These boats are called snake boats, not because of any connection to serpents, but because they are designed to resemble snakes—known locally as chundan vallam by the residents of Kuttanadu region in Kerala state, southern India.

Renowned as Kerala's only traditional war boat, these vessels stretch between 100 and 120 feet and can accommodate up to 100 rowers. Each village maintains its own snake boat, racing them through the region's spiritual rivers and lakes in local competitions that have endured for centuries.

LOCATIONS:

• Alleppey's Punnamda Lake
• Champakkulam River (Changanassery)
• Payippad Lake
• Pampa River

RACING SEASON:

• July to September
• Peak during the August to September "Onam Festival"

TYPES OF RACES:

Champakkulam Moolam Snake Boat Race

The Champakkulam Moolam Boat Race is an auspicious occasion where the idol of the Hindu deity Lord Krishna is transported from the Sree Krishna Temple at Ambalappuzha. According to ancient mythology, those bearing the idol would stop at Champakkulam en route. The following morning, thousands of colorful boats gather to participate in the event and escort the idol to its final destination.

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race

The Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race stands among the most exhilarating competitions, celebrated in honor of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. In 1952, during his visit to Alleppey, he was greeted with this spectacular boat race and presented the inaugural trophy to commemorate the occasion.

Aranmula Snake Boat Race

The Aranmula Snake Boat Race unfolds over two days, featuring the ceremonial journey of a sacred idol to the Aranmula Parthasarthy Temple by snake boat—a tradition rooted in the protection of rival villages. This celebration marks the day when Lord Krishna crossed the sacred river.