Visalam

Dining at Visalam comes in many forms. Enjoy traditional Chettinad dishes on plaintain leaves at Sapadu Shala, al fresco breakfasts on the colonaded Garden Cafe patio or rooftop meals at the Terrace Grill. You can also join interactive cooking sessions in the kitchen! Visalam feels every inch the stately home, its hallways lined with columns and potted plants. The large pool is surrounded by well-kept lawns and walls draped in greenery and the spa provides relaxing, Ayurvedic massages.

With high ceilings and handmade Aathangudy tile floors, the spacious rooms at Visalam are decked out in traditional furnishings crafted from Burma teak. Chettinad Suites come with an ornate king-size bed, desk, vanity counter, lounge area and balcony overlooking the garden where you can enjoy a cuppa. Chettinad Rooms are quite similar but slightly smaller and some don't have a balcony. Each room also has an en-suite bathroom, tea/coffee facilities, air con and hand-woven bed linen. Soft lighting and honey-coloured floors give the rooms a warm feel.

Stroll down the laneways of Kanadukathan with your personal guide, enjoy birdwatching or even a scenic cycle. See the morning train pass, explore streets lined with antique stores and enjoy a bullock cart ride past temples and market places. Visit the nearby town of Aathangudym where the famous hand-made tiles are crafted, or venture out to one of Chettinad's many villages where aged forts and amazing rock-cut temples colour the countryside.