The Bangala

Experience traditional Chettinad hospitality and its rich culture at The Bangala, a century-old mansion in the heart of Karaikudi, converted into a boutique hotel.

Check into rooms built around the central courtyard decorated with traditional elements such as antique wooden beds and locally sourced coloured tiles (Athangudi tiles) along with modern conveniences and services such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi. Some of the rooms have sit-outs that overlook the pool and surrounding greenery. Realign your chakras with an invigorating yoga session amid lush vegetation in the morning. Follow this up by relishing a sumptuous breakfast spread. Visit beautiful Chettinad mansions, shop for exquisite antiques as well as handmade Athangudi tiles and explore nearby villages. Return to enjoy a traditional ‘ilai saapadu’ or lunch served on a banana leaf and eaten with your hands. Food in The Bangala is prepared with care and passion, with many dishes based on family heirloom recipes. In fact, the restaurant was voted one of the ten best restaurants in India by Conde Nast Traveller in 2019. Food aficionados can also sign up for a cooking demonstration or unravel the secrets of Chettinad cuisine in a master class. Unwind with a few leisurely laps in the outdoor pool, or find a quiet nook to finish a book. The Bangala promises a distinct cultural experience and a peek into the lives and culture of the Chettiars who hail from the region.