The amazing Kerala boat race - a bewitching experience guaranteed.

Kerala, God’s own Country, is a land of boundless beauty. It is well bestowed with natural beauty that makes it heaven on Earth. Be it a rich culture, various forms of art, literature, history, unique architecture, Ayurveda or traditions that have been passed on for ages, Kerala has it all. Apart from this, Kerala is also famous for its various festivals and their celebrations. Boat race in Kerala attracts a lot of tourists from all over the worlds each year. The splendid and breathtakingly beautiful backwaters serve as venue for the boat races. Every year, participants gather in huge numbers from all over the state to participate in the boat race. It not only provides wonderful entertainment but also brings people closer, integrates them and strengthens the team spirit.

History

The history related to boat races in Kerala dates back over 400 years. Kings of Alleppey (Alappuzha) used to fight battles with neighboring regions in boats along the canals. Then, these kings started getting their boats designed to win wars. This was the beginning of boat races. Today, boat races are a huge event in Kerala and forms an integral part of Kerala attractions.

Famous Boat races

•    The famous Nehru Boat race is held every year on Alleppey's Punnamda Lake.
•    Champakkulam Moolam, the oldest and also the most famous race is held along the river at Champakkulam.
•    Payippad Jalotsavam is organized at Payippad Lake.
•    Aranmula Boat Race is held at River Pampa.
The boat races are generally held between the months of July to September. The exact dates of these races vary depending upon the moon’s phase. The Nehru Trophy Boat race, however, is held each year on the second Saturday of August. These boat races are the main attractions of the Onam festival. Held mostly with temple festivals of Kerala, the boat races also hold a lot of religious importance.

For a few months every year, Kerala is brought to life with brightly colored boats that are decorated elaborately and beautifully. The participation in the boat races is beyond compare and the enthusiasm of participants as well as the audience is worth watching. The captivating music, the traditions, the religious ceremonies and the sense of healthy competition transcends time. It is a completely different world altogether. The experience is magical, beautiful and captivating.

Discover the houseboats in Kerala and get mesmerized

Kerala Backwaters are very appealing just like the name given to the tranquil picturesque network of canals, rivers, lakes and lagoons which run inland in the coastal region of Kerala. If you are bored and need a break from your daily chores and monotonous life, then you should probably head to “the backwaters of Kerala or the houseboats of Kerala”. 

Kerala Houseboats – Did you know what the houseboats in Kerala are called? Well they are called “Kettuvallam” which means knotted boat. The houseboats seem a very exciting choice as they give you a wonderful feeling of living in a house that floats on water. It is a reincarnation of conventional canoe which was used to transport the daily home items from the mainland to the homes of native people. However, to attract more and more tourist to the backwaters, the tourism organization has developed well-furnished houseboats. There are mainly four houseboats – 

1. Kollam Houseboats
2. Bekal Houseboats
3. Kumarakom Houseboats
4. Alappuzha Houseboats

The houseboats have gained impeccable popularity since 2003. The professionals at houseboats are trained to handle the cruises while others are dedicated in delivering unique services. The grandeur of the houseboats leaves the tourists spellbound.

houseboats in Kerala

If asked, I would say that the houseboats in Kerala backwaters offer a sporadic foretaste of an unspoilt corner thereby pouring profits in the bags of tourism industry. The houseboats here are considered a must stay place. The red sunset that drops quickly behind the coconut trees just across the river bed are mesmerizing. I must say that they have the perfect setting of mouthwatering food with perfect ambience and heartening hospitality. The truth is that the backwaters have now-a-days become a reason of their success. There are hundreds and thousands of houseboats, loaded with tourists that chug around the exquisite lagoon, rivers and canals. Few of these are air conditioned too, belching fumes and blaring out music – portraying the charming scenery which is sufficient to attract the tourists. 

Witness the best of Kerala backwaters – 

Believe me friends if you wish to explore something which can bring tranquility and relaxation to your mind, heart and soul, then the houseboat stay in Kerala which floats on the river is definitely worth trying as it is far away from the hustle-bustle of the city crowd and noise. Moreover, the freshly cooked delicacies and tempting food make the experience more pleasurable providing value for money spent. Just get ready to hire a houseboat and make the most of your holidays with your loved ones and family.