The Kettuvallam: History of the Kerala Houseboat & How It's Made

The houseboats drifting through Alleppey's backwaters have a rich heritage. Known as kettuvallam, they began life as cargo boats long before tourism. Here's the story and how they're built.

What Does "Kettuvallam" Mean?

"Kettuvallam" comes from the Malayalam words kettu (tied) and vallam (boat) — literally a "tied boat". The name reflects the traditional construction: planks of wood bound together with coir rope, without nails.

A Trading Past

For centuries, kettuvallams carried rice, spices and goods through Kerala's waterways between villages and ports — the backwaters were the region's highways. As roads developed, the cargo role faded, and from the 1990s the boats were lovingly converted for tourism.

How a Kettuvallam Is Built

• Wood: traditionally "Anjili" (wild jackfruit) planks for the hull.
• Coir rope: coconut-fibre rope ties the planks together.
• Natural coating: cashew-nut oil and resins protect the wood.
• Roof: arched canopy traditionally woven from bamboo and palm leaves.

Modern houseboats keep this traditional look and craft while adding AC bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens for comfort.

Traditional Craft, Modern Comfort

Today's boats blend heritage design with the amenities travellers expect. To experience it, see our traditional houseboat guide and the full Alleppey houseboat range.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kettuvallam?

A kettuvallam is the traditional Kerala houseboat — originally a cargo boat made of wooden planks tied together with coir rope, now converted for backwater tourism.

How were kettuvallams originally used?

They carried rice, spices and goods through Kerala's waterways for centuries before being adapted for houseboat tourism from the 1990s.

Plan the trip with our Kerala Houseboat Guide.

Ready to experience a kettuvallam?

Check availability and book your Alleppey houseboat.