Chettinad is famous for its hot, spicy, non vegetarian cuisine – pepper chicken is one of the most popular dishes. The food is prepared in copper vessels and served on plantain leaves. 

The native land of Tamil Nadu's rich merchant community "Chettiars" (The Nagarathars) who were businessmen travelled far to make their fortunes. The towns of Karaikudi, Devakottai and their neighbouring villages collectively known as Chettinadu. It was uniquely differentiated by large ornate mansions which are ancestral homes to the chettiars.

 

   The houses built in the early 20th century reflect the social, ritual needs of the community as well as shows the economic status. The houses remain closed but still in use for any family ceremonies. Some of the interesting activities to do are Village visit by bullock cart, ceramic tiles making in Athangudi village, Weaving centre, Public School etc.

Chettinad district located at Karaikudi, the heart of the Chettinad area, has several temples, including the 7th century Pillaiyarpati Temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It also has fine Chettiar mansions, and antique shops stocked with treasures from these mansions. 

Chettiar Mansions is the arid region encompassing the towns of Karaikudi. Devakottai and their neighbouring villages, collectively known as Chettinad, is distinguished by large ornate mansions which are the ancestral homes of the Chettiars, Tamil Nadu's rich merchant community. Like the Marwaris of Shekhavati,the Chettiars were astute business men who travelled far to make their fortunes. The wealth they acquired in Burma, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Vietnam was used to build these elaborate mansions. Today, the Chettiars are prominent bankers and industrialists based in Chennai and Bangalore.