Snake Boat or The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alappuzha, Kerala - India

[Nishahameetha]

* It is a popular Vallam Kali held in the Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha, Kerala, India.

* Vallam Kali or Vallamkali literally means boat play/game, but can be translated to boat race in English.

* The most popular event of the race is the competition of Chundan Vallams (snake boats). Hence the race is also known as Snake Boat Race in English.

* Other types boats which participate in various events of the race are Churulan Vallam, Iruttukuthy Vallam, Odi Vallam, Veppu Vallam (Vaipu Vallam), Vadakkanody Vallam and Kochu Vallam.

* The race conducted on the second Saturday of August every year is a major tourist attraction.

* The 100–120 foot long canoes made of a wood locally called "Aanjili thadi" carrying 90- 110 rowers which moves like a snake through the channels, is an eye catching sight for any tourist.

* The Chundan Vallam also has the record as "the biggest water vessel used for sports purpose" .

* Karichal, Kallooparamban, Chambakulam, Nadubhagom, Paayipaadu, Kaavalam, Alapaatu, Aanari, Cheruthana, Aayaparambu, St. George, Jawahar Thaayankari, Vallamkulangara etc are the name of popular snake boats who participate in the Chundan Vallam category.

* Famous Karichal Chundan winning the Nehrutrophy Boat Race in 14 times.

Picture: Ayashok Photography@Flickr

- Thanks to
Know Your Destination