A 400-year-old story, and you're part of it
Built on a quiet hill, wrapped in the green sprawl of a 15-acre rubber estate, Kuruvunakunnel Tharavadu is a living relic. Tucked away in Edamattom village near Pala, this 400-year-old ancestral house holds the soul of Kerala’s past within its walls. Every corner speaks of a lineage that has endured, adapted, and stayed rooted through centuries. Founded in the late 18th century by Kochu Thomman Valliappan and Thresiamma Valliamma on land bought from a Nair family, the family’s roots trace directly to the Arakkal royal lineage, one of the most prominent names in Kerala’s history. The Kuruvunakunnel ancestors were early agriculturalists who ventured deep into the Western Ghats, cultivating pepper long before the Portuguese ever arrived. This makes it Raahghar’s oldest home, still lived in by its direct descendants. The home that stands today is a testimony to generations of care, continuity, and pride.
On arrival, guests are greeted with sloping tiled roofs, pillared verandahs, and red oxide floors that have weathered time with grace. The architecture of the home is the real showstopper. It intricately combines Kerala tradition with Portuguese influence. Wood-paneled ceilings, hidden cellars, and carved doorways whisper stories from a different century. At the center, a quiet library sits like the heart of the home.
Louis, the host, knows this land and its legacy like the back of his hand. He has worked in tech, hotels, and farms, but here, he is the storyteller. His wife, Clary, serves unforgettable Kerala Christian meals, cooked fresh from the estate’s produce. Their children, Mary and Mathew, add laughter and warmth to every stay. When you stay in Kuruvunakunnel Tharavadu, you come for the heritage. You stay for the people. And you leave with a story of your own.
.svg)
At Kuruvinakunnel Tharavadu, each room is thoughtfully designed to offer both comfort and a touch of heritage. The family rooms come with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, sound proof windows and serene garden views, providing a perfect retreat in the heart of Kottayam.
Grandma’s abode featuring twin beds is adorned with vintage family heirlooms, this room captures the essence of traditional Kerala living while providing modern comforts. The red oxide flooring, paired with antique wooden furnishings, adds to its rustic charm.
Garden View
1 room
2 + 1
.svg)
248 sq ft
Grandpa’s Adobe brings a unique blend of history and comfort, reflecting the family's deep cultural roots.This spacious room features a double bed and an additional futon bed, making it perfect for families. This room features the same red oxide flooring and antique furniture.
Garden View
1 room
2 + 1
355 sq ft
Price Description: The price is for double occupancy and includes all taxes and accommodation with the meals mentioned below.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Extra Note: Extra meals cost Rs. 700 per person per meal. Driver’s accommodation is not available at the property.
Third Person/Child: Third Person: Rs 2200 (above 9 years), Child price: No charge for children below 10 years.
Raahghar Payment Terms: Reservation is confirmed with an advance payment of 50% of the total amount at the time of booking. The balance payment is to be made 7 days prior to check-in.
Cancellation Policy (Indian Passport Holders Only):
In case of a cancellation due to any unforeseen circumstance a credit note will be issued by the property to the guest for the amount paid till date.
The credit note will be valid for use within one year from the period of booking. The guest can redeem the credit note against the amount of any future booking within a year and pay the balance if any as per the rates applicable on that date. This credit note is also transferable and can be used by the guest/transferee only once within the stipulated date.
Raahghar would keep your credit card information secured with us and it won't be charged unless needed.
Cochin International Airport is 2.5 hrs away (77 Kms)
Kottayam is the nearest main railway station, 1 hr away (33 Kms). Ettumanoor railway station is the nearest with fewer trains, 45 mins away (24 Kms).
With well connected road networks, Pala is the nearest town 15 - 20 mins away. 2.5 hrs drive from Kochi (72 Kms).
This 400 year old heritage structure, one of the oldest of its kind, remains intact in the traditional Kerala Roman Catholic style and is adorned with antiques dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
The Kuruvinakunnel Tharavadu uses solar power for water heaters and uses only boiled well-water for drinking. It uses glass bottles to offer the boiled water to guests, so as to avoid use of plastic.
The organic farm has a biogas plant, which converts the kitchen waste to gas and manure.
Our host Louis’s uncle was a former president of the congress party & later on formed the Kerala congress along with its other founding members.
The patriarchs of the Kuruvinakunnel family, revered for their wisdom and leadership, played key roles in local church and governance, while also supporting artisans and preserving Kerala Roman Catholic traditions and cultural practices.
Will be displayed soon.
