The chettinad mansion is one of several old palatial homes converted into a heritage hotel. They were built by men who once traded in everything from salt to gems, with countries like Burma, Malaysia and Singapore. But in the mid-20th centuries, most chettiar families moved to cities such as Chennai. Their homes were left in the custody of caretakers, who maintained them for those rare occasions such as weddings or Pongal, the tamil harvest festival, when the family comes to visit.
The Periya Veedu in Athangudi is exceptionally beautiful and well-maintained. Every surface in this mansion gleams, from the Spanish tiles on the roof, to the teak pillars from Burma, stained-glass windows from Italy and murals painted above the pillars. Usually open to visitors between 9 a.m to 4 p.m. The entry tickets cost around Rs.100 per person. Pallathur, Devakottai and Kothamangalam villages are also known for grand mansions and are within 50km radius from Karaikudi.
Like the most of the big Chettinad mansions, the Ayiram Jannal Veedu and Chettinad Palace are also very grand and magnificent but unfortunately visitors are not allowed to enter, so you can catch a glimpse of the palace from outside.
The fifth-century Pillayarpatti Temple is not be missed. Venerated as Karpaga Vinayakar, it is considered the most significant of the nine important shrines to Ganesha and Shiva in this region.
Besides the famous Chettinad chicken, the region is known for its flavourful and spicy cuisine. Their breakfast includes paniyaram with variety of chutneys and idiyappam. Try other local delicacies and the special of the day in your hotel.
Buy cotton Sungudi saris straight off the loom. The local tie-and-dye technique of this area is used to weave Sungudi and Kandangi saris in soft cotton. And you can also do antique shopping at the main markets in Karaikudi. You will learn about the rich history of the wares they are selling.
We can reach Karaikudi by taking a train or flight to Madurai and hire a cab or auto and reach your destination. The journey takes less than one and half hours and the road conditions are very good. While exploring other towns you can travel through local bus which is very frequent like there is a bus coming for every 5 mins.
The best time to visit would be from December to early March before the summer, the climate at this time would be moderate compared to other seasons of the year.
-Nandhitha.S
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