Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited (ASPHL) has announced the opening of THE Lotus Palace Chettinad, a heritage hotel nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu’s Chettinad region, under THE Park Collection brand. Located in the historic town of Kanadukathan, near Karaikudi, the hotel stands as a beautifully conserved and restored architectural marvel, reflecting the rich legacy of the Chettiar community. Built in the late 17th century, the palace showcases Chettinad’s opulent heritage and is a testament to ASPHL’s commitment to preserving India’s cultural treasures.
Chettinad, also known as the “Land of the Chettiars,” is a region steeped in history, known for its grand mansions and revered Chola and Pandya temples. With over 96 towns, it has long been a draw for heritage travelers seeking to explore South India’s unique architecture and cultural richness.
The architecture of THE Lotus Palace Chettinad follows a Maximalist approach, blending traditional Chettinad design with modern elements. The palace’s Burmese teak wood-carved entry doors and expansive open-air courtyards with intricate wooden and stone-carved pillars have been meticulously preserved. The central courtyard features a stunning Sahasradala Padma (1000-petal lotus) pattern, a tribute to traditional kolam (rangoli) designs popular in Tamil Nadu homes.
The hotel offers 15 heritage rooms, each adorned with antique furniture and design elements that pay homage to the region’s history, including turquoise green “athangudi” tiles. For dining, 86 Pillars, the hotel’s Chettinad Thali restaurant, offers a curated selection of traditional Chettinad dishes, such as Karaikudi Attu Kari Kuzhambu and the Lotus Palace Thali, an immersive 15-dish meal experience.
The bar, 1795, named after the palace’s reputed year of construction, offers handcrafted cocktails and Asian-inspired snacks in a serene ambiance, while the poolside bar lounge Aqua invites guests to unwind beside a pristine blue pool.
Other key features include The Red Room, an exclusive space for in-house guests, inspired by the Chettiar family’s treasured Burmese lacquer, offering high tea and an intimate retreat. Aura, the hotel’s luxury spa, offers signature therapies and stunning views from the Sunset Terrace, where guests can relax and take in the village landscape.
Architect Kaushik Mukherjee spearheaded the restoration, blending authentic Chettinad charm with modern luxury. Commenting on the launch, Priya Paul, Chairperson of Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels, said, “We are thrilled to open THE Lotus Palace Chettinad, celebrating its unique architectural style. We are bringing THE Park Spirit to this spectacular mansion, merging age-old traditions with contemporary luxury, sought by global travelers.”
Vijay Dewan, Managing Director of ASPHL, emphasized the strategic importance of the new hotel: “Our investment in Chettinad reflects our confidence in the region’s potential as a unique travel destination, contributing positively to both our bottom line and the local economy.”
