A Regal Homestay in
The Land of Mangoes
Perched atop the undulating hills of Vathalmalai near Dharmapuri, where mango orchards stretch toward the horizon, lies The Honeychilk Palace—a home that feels both familiar and rare. The journey to this charming homestay leads you through scenic drives lined with lush greenery and quaint hamlets, culminating in a thrilling ascent along a winding ghat road with 26 hairpin bends.
Built in the enduring elegance of Chettinad architecture, this palace-home offers 4 spacious, thoughtfully appointed bedrooms. The design strikes a perfect balance between tradition and comfort, with intricate wooden details, red-tiled roofs, and expansive verandas that invite the natural beauty of the surroundings inside. Sunlight pours into the courtyards, filling the space with warmth and tranquility, offering a serene place to relax and unwind.
The Honeychilk Palace is more than just a getaway—it’s a chance to experience the soul of Tamil Nadu in its truest form. The home’s traditional clay-tiled roofs, vibrant Athangudi tiles, and finely crafted wooden windows reflect the region’s rich heritage, while modern comforts seamlessly enhance the experience, making every corner a blend of beauty and ease.
The 4 bedrooms are sanctuaries of peace, each adorned with carefully selected wooden furnishings. High ceilings with exposed beams offer an expansive feel, while private verandas open to sweeping views of the surrounding hills. Contemporary amenities, including Wi-Fi and a pool tucked into the lush landscape, complete the experience, ensuring a stay that is both relaxed and indulgent.
01
The Location
Dharmapuri, located in northern Tamil Nadu, is a region of rolling hills, winding rivers, and fertile plains. Known for its mango orchards, it sits along the Cauvery River, where life moves at a steady pace. From the powerful Hogenakkal Falls to fields of sunflowers, Dharmapuri offers a sense of calm and natural beauty that’s rare in busy urban life.
02
The People
The people of Dharmapuri reflect the region’s deep roots in farming and tradition. Generations of artisans, traders, and farmers have shaped the community. In the early mornings, you’ll see women drawing kolam at their doorsteps, and hear the buzz of local markets and the steady rhythm of work in the fields, creating a quiet but vibrant daily life.
03
The Culture
Dharmapuri’s culture is steeped in its history of devotion, agriculture, and art. Ancient temples dot the landscape, and festivals like Pongal bring people together for folk music and dance. Traditional Tamil homes stand proudly alongside culinary practices passed down through generations, with dishes like Kootu and Paniyaram offering a taste of the region’s flavors.
04
The Experiences
Dharmapuri is rich with experiences, from wandering through endless mango orchards to discovering ancient temples tucked between hills. Walk misty trails, explore timeless hamlets, and stumble upon forts and sacred shrines that feel quietly woven into the land. Along slow rivers, ride a coracle or taste mangoes fresh from the tree. Every moment is an easy, unhurried immersion into the region’s natural and cultural rhythms.
Rooms with Views & Stories
The Honeychilk Palace offers 4 thoughtfully designed bedrooms, each exuding its own distinct character. Whether you prefer a room facing the central courtyard or one overlooking the lush orchards, comfort and heritage are seamlessly woven together.
A Culinary Journey Through
Tamil Nadu
Savor the flavors shaped by the land, where each dish reflects the soul of the region and its timeless traditions.
At The Honeychilk Palace, food is more than just sustenance—it’s a journey through the heart of Tamil Nadu. We take pride in serving authentic dishes that reflect the region’s deep culinary roots, prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Each meal, from the early morning South Indian breakfast to the intimate dinners under a starlit sky, is a moment to celebrate Tamil heritage. Enjoy vibrant dishes like Chettinad pepper chicken, crisp masala fish fry, and sweet kuzhi paniyarams, all created with home-ground spices and traditional methods. Whether savored in the peaceful courtyard or enjoyed in a private setting, every dish tells the story of the land and its people.
Experience The Best of Dharmapuri
Dharmapuri is a rich blend of stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant cultural heritage. From sacred riversides to ancient temples, here are some must-visit places that capture the essence of this unique region:
Hogenakkal Waterfalls & Coracle Ride
The Hogenakkal Waterfalls, often called the 'Niagara of India,' are a must-visit in Dharmapuri. The majestic cascades of the Cauvery River provide stunning views and the opportunity for traditional coracle rides, offering a unique and intimate experience with nature.
Vathal Malai (Cloud Hill)
Vathal Malai, or 'Cloud Hill,' is a hidden gem offering an offbeat adventure. At over 1,000 meters, it’s home to a small tribal community amidst coffee plants and jackfruit trees. The journey up is thrilling, with misty views, ancient shrines, and panoramic vistas of Dharmapuri below.
Chenraya Perumal Temple
Located in the heart of Dharmapuri, the Chenraya Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its beautiful architecture, the temple offers a spiritual haven where visitors can connect with the region’s religious and cultural traditions.
Theerthamalai
Shri Theerthagirishwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a revered spiritual site in Theerthamalai. With intricate carvings and a peaceful environment, the temple offers both religious solace and a glimpse into the area’s rich architectural heritage.
Kottai Kovil
Kottai Kovil or The Fort Temple, located within the ruins of Pappireddipatti Fort, is dedicated to Mallikarjuneswarar and Kamatchi Ambal. This ancient temple blends spirituality with history, offering visitors a serene experience amidst the fort’s remnants.
Mettur Dam
Mettur Dam is one of India’s largest dams and an infrastructure marvel. Offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding lush landscape, the dam is vital for irrigation and power generation, and a key point of interest in Dharmapuri.
Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary
The Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary, along the banks of the river, is a sanctuary for elephants, gaurs, and deer. Its dry deciduous forests and riverine thickets house wildlife and vibrant birdlife, including peacocks. A guided trek offers visitors a chance to witness nature’s beauty in this protected haven.
Mango Orchards
Dharmapuri is famed for its vast mango orchards, bursting with flavor in the summer months. Visitors can stroll through groves, savoring the sweet fragrance of ripe mangoes and sampling the fruit directly from the tree. The market offers over 50 varieties, making it a paradise for mango lovers.
Things to Do in Dharmapuri
