Dear Friends,
When Elizabeth Baker and Laurie built Mitraniketan in Vagamon in 1963, they envisioned not a monument, but a home of friends, a place where simplicity, service, and learning would live side by side. Over the years, Dr. Sina and Alina Cattani carried this spirit forward with quiet devotion, shaping Mitraniketan not only as Laurie’s first architectural project in Kerala but also as a living home of care and friendship.
For decades, they lived and worked here in healing, teaching, and listening and transforming this home in the hills into a space where architecture met compassion, and where every visitor became part of the circle. Their presence continues to guide us in every stone and silence, in every patient cared for, and in every friend who comes seeking meaning here.
In the summer of 2023, we began what we call the Laurie Baker Heritage Walk, opened our door to share what Laurie created, and what we continue to nurture here. an experience of simplicity, community, and the quiet beauty of usefulness.
This year, from 7th to 9th November 2025, we welcome another small group, a circle of about fifteen people to stay with us at the Mitraniketan Residence. During these days, we walk through the spaces Laurie shaped, listen to the stories that live in the walls, and share the meals and silences that form the rhythm of this place.
The registration is modest: ₹4000 for general participants, and ₹3400 for students,(all inclusive of food and accomodation) and those registered will be contacted personally from Mitraniketan.
Click here to Register : Registration Link
We often feel that every time someone new comes here with openness, the place breathes a little deeper. It is not about architecture alone, it is about the way one lives with what one builds, and builds with what one lives for.
Each Baker Walk is a gentle way of keeping this spirit alive. To learn from the walls, the people, and the peace that still dwell here.
And when the days end, what often remains are not just memories of Laurie’s spaces but the friendships, reflections, and quiet bonds that continue long after we part.
Warmly,
Mitraniketan.
Accomodation.
Mitraniketan Residence offers residential, room – dormitory style shared accommodation for guests, visitors, and program participants, with common toilets and bathrooms. The residence is simple and functional.
Food: Basic, simple, and home cooked
Itinerary.
Venue: Mitraniketan, Vazhikkadav, Vagamon, Kottayam, Kerala
Event Timing: 7th Nov 6:00 pm – 9th Nov 4:00 pm 2025
Schedule:
Friday.
Doors open, make yourself at home at Mitraniketan. (6.00 pm)
Post Dinner : shared conversations as the house settles
Saturday.
Walk towards the viewpoint (optional)
Morning – explore the hospital. (10.am)
Post-lunch – explore the quarters (residence)
Evening walk towards the monastery,
Post Dinner – screening
Sunday
Morning walk (optional).
Visit to the Male Ward, Isolation Ward (the Barn), and Club Building,
Post-lunch gathering for the closing session (2.00 pm)
Location Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/34FuxvStYfC8gmee9
Contact us at: or mitraniketanvagamon@gmail.com
Participants of first Laurie Baker Heritage Walk Conducted by Mitraniketan on 12th to 14th May 2023