Ketuvallam means “boat with knots” in Malayalam. The entire structure is held together by coir ropes tied into knots. These houseboats are generally 67 to 80 feet long and are made using the time-tested ancient technique where not a single iron nail is used. Skilled carpenters use the local “anjili” or jack wood to build the hull using coir ropes to bind the planks together. Stuffed with coconut fibers in-between, this framework is then layered with a caustic black resin extracted from boiled cashew kernels to hold it in place. Though outwardly their appearance is rustic, these behemoth structures can withstand a weight of about 30 tons - and if well-maintained, can last for generations. Wood, woven palm and bamboo form the roofing and enclosures for single or multiple bedrooms while some also feature a sundeck for angling, a shady veranda or a lounge area and fully air-conditioned rooms. The arch-shaped windows look out to an uninterrupted scenic view. The small kitchenette and an outboard or inboard motor are built at the back. Each houseboat is accompanied by a cook and two oarsmen. The meals cooked in-house usually comprise the local fresh karimeen (pearl spot fish), rice, prawn curry or spiced fried fish with local side-dishes of pappadam and Kerala payasam desserts.
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