Archive · 20 Aug 2026
Why Kerala’s 2026 Snake Boat Races Deserve Your Itinerary
Onam is a major celebration in Kerala.
One exciting part of the celebration happens on the water.
Huge boats shaped like snakes race across the backwaters.
Hundreds of people row together to move each boat quickly.
These traditional races are called Vallam Kali.
The 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race will happen on August 22, 2026.
It will take place at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha.
The race is presented as a memorable experience for travellers visiting Kerala.
Kerala’s Onam celebrations include traditional snake boat races known as Vallam Kali.
The races take place on the backwaters of Alappuzha.
Large snake boats are propelled by hundreds of rowers moving together.
The 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race is scheduled for August 22, 2026.
The event will be held at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha.
- Who
- Hundreds of rowers competing in Kerala’s traditional snake boat races.
- What
- The 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race, part of the Vallam Kali tradition.
- When
- August 22, 2026.
- Where
- Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, Kerala.
- Why
- The race is a major cultural experience associated with Onam celebrations.
- Event
- 72nd Nehru Trophy Boat Race
- Date
- August 22, 2026
- Venue
- Punnamada Lake
- Location
- Alappuzha, Kerala
- Traditional name
- Vallam Kali
- Participants
- Hundreds of rowers
- Festival connection
- Onam