Chettinadu - A unique living heritage deep in South India

The Chettinadu means country of the Chettiars. The Chettiars belong to al ineage of wealthy traders and financiers who made their fortunes by extending their business to the whole of Southeast Asia, particularly during the 19th century, when they were at the peak of their economic power.

The golden age of the community was from1850 to1930 after the opening of the Suez Canal when they established a financial empire in Burma, Sri Lanka and Singapore.

This region has some of the finest residences in the world. Chettinad mansions are privately held properties with deep rooted traditions. The families may have migrate.d, but descendants still return here to celebrate life events The architectural styling is standardised , but each of these palatial homes has a hundred artistic touches that distinguish them handsomely.

The Chettinad region comprises a great number of striking “Art Deco” style houses (also called “French Art Deco”). Largely built in the 1940/1950’s, the buildings display architectural elements of different influences taken from both East and West. Many villages have examples of this typical late Art Deco style. Karaikkudi has an important Art-Deco quarter, which includes the Thousand Windows House making it ideal for heritage walks.

Kanadukathan is the epicenter of the current tourism trail in Chettinad. It is the village where is located the Rajas’ palace and two of the mansions converted into heritage hotels. The visitors can appreciate its peaceful ambience in a semi urban context: large South/North streets , Italian architectural style.

IndiaTravellers offer tailor-made itineraries for Chettinadu and Tamilnadu/South region to introduce visitors to the region, focusing on unique experiences. 
  

Art Deco Trail

Walk around the important 1920-40’s area of Karaikkudi with a visit to the 1000 Windows House. Other villages such as Kanadukathan, Kothamangalam or Rayavaram contain examples of  Art Deco architectural heritage.

Handicraft Trail

Metal work in Pallathur; wood work; chariot makers and handloom weaving in Karaikkudi; Concrete tiles in Athangudi; Kotans near Pillaiyarpatti; Kollam workshop in a variety of villages.

Cuisine Testing & Training

A Chettinad cuisine experience in hotels or as a participative experience with local residents. A visit to the weekly local Chettinadu Shandies (village market)

A Chettinad thali has a rich and varied palette of flavours. A number of recipes make use of game birds like quail. The fishing villages on the Bay of Bengal also provide a rich assortment of seafood, apart from fresh meats and local produce. Fried Murrell, delicately spiced lamb, robust curries with top-notes of fresh pepper and raw mango

             
Photos: Param@IndiaTravellers