VVR Heritage House, Kanadukathan, Chettinad

This house welcomes visitors for a Rs. 50 fee. While we were exploring on our own, a young tour guide named Jesmin offered to give us a tour, which made the experience even more fascinating. I'd recommend having a guide to understand the house better. To summarize, be sure to take note of the Burma teak doors and pillars, the 'thinnai' where Chettiars conducted business transactions, the corridors adorned with 200-year-old Athangudi tiles, limestone walls, the hooks in the wooden ceilings (used for baby cradles), and some rooms in the main courtyard with silver goddesses. We were told these belonged to sons who brought in higher incomes for the family. Don't miss the wall paintings either – paying attention to these details is a must.

Kanadukathan, which is around 15 kilometres from Karaikudi, is considered one of the best places to admire the heritage houses of the Chettiyar community built between the mid-1800s and early 1900s. Chettiyars were a prominent business community who were involved in sea trade to different countries of Southeast Asia. They dealt in the business of salt, spices, gems, etc. Many of them were and are still well-known bankers.

This exposure to the world per se heavily influenced the way they lived. Their houses are a direct representation of their wealth, social status, and most importantly their attitude of imbibing the best of the world.

A casual stroll around this village and you will realise that you have been transported to a different time and space. It has all the essentials of a village life but just turn around and you get a feel of being in some Southeast Asian tropical region.

Must visit to witness our heritage.
Truly maintained. Among three possible visit any one during your chettinad stay

Nothing short of a wonder! A typical Chettinad Marvel that you can't miss when you are around this region.

Must visit place for authenticate Chettinadu house

gud place to visit old heritage house

nice

Video not allowed, only pictures,200 years old house,100 members family, ulla irukka grandma over talking,,barma teak wood , nilai vaasal ku keela ore stone la senja oru foot step ston irukum , sema ,and nilai fulla ore marathula senja design,and entry fees 50rs , but cost konjam jasthi than , because video eduka vidala , but kandipa visit pannunga

Our visit to VVR Heritage House was a unique journey into the past. Despite its near-dilapidated condition, the charm of this historical residence is undeniable. The lack of crowds provided an intimate experience, allowing us to explore the house at our own pace. The elderly caretaker couple added a personal touch, sharing stories that breathed life into the aged walls.

The standout features included a magnificent Burmese teak door adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The faded Athangudi tiles underfoot echoed tales of a rich history. Notably, the imported fittings hinted at the house's grandeur during its prime.

While the house may need restoration, its authenticity shines through. A hidden gem for history enthusiasts, VVR Heritage House offers a glimpse into the opulent past of Athangudi. A visit here is like stepping back in time, a poignant reminder of the need to preserve our architectural heritage.

For those who have visited and lived in South Indian houses, this will not be very impressive. For looking at houses in particular you can explore old living houses in coastal Karnataka and Kerala to find houses of similar grandeur. Woodwork is quite impressive, especially the main door & roof.

Owners do not stay here. Amma that stays here will enthusiastically show whatever she knows of the house in broken english. You pay whatever you like to her.

One of the two open houses which are allowed visitors. It is good to visit this old mansion. Lot of wood carvings, especially on the front door worth to watch. They will charge Rs.50 per person as entry fee.

Place is good but lighting is poor. No much info on how old is the property. The work in entrance door alone is worth your visit. The pillars and Thinnai are also good. They will charge Rs.50/- per head to explore the property.

Two aged people are the caretakers of the house and they let you into the accessible areas of the mansion. Only very few areas are accessible to the public