions by the poolside gallery and recline with a book on the expansive verandas or in the cosy lounge, which is decked out in arm chairs and colourful scatter cushions.

The rooms at The Bengala have a traditional, homely look with gleaming green or red floors and dark wooden furnishings. The selection of twin or 4-poster bedrooms each have a living area, wardrobe and en-suite bathroom. When the wooden shutters are open, high windows fill the rooms with natural light and Black and white photos line the walls. The rooms open onto a furnished veranda, decorated with framed paintings and colourful furnishings.

The villages of Chettinad have quite the architectural legacy, which you can enjoy on a heritage walk past temples and grand homes. Get a glimpse into village life with a visit to the travelling shandi (or market), and watch local artisans at work along the way. You could pick up hand-woven Chettinad cotton items in bright colours or pay a visit to the nearby town of Athangudi to try your hand at designing tiles. There's a collection of stunning forts and shrines in neighbouring towns - definitely worth the day trip.