Located between Trichy and Madurai in the heart of the Chettinad community, Visalam is a lovingly restored mansion and an ideal stop over during an off the beaten track tour of Tamil Nadu. The 15 heritage rooms are elegant ensuring a peaceful stay.
Highlights
Visalam exudes peace, relaxation and beauty
Lovingly restored without compromising on modern amenities and service
Exception service and comfort- not easily found in this less visited part of India
Get a real feel for Chettinad traditions
The Chettinad region is famous for its excellent cuisine, beautiful temples and extravagant mansions built over the years by the Nattukottai Chettiars, a prosperous banking and business community. A couple of nights here will allow you to experience their legacy - an area now rich in cultural heritage, art and architecture, alongside the quiet and rustic charm of the now predominant farming community.
Vislam is the latest addition to the CGH Earth group of hotels and so guarantees a level of service and comfort that is not easily found in this less visited part of India. Built during the war and, very unusually for the daughter of a local merchant, the property exudes the simple grandeur of the period’s elite. Renovated with care and now benefiting from modern comforts such as air conditioning and a swimming pool, the 15-room property still benefits from an elegant heritage feel.
There are three dining spaces; the breakfast lounge, lunch room, and terrace deck offering traditional Chettinad cuisine. The staff are welcoming and invite you to get involved in Chettinad traditions such as morning ‘rangoli’, sprinkling coloured rice powder in geometric decorative patterns in the hallways; making 'Poomalai’ or flower garlands; or learn to play the traditional Tamil board game, 'Pallanguli'.
When to visit
Visalam is very popular so book well in advance.
Speak to an Expert on India
Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.
Enquire NowHorse Riding
Visalam is located in the small town of Kanadukathan, a mere 16km from Karaikudi, in Tamil Nadu, south east India.
Fly into Chennai's International Airport, followed by a 1-hour 20-minute domestic flights to Madurai. Visalam is a 2-hour road transfer from the airport. More suited to part of a wider itinerary.
Rajakkad Estate
Rajakkad Estate is a beautiful and cosy retreat hidden in the hills of Tamil Nadu, offering a traveller their own secret hideout and surrounding area to explore. Enjoy yoga, walking trails or simply relax in the gardens.
La Villa
La Villa is a luxury boutique hotel located in the town of Pondicherry in Tamil Nadu, India and is a beautifully restored historic 19th century French Manor House. With just six fantastic suites, La Villa is a triumph of design and thoughtful restoration.
Heritage Madurai
Formerly the British Madurai Club, the Heritage Madurai offers a soothing oasis in this busy city. Recently beautifully restored, modernised and extended, the property now offers 72 gorgeous rooms including 35 villas in 17 acres of lush green gardens.
The Trident Chennai
The Trident Chennai is conveniently located close to the airport, and 10 minutes from Chennai. Set amongst five acres of lush, tropical gardens, the elegant hotel caters offers 167 rooms, business facilities, bar, restaurants, gymnasium and spa.
Mantra Koodam
Mantra Koodam offers a refined yet authentic retreat in Tamil Nadu’s temple town of Kumbakonam, with heritage-inspired cottages, curated cultural experiences, and tranquil surroundings steeped in spirituality.
The Leela Palace Chennai
With its sea-facing location, The Leela Palace Chennai brings opulence and modern comforts to Chennai. Close to the business district in the heart of the city, here relax at the spa by ESPA, the exclusive Club Lounge or one of the six dining options.
Gateway Madurai
The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai, Madurai is set in 62 acres and gives you an opportunity to relax in peaceful gardens away from city life.
Palais de Mahe
The Palais de Mahe is located in the old French quarter of Pondicherry in India, just 50 metres the from seafront. It is a colonial style boutique hotel with just 18 rooms and is an elegant and charming option for those on a tour through Tamil Nadu.
City Tour Of Madurai
After an early breakfast head out to enjoy a tour of Madurai, one of the oldest cities in India and the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.
Guided tour of the French Quarter
Walk around the French Quarter with your guide and learn about this unique part of Pondicherry and how the French legacy is still preserved.
