This is a private full-day excursion to explore the history, culture, cuisine and crafts of the Chettinad district in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. The district gets its name from the Chettiars, a powerful and prosperous business community whose influence is clearly discernible in the region's culture, crafts and cuisine. The old wealth of the Chettiars can still be seen in the large number of elaborate 19th century mansions they built in a mix of Indian and European styles. Apart from being famous for its spicy and aromatic cuisine, Chettinad is also known for its crafts, such as the famous Athangudi handmade tiles and the Chettinad handloom sarees. Highlights • Tile and pottery making • Thirumayam fort • Chettinad style mansions • Antiques market