In January 2025, a group of hospitality students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln embarked on an unforgettable two-week study abroad trip to South India. This immersive journey not only provided them with insights into India's rich cultural and culinary heritage but also gave them a unique opportunity to explore the dynamic hospitality industry. The itinerary was a blend of historical landmarks, culinary adventures, and educational visits to institutes that mirror the global hospitality industry, all in the vibrant and diverse regions in South India.
Arriving in Chennai: The Gateway to South India
Our group touched down in Chennai on Jan. 3, late in the evening, and quickly settled into the rhythm of South Indian hospitality. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, is often referred to as the "Gateway to South India," thanks to its deep-rooted culture, history, and bustling tourism industry.
Day 1: Exploring Chennai's Rich History
We started at Fort St. George, a significant historical landmark from British colonial rule which boasts an impressive collection of paintings, coins, silverware, and ancient documents, providing a glimpse into the past. The students also visited San Thome Cathedral, where the tomb of St. Thomas, one of Christ's apostles, is enshrined. Later we visited Dakshinachitra, a cultural heritage village in Chennai, dedicated to preserving South India's traditional arts, architecture, and crafts. It showcases regional houses, crafts, and folk art from Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. By promoting traditional crafts, architecture, and art forms, Dakshinachitra fosters appreciation for South India's cultural diversity. It also supports sustainable practices through eco-friendly design and provides a platform for artisans, ensuring the continuation of cultural traditions for future generations. The evening featured a culinary experience in a local restaurant where students tasted traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine.
Day 2: Day Trip to Kanchipuram and Mahabalipuram
The following day, Jan. 5, offered the students a deeper dive into Tamil Nadu's spiritual and cultural fabric with a visit to Kanchipuram, one of the seven holiest cities in Hinduism. Famous for its ancient temples and exquisite silk weaving industry, the students explored the Kailasanatha Temple, built from sandstone and adorned with images of Lord Shiva. The town’s hand-woven silk fabrics, a centuries-old tradition, were also on display, offering the students a chance to take home a piece of Kanchipuram's heritage.
Next, our group continued to Mahabalipuram, an ancient port city known for its magnificent shore temples and rock-cut architecture. One of the highlights was the “Penance of Bhagirath,” the world’s largest bas-relief sculpture, depicting a legendary scene from Hindu mythology. The students marveled at the architectural precision and artistic detail of the stone carvings, which depict scenes of everyday life, and they were given the opportunity to understand how ancient cultures blended art and architecture.
Flying to Madurai: Experiencing Southern Hospitality
On day three, our group boarded a flight to Madurai, a city famed for its grand temples and rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival, the students were taken to the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, built in the 17th century and a stunning blend of Dravidian and Rajput architecture. This monumental site, once a royal residence, was a great way for students to appreciate the luxurious lifestyle of Indian royalty.
In the afternoon, we visited the Meenakshi Amman Temple, an iconic landmark known for its towering gopurams (gateway towers), which are visible from miles around. The evening was especially memorable as the group participated in the temple's evening ceremony, which involved a traditional and spiritual procession led by temple priests. For many students, this was a deeply enriching experience that provided a firsthand understanding of the role temples play in the daily lives of locals. From adorning jasmine flowers to sampling raw sugarcane and tender coconuts, this was the perfect introduction for students to immerse themselves in South Indian culture.
Day 4: Exploring Chettinad’s Rich Heritage and Cuisine
The group visited Chettinad, an area known for its historical mansions and unique architectural style. Walking through the streets of Karaikudi, students explored antique shops and witnessed the region's traditional wooden houses. A highlight of the day was lunch at Chettinad Mansion, where the students indulged in the famous Chettinad cuisine known for its bold and aromatic flavors served on a banana leaf.
Later, the students toured the Chettinad Palace, a prime example of the region's opulent past. The palace's smooth, buttery walls—achieved through an ancient technique of applying lime and egg—left the students in awe. The visit was an eye-opening experience that showcased the lavish lifestyle of the Chettiyar community, whose wealth once stemmed from trade and banking.
