• Immerse yourself in local life
• Savour the tasty regional cuisine
• See temples and visit markets
• Enjoy a game of pallanguli
• Go for a ride in a bullock cart

At Visalam you can enjoy traditional Chettinad hospitality and soak up the local atmosphere and culture, which can make a welcome break from busy sightseeing and travelling. The house was built by a prominent merchant for his daughter, and has been carefully converted to create a 15-room hotel full of character and charm, with beautiful woodwork, intricate art deco grilles and even a wrought iron spiral staircase from Birmingham!  

The staff make you feel at home, and invite you to join them in creating floral motifs out of coloured rice powder, a morning tradition, or to join them in a game of pallaguli, a local board game, or in a stick dance in the evening. Away from the hotel you can pay visits to temples, see faded mansions, tour lively markets, watch craftsmen at work and shop for souvenirs among the antique shops. A ride in a bullock cart is a lovely way to see local life. Staff are happy to help you plan your time.

Guest rooms are spacious and high-ceilinged, uncluttered and a pleasing mix of period style and modern comforts. All have en-suite bathrooms with full hot and cold running water.

There are several dining areas including the formal dining hall, open-sided restaurant and poolside cafe, all offering delicious cuisine. Regional fare makes great use of spices, and during your stay you'll have plenty of time to sample typical dishes as well as international meals. You're welcome to watch cooks at work in the interactive kitchen and can join the 3-day culinary programme if you want to learn more about local cuisine.