Chettinad Crafts And Culture Tour - From Madurai

Munnar , India

Chettinad Crafts And Culture Tour - From Madurai

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

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

Available options

1-8 Travellers

Price per person for 1-8 travellers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

A local English speaking Guide

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Madurai in the morning from where you will drive to Athangudi, a tiny village of 2000 inhabitants located in the Chettinad district. The village is renowned for its handmade floor tiles. Visit the traditional tile-making and pottery units. The brightly patterned Athangudi tiles were commissioned by the Chettiars for their mansions and are entirely handmade even today.

From Athangudi you will drive to Thirumayam Fort. Built in the 17th century, the fort has been a site of several battles and intrigues.

Next visit the small town of Kanadukathan, which is famous for its grand old-style mansions with elaborate woodwork, terracota and tile work.

Visit the antiques market in Karaikudi and the local weaving looms which produce the famous Chettinad weaves.

Apart from the places listed above, this tour also offers a great opportunity to see the living culture of Chettinad – you will see paddy farming, small villages, bazaars, shrines dedicated to folk Gods, and if the timing is right, you will also be able to see festivals and celebrations.

At the end of the tour you will be driven back to Madurai and dropped-off at your hotel.

What's not included

Additional food or drink

Items of a personal nature

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for pregnant women.

Not recommended for participants with back problems.

Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Meeting point

We will pick up traveler from their hotels / fixed point within city center.

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time, exact pickup time will be advised on reconfirmation.

About Munnar

Munnar is a picturesque hill station in Kerala, known for its sprawling tea plantations, lush greenery, and serene landscapes. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

Top Attractions

Tea Gardens

Munnar is famous for its sprawling tea plantations, which cover the rolling hills and offer breathtaking views. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy the serene landscapes.

Nature 2-3 hours Free to explore, guided tours may cost INR 200-500

Eravikulam National Park

This national park is home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and offers stunning views of the Western Ghats. The park is also known for its beautiful rolling hills and diverse flora and fauna.

Nature Half-day to full day INR 100-300

Mattupetty Dam

Mattupetty Dam is a beautiful dam surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. Visitors can enjoy boating on the reservoir and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Nature 2-3 hours INR 50-200 for boating

Echo Point

Echo Point is a scenic spot known for its natural echo phenomenon. Visitors can shout and hear their voices echo back, making it a fun and unique experience.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Top Station

Top Station is the highest point in Munnar and offers breathtaking views of the Western Ghats and the surrounding valleys. It's a popular spot for photography and enjoying the cool, misty climate.

Nature Half-day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Appam with Stew

Appam is a soft, fluffy pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk. It's typically served with a spicy coconut milk-based stew made with vegetables, meat, or seafood.

Breakfast Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Kerala Sadya

Kerala Sadya is a traditional feast served on a banana leaf, consisting of a variety of dishes like rice, sambar, avial, thoran, pachadi, and payasam. It's a must-try for those who want to experience the rich flavors of Kerala cuisine.

Lunch Vegetarian

Karimeen Pollichathu

Karimeen Pollichathu is a popular seafood dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in spices, and fried to perfection. It's a must-try for seafood lovers and those who want to experience the unique flavors of Kerala cuisine.

Dinner Non-vegetarian

Tea

Munnar is famous for its tea plantations, and visitors can enjoy a variety of teas, including black tea, green tea, and herbal teas. Tea tasting is a popular activity in Munnar, and visitors can learn about the tea-making process and sample different varieties.

Drink Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Trekking Hiking Mountain biking Tea tasting Boating Picnicking Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

September to May

This is the best time to visit Munnar, with pleasant weather and clear skies. The tea plantations are in full bloom, and the landscapes are lush and green. It's perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and enjoying the natural beauty.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malayalam
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Munnar is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a peaceful atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of overcharging and always insist on using the meter for taxis.
• Use reputable tour operators and guides, and always agree on the price and itinerary in advance.
• Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Cochin International Airport • 110 km

By train

Angamaly Railway Station

By bus

KSRTC Bus Stand, Munnar

Getting around

Public transport

The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates regular bus services within Munnar and to nearby towns. The buses are affordable and convenient for getting around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Ola

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Tea Garden Area Mattupetty Eravikulam

Day trips

Thekkady

115 km • Full day

Thekkady is a beautiful destination known for its wildlife sanctuary, spice plantations, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities like elephant rides, boat safaris, and spice plantation tours.

Kochi

135 km • Full day

Kochi is a historic city known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi, and the Mattancherry Palace.

Alleppey

175 km • Full day

Alleppey is a beautiful beach destination known for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, and scenic landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities like houseboat cruises, beach walks, and water sports.

Festivals

Munnar Flower Show • December Munnar Tea and Tourism Festival • December Onam • August-September

Pro tips

Visit the tea gardens early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best views and lighting.
Hire a local guide for trekking and hiking activities, as they can provide valuable insights and ensure your safety.
Try the local cuisine, especially the appam with stew and Kerala sadya, for an authentic taste of Kerala.
Carry warm clothing, as the temperature can drop significantly in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
Be respectful and discreet when taking photos, especially in religious sites and local communities.