Chettinad was an ancient kindom situated in the south-eastern region of
Tamil Nadu, on the coastal line of Bay of Bengal. Inhabited mostly by the Nagarathar community, the place is famous for its architecture.
Karaikudi was the capital of Chettinad.
Magnificent mansions are the main feature of the place. Huge bungalow type houses were built here with lime and sand in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Chettinad people are famous for their peacock dance and dances are organized in all temple functions in Chettinad. Chettinad cuisine is a specialty cuisine of Tamil Nadu.