Athangudi Palace: Heritage Mansion of South India

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Located in Sivaganga District of Tamil Nadu, Athangudi Palace is a classic example of the traditional Chettinad architecture. It belongs to Sri MAM Ramaswamy and currently managed by a descendant of the same family. The town is full of old mansions; most of them are in ruins while some have worn out facades but grand interiors. The people of the area are pro in the art of tile-making and made a trademark of their own in Athangudi. 

The architecture of the palace is grand and closely linked to the lifecycle of the Chettiar community. There is a pillared veranda at the entrance known as ‘thinnai’ for receiving visitors and entertaining business dealings. The floor area, ceilings, walls are beautifully painted and carved with great detail. The palace has heavy ornate wooden doors leading to the main hall. There are more than 100 rooms in the mansion and the dining room is more than 50 ft. in length.

Athangudi village is known for making handmade terracotta tiles. These tiles are built using cement, sand, synthetic oxides, belly jelly, then shaped and sun-dried after which they are adorned with artistically made patterns to give a unique texture. You can purchase and get the tiles in colours matching your walls and upholstery.

If you have time and want to explore more in the Chettinad area, can do the following:

  • Visit Pillayarpatti Temple, an ancient rock-cut cave shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
  • You may go to Athangudi market to buy antique pieces of stuff.
  • Attend a tile making process displayed in small scale home industries of Athangudi.
  • Visit Chettinad weaving centres to see the weaving process of stunning Chettinad cotton sarees and textiles.
  • Try lip-smacking, finger-licking Chettinad cuisine.

Tour Timings: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm, Every day

Entry Fee: Rs.50

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