Houseboat is known actually as Kettuvallam. The word is a combination two Malayalam words – Kettu that means tied and Vallam that means a boat.
A houseboat is almost 60 to 70 feet and about 15 feet wide. The boat is constructed using wood which are tied together use ropes made from coconut fibres. A wood called Anjili is used for constructing these sources of entertainment.
Palm leaves and bamboo poles are used for thatching the roof of the Houseboats while Cashew Nut Oil is used for colouring the exteriors of the Kettuvallam. Cashew nut oil safeguards the boat from being destroyed due to water.
In earlier days, these houseboats had been used for transportation purposes by traders as Kerala lacked roads and railways. These boathouses were complete with facilities for sleeping and cooking. There were cases where the boatmen and the family used to stay permanently in these Kettuvallam. The folk songs sung by these boatmen are also famous as they used to be the source of inspiration during long drives.
But the current gen houseboats are modified Kettuvallams. A Modern Houseboat offers all the amenities offered by a decent hotel. A modern houseboat comes with cosy living rooms, completely furnished bedrooms, kitchen, dining area, modern toilets and even a balcony at times. These are powered by diesel engines, while the power requirements are satisfied from solar energy.
Some of the aspects of an enthralling houseboat are:-
A glide in the Kettuvallom via the charming backwaters of Alleppey will definitely be a amazing experience. Palm fringed narrow canals that wind via the vast paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets offer a panoramic sight which will remain in your heart forever.
Kerala festivals
Palm leaves and bamboo poles are used for thatching the roof of the Houseboats while Cashew Nut Oil is used for colouring the exteriors of the Kettuvallam. Cashew nut oil safeguards the boat from being destroyed due to water.
In earlier days, these houseboats had been used for transportation purposes by traders as Kerala lacked roads and railways. These boathouses were complete with facilities for sleeping and cooking. There were cases where the boatmen and the family used to stay permanently in these Kettuvallam. The folk songs sung by these boatmen are also famous as they used to be the source of inspiration during long drives.
But the current gen houseboats are modified Kettuvallams. A Modern Houseboat offers all the amenities offered by a decent hotel. A modern houseboat comes with cosy living rooms, completely furnished bedrooms, kitchen, dining area, modern toilets and even a balcony at times. These are powered by diesel engines, while the power requirements are satisfied from solar energy.
Some of the aspects of an enthralling houseboat are:-
- A modern houseboat comes with luxurious furnishing with exquisite flooring, hull and valavara (canopy).
- There will be a sun deck, a well furnished living–cum-dining area and proper bedrooms.
- Houseboat with attached toilets, separate toilets for crew
- Neat and classy kitchen with Proper Fire extinguishers and proper fire proofing
- Kitchen is properly protected from hazards by fireproofing and fire extinguishers.
- An insect-free hygienic store with safe fuel storage facilities
- The guests get a chance to taste the delicious coast cuisine of Kerala that is rich in different fishes and prawns.
A glide in the Kettuvallom via the charming backwaters of Alleppey will definitely be a amazing experience. Palm fringed narrow canals that wind via the vast paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets offer a panoramic sight which will remain in your heart forever.
Kerala festivals
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