The Bangala, the Tamil
pronunciation of "the bungalow", is a complex of rustic buildings built
over the last 75 years, on the outskirts of Karaikudi, Chettinad's
largest town. Recently renovated and refurbished, the property has been
reborn as a heritage hotel. Karaikudi and 74 other villages comprise
Chettinad, the homeland of the Nattukottai Chettiars. The Chettiars were
a prosperous banking community who ventured overseas to do business in
South Asia in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The legacies they left
behind are the fascinating mansions of Chettinad that have to be seen to
be believed. Run as a small family establishment The Bangala offers warm
hospitality and home-cooked Chettinad cuisine.