Monument – Kerala Houseboat, Kerala

“The southern Indian state of Kerala is home to some of the most flamboyant houseboats in the world. The houseboats of Kerala are used for navigating the area’s lush backwaters and lagoons, offering tranquil journeys through otherwise unreachable remote and historic sites.

Traditionally known as Kettuvallams in Kerala, the houseboats were first built around 3000 BCE in southwestern India. These boats, used to transport merchandise such as rice, spices, and passengers, had an average length of 100 ft. The immense scale of the boats allowed them to transport vast quantities of goods for long distances.

The houseboats of Kerela are the modified versions of what was earlier known as Kettuvallams. ‘Kettu’ means ‘tie’ and ‘vallam’ means ‘country boat’. The traditional boats were made using wooden planks tied together by coir ropes. Not a single nail was used in the construction. Anjali wood was used for its construction, and palm leaves were thatched to form the roof. Varnish made of cashew nut oil was used to coat the boats.

With the advent of urbanization and advancement in modern technology, traders began to prefer efficiency and speed over the elegant charm of the Kettuvallams. These boats were ultimately overtaken by trains and motor vehicles.”

Photo Courtesy –  www.keralahouseboat.in