The boat races of Kerala are an integral part of Kerala culture. They are one of the main cultural attractions of Kerala and add great charm and color to Kerala culture. Every year numerous boat races are organized and people participate in them in large numbers. The enthusiasm of participants and spectators on this occasion shows the liveliness of keralites towards life and give a message to them to live in harmony with people as well as nature.
The Snake Boats or Chundanvallams can accommodate more than 100 people. It's usually manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and more than 100 oarsmen, who row in synergy to the vibrant rhythm of the vanchipattu (song of the boatman) providing a spectacular sight to its visitors.
Though, boat races are organized everywhere in Kerala, the vast stretches of tranquil backwaters of Kerala are more famous for them. The centuries old Champakulam boat race held every year in the month of July is the first of the season and marks the beginning of a year of festivities.
Some of the most popular boat races in Kerala are
Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The most popular of all the boat races in Kerala is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held at Alappuzha on the festive occasion of Onam. On this occasion, large numbers of snake boats participate and compete for the prestigious Nehru trophy. Cheered and encouraged by thousands of supporters standing on the bank, the event provides a wholesome entertainment to the crowd. The race has also become a popular attraction for the foreign tourists visiting Kerala.
Aranmula Boat Race: The Aranmula Boat Race is a two-day festive event rather than a sports competition. It is held in strict adherence to traditions during the festival of Onam.
Champakulam Moolam Boat Race: The festive season of boat races commences with the event of Champakulam Moolam Boat Race held every year in the first week of July. It is the oldest and one of the most popular snake boat races in Kerala.
Payippad Boat Race: The Payippad Boat race held every year in the month of August or September, is one of the major snake boat races in Kerala. 'Chundans' (large well decorated snake boats) are the major attractions of the Payippad Boat Race.
Other famous boat races in Kerala are Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race, Pulinkunnu, Kumarakom Boat Race and the Indira Gandhi Boat Race in Cochin.
We invite you to Kerala to explore the colorful culture and natural beauty of this wonderland land. The amazing boat races of Kerala provide an unforgettable entertainment to its spectators and we assure, you too would be enchanted on your Kerala tour.
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