Experimental investigations are carried out to establish the thermal and emission characteristics of a CAN combustor. Temperature and emission levels at the combustor exit are measured for different swirler vane angles and air fuel ratios (AFR). Swirler vane angle is varied from 15° to 60° in steps of 15°. AFR is varied in the range of 41–51. Experimental analysis is carried out using methane as fuel. Measured temperature variation at combustor outlet indicates that the hot product of combustor flows near the liner wall. Gradient of temperature near the wall decreases as the swirler vane angle (and corresponding swirl number) is increased. The peak temperature reduces at higher value of AFR. Emission level of carbon monoxide decreases with increase in AFR and swirler vane orientation. A higher level of NOX emission is observed for AFR of 45. This is due to change in shape and strength of the recirculation region in the primary zone of the combustor.