Quick Jumplinks to Navigate
Kerala is an irresistible paradise that cannot be missed, a place of tranquillity, with pristine beaches, serene backwaters, exotic spice plantations and restorative Ayurveda. It is also widely popular for its most exciting cultural tradition, the boat races called Vallam Kali. The snake boat race in Kerala brings together communities and uplifts the historical continuity of unity and respect. This blog will decode various types of boat races and the heritage significance of the boat race festival in Kerala.
Vallam Kali is a traditional boat racing competition that takes place in different backwaters of Kerala. The snake boat race in Kerala symbolises the rich culture of building long, narrow, and carved kayaks that can carry up to 100 rowers. Have you wondered how these snake boats glide smoothly on the water surface? Well, the local artisans use fish oil, coconut shell, and carbon to keep the wood strong and the boat slippery in the water. Such a thrilling event of boat races in Kerala during Onam symbolises the celebration of the return of King Mahabali.
1. Aranmula Boat Race
Among the top Kerala boat races that take place on the Pampa River in Pathanamthitta is the Aranmula Boat Race. This race is considered to be the oldest and unique, as it represents dedication to Lord Krishna and Arjuna at the nearby Sri Parthasarady Temple in that region. This race has a grand procession and often draws a huge number of tourists as well.
You will be fascinated to hear that the wood used to make these snakeboats comes from a local tree called Anjili, and they built the boats 100 feet long. If you are planning a trip, then look for Kerala tour packages for family, which include this spectacular event to witness.
2. Champakkulam Boat Race
The most prestigious Kerala boat race that happens in the Alappuzha district is the Champakkulam Boat Race. This competition marks the beginning of the season for Vallam Kali and takes place on the Punnappa River. This event is famous for its snake boats with hundreds of rowers gliding the boat through the water in synchronisation with intense speed and high spirit.
If you are planning your Kerala trip package, then you must visit other events that include various cultural programs and traditional performances that add to the excitement.
3. Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Undoubtedly, the most action-packed boat race of all is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. As the name suggests, this boat race was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952 and, since then, has become an integral race that takes place in August every year. This fierce competition includes iconic Chundan Vallams and thrilling performances by the rowers.
This race event popularly showcases its social harmony between all religions, castes, and communities of the Kuttanad region. If you are surfing the Kerala trip package from Mumbai, then do not forget to add this to your itinerary.
4. Payippad Boat Race
This is the most prominent boat race festival in Kerala during Onam is celebrated at the Subramanya Swamy Temple. The atmosphere during the race is intense and vibrant as the traditional local chant fuels the rower’s spirit.
One must visit Haripad town during this time to experience the local customs and unique Vellam Kali traditions. People worship their idol on their way back to Payippad, and then the competition kicks off.
5. Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race
Every year at the River Pamba in Alappuzha, the Uthradam Thirunal Pamba Boat Race happens on the auspicious days of Onam. This event draws major tourist attention, creating a spirited atmosphere. These snake boats are beautifully crafted, 100-foot-long vessels that can hold the capacity of 100 rowers synchronising through the water and chanting traditional songs.
This event first began in 1957 and has now become a must-see, thrilling experience for locals and tourists. This significant race has over 40 boats participating, with various cultural programs and performances taking place, making it one of the most exciting things to do in Kerala.
6. Kottapurram Boat Race
The most-awaited racing event that happens in Thrissur, Kerala, is the Kottapurram Boat Race. This captivating championship has an enthusiastic lineup of snake boats with high-spirited participants paddling with thriving energy and precision to win. This race has been happening for the last 26 years at the auspicious time of Onam.
If you are planning to visit Kerala during this time, then you must catch this boat race. You will be swarmed by the unique blend of traditions, sports, and oneness that people tend to promote at these boat races.
7. Karuvatta Boat Race
The most vibrant boat race to happen during the auspicious Onam celebrations at the Karuvatta in Alappuzha district. You will be fascinated by the structure that is crafted by the local artisans of these snake boats, as their curled ends resemble a cobra’s hood.
Popularly known as the ‘Brother’s Trophy Boat Race,’ this fierce competition was started in 1966. You will witness the lively surroundings and tranquil backwaters of Alleppey with thousands of other locals and tourists.
8. President’s Trophy Boat Race
The most celebrated snake boat race in Kerala is the President’s Trophy Boat Race, which happens around November. At the Ashtamudi lake in Kollam city, this race will show you majestic snake boats and rowers singing high-pitched chants, propelling to hit the finish line.
The track is stretched to 1250 m of water, and the sixteen snake boat competitions will keep you captivated till the end.
Conclusion
The Kerala boat race is a thrill fest and gives a vibrant cultural experience. Each boat race is electrifying and breathtaking to watch. During these events, each boat is owned by one village and its deity. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you cannot experience anywhere else in the world. If you plan to take an exciting Kerala trip package that will make you experience Sadya, Pookkalam, and Vallam Kali, then we at Thrillophilia have endless package options to offer.