Houseboat tourism is the newly much showcased facet of Kerala tourism. As it has a traditional touch blended with amenities anew, it could win the hearts of tourists, especially foreigners.
The ancient Kerala had the history of water transport as it is abundant with backwaters. The Raja’s regal wooden boats, huge in size, was sown by the muscled- adiyans. Wooden boats at time were the symbol of wealth.
Time gave way to machines. When bridge and roads were constructed across lagoons, houseboats gradually disappeared from scene. Today, the houseboats, known as kettuvallam are back with all the regal comforts of mansions- well-furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, passages, kitchen and balcony. Majority of the houseboats are air-conditioned and powered by engines.