Kerala is gifted with stunning backwaters. Visitors worldwide travel here in search of a tranquil getaway close to its peaceful waters. Many people choose to take a calm boat trip through it. However, the classic land boat races are where the real action happens.
Vallam kali, which people in Kerala call the event in their own language, is a part of their culture. The exciting race brings the audience’s enthusiasm to a new high. 50 to 100 paddlers perfectly coordinate their movements to the music of Vanchipattu (boat songs).
A breathtaking sight is watching the boats race to the finish line through the rushing water to the sound of cheering spectators on the banks. To provide tourists with this unique experience during the boat racing season, many travel companies provide Kerala tours.
The following are Kerala’s most popular boat races:
Many boat races take place on land. The majority of these take place during Kerala’s harvest festival, Onam. Each occasion is beautiful in its own right and is linked to a real or imagined occasion. Though all boat races are thrilling, some are more popular than others and draw large audiences. Travel agencies offer Kerala trips at this time since a lot of people come from far-off places to experience the thrill.
In the nation, some of the most famous boat races are:
1. Champakulam Boat Race
Boat races are vital to Kerala’s identity, and God’s Own Country is alive with the sound of Champakkulam. A boat racing season opens each year with the Snake Boat Competition, the state’s oldest race of its kind. This event takes place in Champakkulam, a small village in the Alappuzha district on the Pampa River.
Large crowds attend the event, which is typically held in June or July. A thrilling sensation is provided by the large boats that divide the waters while humming traditional boat songs. The occasion sparks the boat racing craze that sweeps the State for the following several months.
- About the Race: This is one of Kerala’s oldest boat races, dating back to 1545, held on the Pamba River at Champakulam. It marks the start of Kerala’s boat race season.
- Best Time to Attend: Held annually in June or early July, aligning with the Moolam day in the Malayalam calendar.
- Tips for Visitors: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the river. Local boats and houseboats offer a closer view but book in advance, as it gets crowded.
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2. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race
One of Kerala’s most prestigious snake boat races is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. To the rhythm of classic boat songs, crowds of people come to witness approximately 100-foot-long boats race against one another. The starting line for the race is at Punnamada Lake, where competitors assemble to compete.
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s visit in 1952 is the origin of the name of this water event. Beautiful water floats and ceremonial water processions fill the area at this time. The waterways are under the hands of the skilled oarsmen who put on a display that one can never forget, from the enormous chundan valloms (snake boats) to modest village rafts.
- Essence: A highly popular event on Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, it’s named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and draws large crowds, both locals and tourists.
- Timing: Annually on the second Saturday of August.
- Visitor Tips: Secure tickets early for the best seats in the gallery. Watching from a houseboat is a unique experience but requires advance booking. Expect large crowds, so plan transport accordingly.
3. Aranmula Boat Race
The oldest and most prestigious boat race in Kerala is called the Aranmula Uthrittathi Vallamkali, or Aranmula Boat Race. This event is on the day of the Uthrittathi asterism during the month of Chingam in Malayalam. This event is renowned for its splendor and its extraordinary narrative.
In and of itself, the snake boat race is a sacrifice made to Lord Krishna at the Sree Parthasarathy Temple. Palliyodams, or snake boats, are the type utilized in this event. Lord Krishna, the temple’s main deity, is credited with coming up with the design. The village’s name, Aranmula, or Six Bamboos, comes from the legend that he arrived on these shores on a raft composed of six bamboos.
- Significance: Held on the Pamba River during the Onam festival, this is more than a race; it’s a spiritual event with boats moving in unison to traditional songs.
- Best Time: Takes place during the Onam season (August-September).
- Travel Tips: The race has a strong cultural and religious aspect, so be respectful of the traditions. Arrive early to soak in the ambiance and observe the boats adorned with colorful umbrellas.
4. Payippad Boat Race
Another breathtaking boat race in Kerala, the Jalotsavom or Payippad Boat Race, is conducted annually in the village of Payippad in the Alappuzha district. Annually, this three-day event occurs during the Onam festival, which typically occurs in August or September. Every year, this boat race is held to honor the installation of the Lord Subramanian statue at the Haripad Subramanya Temple.
After the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, only the Payippad Boat Race features the biggest participation of snake boats. It is also the only boat race to be contested continuously over three days. The extremely difficult snake boat race starts on the contest’s last day. Devotees from around Kerala swarm to this location to participate in the celebrations and witness the thrilling race.
- Highlight: Known for its three-day celebration, the race honors the installation of Lord Subramanya’s idol at the Haripad Temple. Boats race in traditional styles, making this a lively event.
- When to Visit: Held in August or September, coinciding with the Onam festival.
- Visitor Advice: This race is best enjoyed as part of the broader Onam celebrations. Bring water and a hat to stay cool under the sun, as viewing areas can be crowded and sunny.
Read also: South India in October: Best Tourist Destinations
5. Kumarakom Boat Race
Sree Narayana Jayanthi Vallam Kali, also known as the Kumarakom Boat Race, is one of the well-known boat races in Kerala held on the calm waters of Vembanad Lake each year during the Onam festival. The boat race commemorates Sri Narayana Guru’s visit to Kumarakom in 1903 CE to dedicate Sri Subrahmanya Swami’s idol at the Kumara Mangalam Temple.
