Alappuzha | The Venice of the East & Snake Boat Race Capital

Alappuzha district is the snake boat race capital of Kerala. With its crisscrossing lakes, canals, rivers and proximity to the Arabian sea, Alappuzha is aptly described as the 'Venice of the East'. So, it's no surprise that water and boats are integral to life and culture in natural paradise.

The network of backwaters - Punnamada Lake, Vembanad Lake and Kayamkulam Lake - rivers - Manimala River, Achankovil River and Pamba River - as well as numerous canals make Alappuzha the ideal venue for snake boat races. Five of Champions Boat League (CBL) races - Nehru Trophy, Karuvatta, Kainakari, Pulinkunnu and Kayamkulam boat races - happen on various water bodies in Alappuzha. Other major events are Champakulam, Neerattupuram, Payippad and Pandanad boat races.

Visit Alappuzha district during the Onam season (Aug-Sept) to experience the thrill of snake boat racing and exceptional facets of Kerala traditions and culture.

Other Venues

Karuvatta

Karuvatta village in Haripad Taluk, Alappuzha, hosts the only Champions Boat League (CBL) race on a canal. Held annually on the Thottappally Spillway, the canal that carries waters from Achankovil and Pamba River to the Arabian Sea.The picturesque village also offers scenic views of paddy fields, coconut lagoons, rivers and backwaters.

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Beypore

The scenic and historic port town of Beypore in Kozhikode district, is the only northern Kerala venue of Champions Boat League (CBL). Renowned for its centuries-old wooden ship (Uru) building prowess, Beypore is an exemplary centre for Responsible Tourism.The boat race is held on the Chaliyar River between the old and new Feroke bridges. The enchanting locale is surrounded by the Arabian Sea, Chaliyar River, Kadalundi River, and Kallayi River. The beach here is the venue of the Beypore Water Festival, one of India's largest water carnivals.

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Kayamkulam

The origin of snake boat race back to Kayamkulam in Alappuzha district. This historic town hosts one of the key competitions in Champions Boat League (CBL) on the Kayamkulam Lake.It's the feud between the Kayamkulam and Chempakassery kingdoms that led to the founding of the chundan vallams (snake boats). These speedsters were used to be war boats.The Kayamkulam is a scenic spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The town also houses several historic monuments.

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Munroe Island

Munroe Thuruth (island) in Kollam district is the venue of the famous Kallada Boat Race. This event is part of Champions Boat League (CBL). The race is held during Onam season (Aug-Sept).The island is composed of small islets and coconut lagoons. Visitors get to enjoy the tranquility of village life, the workings of the traditional coir industry and cycling expeditions through the rustic roads.

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