Houseboats of Kerala
|
|
|  The
Kettuvallam is a large floating structure with high load carrying
capacity was a part of Kerala' s culture and heritage over the past
years. The advent of road transport and motorisation of waterways
saw in steep decline in the significance of Kettuvallam as an effective
carrier of bulk cargo.
 Around
six years ago an entrepreneur on the request of tourists remodelled
the traditional Kettuvallam to suite the role of a tourist cruise
boat. This gave an impetus to the resurgence of Kettuvallam and
with further modifications these vessels were transformed into full-fledged
house boats. The Kettuvallam was once an integral member of the
fraternity of Kerala as an efficient cargo carrier. With a redefinition
of its function these boats have carried which for themselves in
the present and future of Kerala as a tourist house boat.
 Kettuvallam
is made entirely of jackwood plants tied (ketu) together with strong
coir rope to form a huge barge (vallam). The boat is constructed
without using a single nail and is coated with a special resin obtained
from boiling cashew kernels. Each a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship,
the 'kettuvallam' lasts, not for years, but for generations.
 Surrounded
by its all-natural decor, the houseboat provides the ideal observation
platform. Not just for underwater life, flora and fauna, but also
for the charming rural lifestyle slipping by in slow motion. Lulled
by the waves into a state of delightful euphoria, you can return
to daily routine, refreshed and rejuvenated.
|
|
 |
|
