Set within the heritage‑rich town of Kanadukathan, the newly restored 18th‑century Lotus Palace brings a rare blend of history, artistry, and contemporary comfort to one of India’s most culturally layered regions.
With just 15 rooms, this boutique property offers an intimate, quietly luxurious base for business travellers seeking both efficiency and a sense of place.
The palace’s architectural pedigree is immediately striking.
Originally built in the late 1700s, it reflects a confluence of Tamil, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and Neo‑classical influences—an aesthetic tapestry that mirrors the eclectic tastes of the Chettiar merchant families who shaped the region. Kanadukathan itself is famed for its grand Chettinad mansions, richly spiced cuisine, and ornate palaces, and the Lotus Palace sits comfortably within this lineage of craftsmanship and cultural depth.
Inside, the restoration has been handled with a light, respectful touch. High ceilings, carved wooden doors, and patterned tilework anchor the building in its past, while soft lighting, curated antiques, and contemporary textiles create a warm, lived‑in elegance. Each of the 15 rooms is individually styled, balancing heritage architecture with modern functionality. Expect generous proportions, polished stone or tiled floors, and handcrafted furnishings that nod to Chettinad design traditions. Bathrooms are spacious and well‑appointed, featuring walk‑in showers, quality fixtures, and a thoughtful selection of toiletries that feel suitably premium without being ostentatious.
For business travellers, the Lotus Palace offers a calm, distraction free environment—ideal for decompressing between meetings or preparing for the day ahead. Wi‑Fi is reliable throughout, and several quiet corners of the property lend themselves naturally to working, reading, or private calls. The intimate scale of the hotel ensures personalised service, with staff adept at arranging transport, local guides, or tailored itineraries that fit around a tight schedule.
Beyond the rooms, the palace’s shared spaces are a highlight.
Shaded courtyards, breezy verandas, and small garden pockets create a sense of serenity, while the dining room celebrates the region’s celebrated Chettinad cuisine—rich, aromatic, and deeply rooted in local tradition. For guests with limited time, the kitchen can adapt menus to lighter or quicker options without compromising flavour.
The hotel’s location places travellers within reach of some of India’s most colourful temples, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering opportunities for meaningful cultural immersion between business commitments. And as part of THE Park Hotels’ growing portfolio, the Lotus Palace benefits from a polished operational backbone while retaining its distinct identity.
For those travelling on business who value authenticity, tranquillity, and a strong sense of heritage, the Lotus Palace offers a compelling and memorable stay—one that turns a work trip into something far richer.