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Visalam - A CGH Earth Hotel
A Chettiar mansion and sustainable bolthole
Built in 1939 in Art Deco style by a Chettiar merchant as a wedding present for his daughter, Visalam still has the charm of a family home.
Steeped in over 100 years of history, Visalam is a character palatial mansion in the heart of Chettinad and has often been described as a living museum. It was built by KVAL Ramanathan Chettiar as a gift for his eldest daughter. The ethos of CGH Earth, who now manage Visalam, is to minimise the impact on the environment, support the local community and conserve the historic building. As a result, the property has been lovingly restored using local carpenters, tile makers, weavers and stone workers. Many of the artisans are within walking or a short bike ride from Visalam. After exploring the narrow streets, temples and intricate architectural features of Chettinad, unwind at the pool or Ayurveda centre.
Why we love Visalam - A CGH Earth Hotel
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It took five years to restore the interiors and to fill the building with beautifully made period furniture and handmade tiles
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Breakfast is often served in the garden under a veranda that’s covered in bougainvillea
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The pool is chemical-free, so you feel as if you’re swimming in bottled water
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Engaging with local communities is very much part of the CGH Earth ethos
Holidays with a little extra 'wow'
Facilities
Light snacks are available at the garden and pool cafés whilst Southern Indian aromatic spices are showcased at the interactive kitchen at Sapadu Shala.
There are morning cycle rides and sunset walks to show people the village, Kanadukathan. If you want to immerse yourself into Chettinad cuisine, Visalam can arrange a cooking experience with an Aachi (elderly lady) from the village.
Though it's a small property, they have eco-friendly features such as a biogas plant and they don’t use any plastics. Working with the local community is very much part of their focus too.
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A member of Relais & Chateaux, SVATMA is a beautiful boutique property and a destination in its own right.
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