Popular Water Sports in Alleppey
Popular Water Sports in (Part II) Alappuzha, a coastal town renowned for its backwaters, is
Every year, the serene backwaters of Kerala erupt into a thunderous celebration of culture, camaraderie, and fierce competition during the Nehru Trophy Boat Race — one of the most iconic and eagerly awaited events in India, and a majorly important Kerala boat festival. Also called the Punnamada Lake boat race, it is held on the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha. High on the list of traditional boat races India, this Chundan Vallam race draws thousands of spectators, both local and international, who get the opportunity to witness the exhilarating spectacle of Chundan Vallams or snake boats slicing through the waters in perfect rhythm.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a traditional vallam kali (boat race) organized every year on the second Saturday of August. The main attraction is the Chundan Vallam, or snake boat, a majestic wooden canoe over 100 feet long, manned by rowers numbering up to 100, each rowing in perfect unison to the beat of Vanchipattu (boat songs). The boats are named such because they look similar to a hooded snake and represent Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
The race is named after Jawaharlal Nehru, who was India’s first Prime Minister. In 1952, during a visit to Alappuzha, Nehru was so captivated by a boat race held in his honor that he jumped into a boat in sheer excitement. Later, he donated a silver trophy, shaped like a snake boat, inscribed with his signature, and thus the Nehru Trophy Boat Race was born. It has been held every year since then, turning into a festival that celebrates Kerala’s community spirit and sporting zeal.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a culturally rich fanfare that spans everything creative from traditional music and folk performances to vibrant processions and rituals. One of the major cultural festivals in Kerala, the event is a reflection of the soul of Kerala’s backwaters. The participating villages treat the race as a matter of pride, with months of training and team-building leading up to race day. The event is a reminder of what the human spirit can achieve with the combination of teamwork, discipline, and tradition.
Each boat is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and can cost lakhs of rupees to build and maintain. They symbolize unity, where rowers often hail from various walks of life but row as one, chanting rhythmically and creating an electrifying atmosphere on the water.
You will be able to view the race best from vantage points like Finishing Point, Punnamada Bridge, houseboats on Punnamada Lake, and designated viewing platforms and floating galleries provided by Kerala Tourism and local organizers.
How to Attend the Boat Race in Kerala
Venue: Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha (also known as Alleppey), Kerala
Date: Second Saturday of August every year
Duration: Approximately one day, from morning until late afternoon
So mark your Alappuzzha events calendar.
How to Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, around 83 km away.
By Train: Alappuzha shares rail connectivity with major cities in Kerala like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Chennai.
By Road: Easily accessible via National Highway 66.
By Boat: You can arrive in style via Kerala’s famous houseboats!
Vallam Kali Alappuzha — Tickets & Viewing
Tickets are available for various categories—from general stands to VIP enclosures. For the best experience, book early and arrive well in advance. Houseboats and canoes can also be rented for close-up views from the water, offering a luxurious and immersive perspective.
Key Highlights of Snake Boat Race Kerala
Main Event: Chundan Vallam race, with up to 20 boats competing.
Supporting Events: Smaller races, cultural performances, and musical programs.
Trophy: The original Nehru Silver Trophy, a symbol of national pride.
Best Time to Visit: Monsoon season in Kerala adds to the dramatic scenery, though it’s wise to carry rain gear
Nearby Attractions: Alappuzha beach, backwater cruises, Kumarakom bird sanctuary.
Where to stay during the boat race in Kerala?
You can stay at private resorts and homestays on the backwaters. Choose properties that specifically advertise views of the race; they often provide guided activities, too.
Cultural Festivals in Kerala — Insider Tips for Visitors
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race condenses into one event Kerala’s heritage, unity, and unmatched artistry. It offers a rare opportunity to witness ancient traditions in action, set against one of the most stunning natural backdrops in the country.
Plan your visit to the Nehru Trophy Boat Race and let Kerala’s backwaters pull you into a timeless rhythm of passion, pride, and powerful paddles.
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