Being a Coastal land, Kerala abounds in beautiful backwaters. The spectacular beauty of Kerala's backwaters catches the imagination of the people coming to this part of the world. The backwaters of Kerala are abuzz with economic activities and are lined with traditional villages and greenery all around the place. The natural beauty of Kerala backwaters can be well appreciated through traditional Kerala houseboats.

Traditionally, the houseboats in Kerala are called Kettuvallam, meaning a boat made by tying together pieces of wood. It is amazing to note that not a single nail is used in the construction of a Kettuvallam. Jack wood planks are joined together with coir rope and then coated with black resin made from boiled cashew nut shells. The materials that go into the making of a Kettuvallam are all local and Eco friendly like bamboo poles, bamboo mats, coconut fiber ropes, coir carpets etc.

These boats were used as the mode of transport in the early times from the isolated interior villages to the towns. But with the development in modes of transportation in recent times, these boat services have been laid off. Now, the giant 80-foot long Kettuvallams have been adapted into splendidly furnished houseboats. A Kettuvallam generally has one or two bath attached rooms, deck, kitchenette, an open lounge and a crew comprising two oarsmen and a cook. Traditional lanterns are used as lights in the houseboats.