Welcome to Cranganor History Café & Riverside Château
Journey Through Time in Kerala
Colonial legacies knit a beautiful tapestry with Kerala’s vibrant heritage in Cranganor History Café and Riverside Château near Kochi. As you walk around the
historic port city of Muziris, ancient India’s gateway to civilizations, you will find many relics of Chinese, Arab, Dutch, Jewish, Greek and Roman life around you.
Cranganor is a labour of love for hosts and owners Rasmi Poduval and Vineeth Viswambharan and their charming daughters Tanvi and Tia. When the couple left their jet-setting corporate jobs over a decade ago, they channelled their energies to this project to nurture the region’s serene beauty and preserve its rich textile traditions.
Unique Activities
Relive History on the Muziris Trail
Nestled along the banks of the River Periyar, Cranganor offers modern comforts and sigh-inducing views. It also promises much more—a captivating journey through time. The Muziris Life and History Trail unfolds over four immersive hours, leading you through ancient temples, churches, synagogues, royal estates, vibrant markets, cultural performances and artisan workshops.
A highlight for you will be St. Thomas Church in Palayoor, India's oldest Christian church, reputedly established by St. Thomas the Apostle in 52 AD. With expert guides, inclusive tickets, and seamless transport, this experience promises a deep dive into history and cultural marvels where every moment brims with enrichment.
Take a Discovery-filled Boat Tour
A serene one-hour journey along the Periyar River on a traditional vanji or rice boat, as you cruise the lagoons and backwater canals that mingle with the sea, will give you more glimpses of this beautiful, untainted land. Watch life unfold on the banks — children playing, women chatting as they go about their daily chores and fishermen casting their nets.
Eagles swoop to catch fish, kingfishers dart and the distant ferry rhythmically moves along. This area is part of the wetlands and you will find an abundance of both migratory and non-migratory birds like darters, Brahmani kites and frogmouths here.
Lodging
Enjoy the Serenity of this Riverside Haven
Cranganor is where comfort meets breathtaking views of the Periyar River, with 150 meters of riverfront at your doorstep. The charming Château offers seven uniquely themed, river-facing rooms, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with elegant collonaded verandas, all inspired by the rich Indo-Dutch heritage of Kerala.
Choose from three cosy river meadow rooms, two poolside rooms, and two stunning river panorama rooms. Take a dip in the infinity-edge swimming pool with its river views, perfect for watching sunsets from the gardens lounging in a hammock or pampering yourself at the Ayurvedic spa, offering the finest rejuvenation and relaxation therapies.
Dining
Indulge in Kerala’s Culinary Heritage
At Cranganor’s History Café, you will be spoilt for local Kerala favourites, pan-Indian, and international choices. Enjoy the staff tales of culinary influences from Arabia, China, and Holland, shaping Kerala’s food history for over 3000 years. Close to the sea, the freshest clams, prawns, pearl spot, mullet and snapper are available as catch of the day or to order.
Breakfast is complimentary and you can stroll around the property to see various fruits and spices grown there. The café offers an all-day à la carte menu, with meals made from scratch, and options for curated or festival meals for larger groups.
Meet the People
Cranganor is Rasmi and Vineeth's passion, deeply connected to their souls. In 2009, they decided to quit their jobs and relocate to Kerala. In 2012, they found a beautiful strip of land on the edge of the Periyar River, near weaving villages and historically significant. They moved to Kerala in 2017 with their daughters to realize their dream.
Rasmi’s work in conserving handloom crafts brought her to Chendamangalam in 2011, while Vineeth, an MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur, cherished childhood summers here. Leaving behind nearly three decades of corporate experience, they created this beautiful, sustainable paradise and haven’t looked back since.
Sustainability Story
The staff at this eco-conscious haven is locally sourced and trained in sustainability practices. Guests are encouraged to reduce waste, save water and energy and use eco-friendly amenities. Recycling and composting stations are placed throughout the resort. This boutique property offers a unique farm-to-table experience with locally grown foods. Guests can enjoy fresh, delicious meals, serene riverside views, and beautifully designed eco-friendly spaces. Rasmi and Vineeth have created a paradise where luxury meets responsible travel, making every stay both comfortable and enriching. It’s a perfect blend of sustainable living and top-tier hospitality.
Discover More Immersive Experiences at Cranganor History Café & Riverside Château
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