myalleppey.com

Grand Boat Races &Festivals in Alleppey

Experience the thunderous rhythm of Kerala's iconic snake boat races and vibrant temple pageantry on the backwaters.

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4.8

2,000+ reviews

2000+Happy Guests
4.8Google Rating
3+Years Running

Culture · Snake Boat Races & Traditions

Curated Events & Festivals

Hand-picked recommendations vetted for service quality, comfort, and authenticity.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR)
World Famous📍 Punnamada Lake, Alleppey

The Olympics of Backwater Racing

Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR)

Witness 100-foot-long Chundan Vallams (Snake Boats) powered by 100+ synchronized oarsmen cutting across Punnamada Lake to the rhythm of vanchipattu chants.

  • Over 100 oarsmen per snake boat
  • Vibrant musical rowing chants (Vanchipattu)
  • VIP pavilion & boat viewing passes available
  • Prime backwater atmosphere & cultural spectacle

Price Range

August / September annually

NTBR Tickets & Stays
Champakulam Moolam Boat Race
Heritage Race📍 Champakulam River, Alleppey

The Oldest Snake Boat Race in Kerala

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race

Celebrated on the holy Pampa River in Champakulam with traditional pageantry, decorated water floats, and intense traditional snake boat competition.

  • Monsoon festival kickoff event
  • Rich history dating back centuries
  • Colourful ceremonial water procession
  • Intimate village viewing along the banks

Price Range

June / July (Mid-Monsoon)

Inquire Experience
Mullakkal Chirappu & Temple Festival
Cultural Fiesta📍 Mullakkal Street, Alleppey

11-Day Grand Winter Carnival

Mullakkal Chirappu & Temple Festival

Alleppey town transforms into a festival wonderland with illuminated streets, temple elephant processions, Kathakali dances, and night bazaars.

  • Traditional percussion ensembles (Chenda Melam)
  • Spectacular illuminated shopping streets
  • Classical Kerala dance performances
  • Festive culinary pop-ups and sweets

Price Range

December annually

Plan Trip

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held?

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race takes place annually on the second Saturday of August on Punnamada Lake, Alleppey.

Can I watch the snake boat races from a houseboat?

During race hours, open lake boat movement is regulated for safety. However, premium stationary houseboats and private pavilion seating with prime racecourse views can be arranged with our team.

Need personalized recommendations?

Our local Alleppey concierges are available 7 days a week to help curate your entire itinerary.

Reviews

Loved by our guests.

4.9

500+ Google reviews

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98%

would recommend us

P

Priya Nair

2 weeks ago

Absolutely magical experience! The houseboat was spotless, the food was authentic Kerala cuisine, and the crew was so warm. Watching the sunset over Vembanad Lake was unforgettable.

R

Rahul Menon

a month ago

Booked directly through MyAlleppey and saved a lot compared to the portals. Premium boat, AC bedrooms, and the chef made fresh fish curry on board. Highly recommend.

S

Sarah Thomas

3 weeks ago

Our family had the best time. The kids loved the kayaking and the open sundeck. Everything was well organised from check-in to check-out. Will come back for sure.

A

Arjun Kapoor

2 months ago

Beautiful backwaters and great hospitality. The morning cruise was so peaceful. Only wish we had booked two nights instead of one!

M

Meera Iyer

a week ago

Honeymoon trip and it exceeded every expectation. Private, romantic, and the staff gave us space. The sunset views alone are worth every rupee.

D

David Wilson

a month ago

Travelled from the UK and this was the highlight of our Kerala trip. Seamless booking, no hidden charges, and a genuinely authentic backwater experience.