Prior to the start of the boat race, there is a great procession of boats bearing a picture of Sri Narayana Guru from the Kumara Mangalam Temple to Kottathodu, the boat race’s location. Several hundred rowers compete in this race in a variety of boats, including the Veppu, Churulan, Iruttukuthi, and Chundan.
- Essence: This race takes place in the scenic Kumarakom backwaters and is a relatively smaller, more intimate event, giving it a peaceful, local vibe.
- Timing: Generally held around mid-August during Onam.
- Tips for Travelers: Consider staying in a nearby backwater resort to enjoy the race and relax in the natural beauty of Kumarakom. Local homestays can provide an authentic experience.
6. The Kallada Boat Race
The Kallada Jalolsavam, conducted on the River Kallada near Munroe Thuruthu following the 28th day of Onam, is another well-known Vallam Kali or snake boat race. The Kallada river’s banks are lined with dense coconut palms, giving Munroe Island a lovely appearance that draws many visitors. In addition to Iruttukuthi and Veppam boats, Snake boats are also included in the event.
The Kallada Jalolsavam is held annually across the river’s straight section known as Nettayam, which is close to West Kallada and Munro Thuruth. Because of Munroe Island’s attractiveness, people are more drawn to watch boat racing. The victors will be awarded a trophy as well as Rs. 1 lakh in cash.
- Significance: Held on the Kallada River near Kollam, this is among the most thrilling races, with fierce competition and high energy among participants.
- When to Attend: Usually in September, about 28 days after Onam.
- Travel Tips: Arrive early to find a good spot along the riverbanks or join locals in rented boats for a closer look. Engage with local guides to understand the history and rules of the race.
7. President’s Trophy Snake Boat Race
On Ashtamudi Lake in the Kollam District of Kerala, one of the renowned boat races commemorating Kerala Piravi (the founding of Kerala State) is conducted every November. Hundreds of people watch as the rowers drive the boat in unison to the fast-paced Vanchipattus rhythm along the Ashtamudi lake raceway.
The 1250-meter race course begins at a water column next to Thevally Palace and concludes at the houseboat port. The races are divided into five categories: two classes for the Veppu Vallams, one for the Iruttukuthy Vallams, and one for the snake boat or Chundan Vallams. Along with a gold-plated trophy, the victors will also receive a monetary reward of Rs. 10 lakhs.
- About the Event: This race, held on Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam, is named after the Indian President, with snake boats (chundan vallams) competing in a grand display of unity and sportsmanship.
- Best Time: Celebrated annually on November 1st, Kerala Piravi (Kerala Formation Day).
- Advice for Visitors: Stay at one of Kollam’s houseboats or lakeside resorts for easy access to the race. Expect ceremonies and festive events, so consider an overnight stay to enjoy the full experience.
How Do I Get to the Boat Race Places?
You may get to the locations of Kerala’s snake boat races using a variety of ways of transportation. However, you may find a thorough guide that may be helpful here. 85 kilometers distant from Kochi is the closest airport to Alappuzha. However, prepaid taxis are accessible there 24 hours a day for about Rs. 2500.
Depending on the driver, you could have to pay more throughout the night. Additionally, taxis powered by the Uber and Ola apps are also accessible from there. A railway station is also present in Alappuzha, and it is situated southwest of the town’s center.
The Aluva railway station, which is next to the Aluva Rajiv Gandhi Bus Station, is closest to Kochi Airport. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation, however, offers a large number of buses from Kochi to Alleppey; therefore, one can also choose to take a bus from the airport.
The Bottom Line
If you’re still unsure, don’t waste time and start packing for a vacation to Kerala. It would be best to put seeing the big boat races on your bucket list for this year since it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. God’s own Country must be your next holiday destination if you’re looking for stunning beaches, serene backwaters, exciting boat races, delectable seafood, and cultural history.
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Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are some famous boat races in Kerala?
Some famous boat races in Kerala include the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, and Aranmula Boat Race.
2. When does the Nehru Trophy Boat Race take place?
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held every year in August on Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha.
3. What is unique about the Aranmula Boat Race?
The Aranmula Boat Race is part of the Onam festival celebrations and is more of a ritualistic event than a competition, with participants wearing traditional attire.
4. Where can I watch the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race?
The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race takes place on the Pampa River in Alappuzha, usually in June or July.
5. Why are boat races so important in Kerala?
Boat races are a significant cultural tradition in Kerala, celebrating teamwork, community spirit, and honoring the rivers.
6. What types of boats are used in these races?
The most common boats used are “Chundan Vallams” or snake boats, which are long, narrow boats rowed by teams of up to 100 oarsmen.
7. Which boat race is the oldest in Kerala?
The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is considered the oldest traditional boat race in Kerala.
8. Are there any women’s boat races in Kerala?
Yes, the Women’s Boat Race, known as “Vallamkali”, has gained popularity recently, especially as part of the Kerala Tourism events.
9. Can tourists participate in Kerala’s boat races?
While tourists cannot participate in the races, they can enjoy the events from designated viewing spots or from boats set up for spectators.
10. How can I attend a boat race in Kerala?
You can attend by booking tickets through Kerala Tourism, especially for popular races like the Nehru Trophy, or by contacting local organizers for viewing arrangements.
