Snake Boat Race, Kerala
For a few months each year during the monsoon season in Kerala, the state will come alive with color with snake boat races across the region. Locally known as chundan vallams, snake boats are actually long traditional canoe style boats that are used by the people of Kuttanadu, a region in the beautiful state of Kerala in south India.
Basically the traditional war boats of the state, snake boats can measure up to 120 feet long and can hold about 100 rowers. Each village in the region is said to have its own snake boat that they are proud of, and each year, villagers will come together and race their respective boats along the rivers and lakes in Kerala.
A snake boat race is usually held from the months of July to September, where the exact dates would vary each year depending upon the phase of the moon. However, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is exempted from such changes, as it is always held on the second Saturday of August.
Another popular snake boat race in Kerala is the Aranmula Boat Race, which is the highlight of the Onam Festival that takes place sometime between August and September through 10 days of celebration. Many other boat races are also held in Kottayam, Champakkulam, and Payippad. For a chance to see this colorful event, book Kerala holiday packages here at La Vacanza Travel.