BANGALA KARAIKUDI

Sometime in the 1930’s two guest rooms were added to the first building, to become what is today the block with Room 1 & 3. Subsequently the lobby and rooms 2 & 4 were built. Room No.2 was originally built as a dining room for VIP visitors. During the war years the whole family stayed here, for which the block at the back was built.
During these years the Senjai Bangala as it was known, was mainly used for entertaining VIP Visitors. The Governer of Madras, Sir Athur Hope, visited in the 1940’s. All the furniture, cutlery and crockery used by him is still in use.
Subsequently Senjai Bangala became more of a Guest House/ Club and a venue for formal tea & dinner parties during functions. There was also a tennis court. Leading players from Madras came to play tournaments in the 50’s.
In the 80’s and 90’s with the family almost entirely living in Madras, the usage of the Bangala declined drastically and the maintenance and upkeep was minimal. In due course the buildings were crumbling and in total disrepair.
In 1998, the family decided to restore it and bring it back to its former glory. After a year's hard work, the job was done and the buildings with the original furniture was brought to life. However unless it was put to proper use, we felt the building would again decay. That was when the decision to convert it into a heritage stay was made and the Bangala was born.
Starting in 1999, The Bangala now offers 25 comfortable rooms. A dining facility has been added to enable us to serve elaborate Chettinad Meals on Banana leafs, wedding style. More additions like the swimming pool and the spa to cater to the discerning traveler will find the Bangala back in it's glory days.

25

Spa & Swimming Pool.

Dip your toes or take a full plunge at the new swimming pool in the garden area.Surrender yourself at the Spa and step out a new you.If you should maintain your fitness, well nothing should stop you- Just step into the smart gym next to the spa.Get your morning cuppa served at your room as you start the day at leisure.Stay connected with Internet over Wi-fi.Lounge around in the Verandahs and dig into the old library full of classics and some local pulp as well.Step into the kitchen for a quick cooking demo or schedule an elaborate culinary demo.

The Bangala is located in the heart of Chettinad and is easily accessible by Road,Train and Air.

Madurai and Trichy, both 2 hours away, are the nearest airports, well connected to Chennai, Bengaluru and Mumbai. Trichy operates direct flights to Singapore and Malaysia on a daily basis.

Karaikudi is connected by rail to Chennai (456 km). The Rameswaram express (6701) from and to Chennai is the convenient option. All major Indian cities can be reached via Chennai.