Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!

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).

Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!

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.

Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!

What:          Aranmula Vallamkali

When:         Sunday, September 18th, 2016

Where:       River Pamba, Aranmula village, Kerala, India

Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!
Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!
Chundan Vallam: the Battling Snake Boats of Kerala!

 

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