Exploring Athangudi, A Village Where Colourful Tiles Are Made By Hand

Attangudi, often referred to as , is a picturesque village located in the Sivaganga district of Tamil Nadu. Nestled in the heart of the renowned Chettinad region, Athangudi is steeped in cultural heritage and tradition, including the art of making tiles by hand.

Athangudi: Tamil Nadu's Village Famed For Traditional Tile Making

One of the standout features of Athangudi in Tamil Nadu is its unique handmade tiles characterised by their vibrant colours and elaborate patterns. The art of crafting Athangudi tiles, a tradition over 500 years old, reflects the heritage and artistry of the craftsmen from the Chettinad region in Tamil Nadu. Many families in the village are dedicated to the art of tile production, passing down techniques and designs through generations. Each tile is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, making it a sought-after material for both local and international architecture. In 2002, the makers of the famous Chettinad Athangudi tiles, also known as Karaikudi tiles, applied for a Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the Federation of Chettinad Athangudi Heritage Flooring Tiles Manufacturer Association.

What is the Process of Making Athangudi Tiles?

These tiles feature intricate geometric patterns and floral motifs, and their exceptional quality comes from the unique handcrafting technique that uses glass surfaces.

Did you know that the tiles are made from sand sourced from Athangudi, which is quite distinctive? The tile-making process involves a careful mix of sand, cement, and belly jelly. Since they are made on glass plates, the tiles made in Athangudi have a smooth and glossy finish. Creating these tiles is time-consuming due to the handmade nature of the process. While most artisans use template-based patterns, some also create freehand designs.

Geometric Patterns

Athangudi tiles come in a variety of patterns, including geometric and floral designs, and primarily feature shades of green, blue, red, and grey. The artisans believe that the local soil gives these tiles their unique qualities. The high laterite content in the soil ensures that the tiles maintain their shine for an extended period without losing their lustre.

These tiles are commonly used to decorate the walls and floors of homes. Additionally, the tile-making process is sustainable as it does not require electricity. Hence, this ancient craft produces eco-friendly tiles with detailed designs that are in high demand both locally and internationally.

Things To See In Athangudi

The Chettinad region has emerged as one of Tamil Nadu’s unique travel destinations, featuring numerous heritage mansions that welcome visitors from around the world. The region's impressive architecture and exquisite cuisine have been the two main attractions drawing even the most discerning travellers. While you are here, here are some things to see and do.

Check Out The Architecture

Chettinad mansions are privately owned properties with deep-rooted traditions. Although the families may have migrated, their descendants continue to return to celebrate important life events. Despite facing challenges with maintenance and concerns about conservation, the owners have not yet resorted to ticketed tourism. You can stroll through the old streets, which are lined with massive mansions—some freshly painted while others stand tall, showcasing their age. Kadiapatti, Pallathur, Kothamangalam, and Kanadukathan are particularly atmospheric locations.

The Chettinad Palace, while not open to visitors, is still worth viewing from the outside. Additionally, you can visit Lakshmi House, a well-maintained mansion in Athangudi that is available for film shoots. Another notable site is the magnificent Verappa Chettiar mansion on K.V. Street in Kottaiyur, where the M.Rm.Rm. Foundation has made a commendable effort to restore old homes on a lease basis, allowing visitors to experience what makes a Chettinad mansion unique.

Indulge In Culinary Trails

The region's cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavours. The successful Chettinad merchant's table featured an array of spices and ingredients imported from foreign ports. It was infused with the herbs and spices of Indochina, complemented by fruits from Arabia and Africa, and dressed with Continental dishes, all harmoniously blended with Southern Indian staples like rice and lentils, as well as local fish and poultry.

Some of the prominent flavours that grace Chettinad palakaarams (snacks) and sappadu (meals) include freshly ground coriander, cumin, pepper, fenugreek, anise, and other spices. Some dishes to try include yerra varuval (prawn fry), kozhi vellai kurma (chicken stew), varuval (a dry preparation of chicken, fish, or sautéed vegetables with onions and spices), nandu masala (spiced crab), masala sora puttu (shark fish), nethili varuval (small fish fried and eaten whole), and milahu (pepper) chicken. Vegetarians can enjoy dishes such as beans usili (pan-fried lentil paste), nei kathirikai (ghee-fried eggplants), paruppu urundai kozhambu (lentil balls simmered in sambhar), urulai roast (potato), and samba souru (spiced rice).

Pick Up Handicrafts

A must-do on your trip is picking up local handicrafts. Don’t miss a visit to the Sri Mahalakshmi Handloom Weaving Centre on K.M. Street in Kanadukathan, which is about 15 minutes from Athangudi. Be prepared to splurge on a variety of handlooms, from cottons to kandaangis and silks, all unique to the region.

Also pick up the signature handmade Athangudi mosaics and tiles; these strikingly beautiful tiles make for charming souvenirs. You can also shop for Thanjavur paintings, which feature gold leaf and semi-precious stones in both new and antique finishes.

Lastly, visit the antique shops in Karaikkudi, where shelves are filled with items that have been discarded when mansions are dismantled.

How To Reach

The closest airport to Athangudi is Tiruchirapalli (TRZ) Airport, which is about 70 km away. The nearest railway station is Kottaiyur railway station, located approximately six km away. You can also take a bus from Tiruchirapalli to Athangudi.