BOAT RACES OF KERALA

Nehru Cup Snake Boat Race (Alappuzha Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Punnamada) This Boat Race held at the Vembanad lake, east of Alappuzha town. It is the most famous boat race held on the second Saturday of August every year. Boats of all sizes compete in different events. Most prestigious and interesting event is the competition of the "Chundan Vallam". This boat (Chundan Vallam) containes 100 rowers, 4 helmsmen and 25 cheer leaders. The boat is well decorated with colorful umbrellas. Champakulam, Kavalam, Karichal, Jawahar Thayangari, Kallooparamban, Pacha, Pulincunnu, Nedubhagam, Cheruthana, Kandangari and Paippad are the chief competitors for the trophies. Tickets are available at various stalls on the way. Carrying Packed food and an umbrella to the venue will make you very comfortable.

Rajiv Gandhi Trophy Boat Race (Pulinkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race) This boat race is held on two weeks after the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. It is held at Pulinkunnu, 10 km away from the Alleppey town. The boat race is conducted in memory of Late Mr.Rajiv Gandhi, the former Indian Prime Minister.

Payippadu Boat Race : (Payippad Jalotsavam - August/September) Held in memory of the Prathista ceremony of Haripad Subramanya Temple and therefore has a religious significance. Payipad Boat Race is celebrated for three days, commencing from the Onam festival day. Snake boat Processions are taken out on the first two days. The competitive boat-race takes place on the third day.

Champakkulam "Moolam Vallamkali" (July) The traditional annual boat race of Kerala begin in July at Champakulam. This festival is known as ' Moolam Vallamkali' . Moolam signifies a Malayalam asterism (star or Nakshathram), Moolam of the month Mithunam.