One of the most recognizable faces of Kerala or God’s Own Country, the snake boat races are perhaps as great an attraction as Kerala’s backwaters. Traditionally held during the time of Onam, the most important festival of Kerala, the snake boat races are, however, nowadays held at more flexible periods. The snake boat races of Kerala are holders of a number of records, including being the largest team sport in the world.
About The Boats:
Manned by four helmsmen, 25 singers and 100-125 oarsmen who row in unison to the fast rhythm of vanchipattu or the song of the boatman, the snake boats of Kerala are, by themselves a major tourist attraction of the region. Known for being one of the oldest water sports in the world, the snake boat races of Kerala have a number of myths and legends attached to their origin.
The boat races held during the months of August – September:
- ATDC Boat Race, Alappuzha,
- Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race, Pulinkunnu
- Neerettupuram Boat Race
- Kumarakom Boat Race
- Karuvatta Boat Race
- Kavanattinkara Boat Race
- Kumarakom Arpookara Vanitha Jalamela
- Kottayam Mahatma Boat Race, Mannar
- Thazhathangadi Boat Race
- Kottayam, Kottapuram Boat Race
- Kodungallur and Kumaranasan Smaraka Jalotsavam, Pallana
- The Indira Gandhi Boat Race is held on the Ernakulam Lake during the Cochin Carnival in the last week of December