Kanyakumari: Where Three Oceans Meet
We set out for Kanyakumari, India’s southernmost point, where the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and the Arabian Sea converge. A visit to the Suchindram Temple, known for its magnificent white gopuram and detailed carvings, was followed by a visit to the famous Vivekananda Rock Memorial. The memorial is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda, who meditated here before attending the 1893 World Religious Parliament in Chicago. The view of the confluence of the three seas at sunrise was awe-inspiring, and the students had a chance to reflect on the spiritual and historical significance of the site.
Day 6: A Tranquil Visit to Trivandrum
We traveled to Trivandrum, a coastal city known for its serene beaches. The group visited the Kovalam Beach Resort and an Ayurveda Resort, where they learned about the connections between Kerala's culinary traditions, health practices, and Ayurveda. The students were introduced to the concept of Ayurvedic cuisine, focusing on balance and holistic wellness.
Houseboats and Kerala Cuisine: Cochin and Alleppey
The next leg of the journey took us to Alleppey, where we boarded a traditional Kerala houseboat for a three-hour backwater cruise. The tranquil backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Kerala village life, offered the students a peaceful respite. The lunch served aboard the houseboat was a true Kerala culinary experience, with dishes that reflected the rich flavors of the region, from seafood delicacies to vegetable curries.
In Cochin, we visited the famous Chinese fishing nets, an iconic image of Fort Kochi. The rhythmic process of fishing was mesmerizing, and the students appreciated the sustainable methods still in practice today. In the afternoon, the cooking demonstration with Nimmy Paul, a renowned Kerala chef, was a standout experience. Known for her expertise in traditional Kerala cuisine, Nimmy taught students to prepare iconic dishes using local ingredients and techniques. Students learned to blend spices and create flavors like those in fish curry and vegetable stew, immersing themselves in the essence of South Indian cooking. The hands-on session was both educational and delicious. That evening, the group enjoyed a Kathakali dance performance, where the intricate movements, dramatic storytelling, and elaborate costumes captivated the students, providing a window into the cultural history of Kerala.
Day 8: Exploring the Jewish Legacy in Cochin
This day we focused on Cochin’s diverse heritage, as the students explored the Jewish Synagogue and the Jewish Quarter, where they learned about the community's long history in the region. The visit to the Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, gave the students a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Another highlight was visiting Chef Pillai's restaurant in Cochin. Famous for his innovative takes on Kerala seafood, Chef Pillai’s team shared insights into traditional dishes like Fish Nirvana and Venad Paal Konch. Students learned about sourcing fresh local ingredients and the delicate techniques behind seafood preparations. The visit provided a deep dive into the region’s culinary traditions, offering students a unique perspective on South Indian cuisine, from both traditional and contemporary angles.
Learning from the Local Communities: Kudumbasree and Culinary Mastery
The final day in Cochin, Jan. 14, provided a unique cultural immersion as the students visited the Kudumbasree women’s cooperative in Paravoor, where local women are empowered through various economic activities, including handloom weaving. The visit included a cooking demonstration followed by a traditional Kerala lunch, showcasing local flavors like Fish Mappas, Appam, and vegetable curries. Students had the opportunity to wear traditional Indian clothes and immerse themselves in the culture through dance, music, cooking, and interactions with locals. Later the group flew back to Chennai from Cochin, preparing for their return to the U.S.
A Fond Farewell and Departure
On the final day of the trip, it was a blend of relaxation and reflection, starting with some serious shopping in Chennai, followed by a visit to my parents' home and a stroll along Marina Beach. The farewell dinner was a delicious South Indian buffet at the Savera Hotel, offering a perfect conclusion to the trip. Afterward, the group was transferred to the airport for their evening flight, wrapping up an unforgettable journey filled with education, cultural immersion, and hospitality experiences that will leave lasting memories.
College of Education and Human Sciences
Nutrition and Health Sciences
