KERALA HOUSEBOATS
Kerala Backwaters are one of the unique attractions in Kerala, a chain of canals extending about 1500 kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes. Most of the Kerala backwaters are naturally formed and some of the backwater canals are manmade. Canals are remade for continuous traffic of men and materials. Before the modern transport methods like road and air transport became popular, the main cargo transportation in Kerala was through backwaters by ‘Kettuvalloms’.
The traditional cargoboats are called “KETTUVALLOM” – KETTU means to tie, VALLOM – means boat. So literally translated means boat which are made by wooden planks tied together with coconut ropes and painted with cashew nut oil outside. They are 70 to 100 feet long and 15 to 20 feet wide.
Master craftsmen of these Houseboats of Kerala, is now numbering. Only a few have tremendous knowledge and experience. Without a scale model or drawing, they build these magnificent and beautiful Kettuvalloms. The natural coir fibre once soaked in oil, seal the holes and at the same time yield a little bit on mild impacts saving the boat. The ‘valavara’ the roof of the Kettuvallom is made of split bamboo poles Coir ropes and bamboo mats. The art of roof making is specialty of certain villages in Kerala. You can observe by their deft hands how they make thousands of knots with ropes to make the skeleton and the various decorations.
Backwaters in Kerala form an inherent part of life in Kerala. Newspapers, mail and milk are delivered by boats, members of political party with red flags and Christian missionaries spreading the words of God share the same boats along with fully made up brides and wedding parties.Tour India, a specialist tour operator started with a team of young people about 40 years ago has pioneered the development of backwater tourism by introducing the first Kettuvallam Houseboat (Rice Boat) for comfortable cruising in the canals. This was started in 1991 after several trials and experiments.
These kerala Houseboats are converted ‘kettuvalloms’. They are designed for comfortable cruising and overnight stay.
These kerala Houseboats are known for their unique design use of local and eco-friendly materials like bamboo poles, coconut finer ropes, bamboo mats, carpets etc.These kerala Houseboats invite you to enjoy in a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of backwaters.With their languid grace and quaint design they add another dimension to your cruise in the shimmering blue waters.These kerala Houseboats have single room, double room, triple room configuration with, sun deck and private balcony with comfortable chairs.
The rooms are fully furnished with attached bathrooms with shower, wash basin and flushing WC with tiled floor.
Each Kerala Houseboat has a fully equipped kitchen and an experienced cook to prepare authentic Kerala cuisine with sea food specialties and fresh vegetables. An array of Kerala delicacies are spread for you on a banana leaf and your escort will show you how to eat with fingers.
Here man and nature strike up a balance of co-existing harmoniously beyond the temptations of modernization.
The guest can go for short expedition on cycle or the modified bullock carts which are available to take you higher and higher to enjoy the beauty of village scenarios.
Houseboat cruising includes the visit to the villages, schools, temples, churches, markets, beaches, coir making, tea shops, paddy fields.
Kerala backwater tour is one of the most preferred tour packages for Kerala tours and travel.
Kerala backwaters are one of the unique attractions in Kerala, a chain of canals extending about 1500 kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes. Most of the Kerala backwaters are naturally formed and some of the backwater canals are manmade. Canals are remade for continuous traffic of men and materials. Before the modern transport methods like road and air transport became popular, the main cargo transportation in Kerala was through backwaters by ‘Kettuvalloms’.
Prime Destination of Backwater Tour Kerala
Kollam Backwaters
Ashtamudi Backwaters
Munrothuruthu Backwaters
Alumkadavu Backwaters
Thottappally Backwaters
Mannar Backwaters
Alleppey Backwaters
Vembanad Backwaters
Kuttanad Backwaters
Kumarakom Backwaters
Fort Kochi ( Cochin) Backwaters