Snake Boats (aka: Chundan Vallam) are traditional war boats in Kerala, Southern India.
Going strong since the mid-1300’s when they were used by the Kuttanad Kings in war, the paddled war canoes (snake boats) are 100-140 feet long. Each can feature 64-100 paddlers rowing in rhythm of the vanchipattu (boatman’s song).
Every year there are 4 major snake boat competitions and 15 minor ones.
The Aranmula Snake Boat Race takes place September 18th, 2016 and features Chundan Vallam and Palliyodam snake boats.
The other major competitions/festivals are: Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Champakkulam Moolam and Payippad Jalotsavam.
What: Aranmula Vallamkali
When: Sunday, September 18th, 2016
Where: River Pamba, Aranmula village, Kerala, India
