Inside the Alappuzha's Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Tradition on the Backwaters
Be prepared to witness the beat of Kerala's vibrant culture—there is no other way better than at the throbbing Nehru Trophy Boat Race! In the Onam festive celebrations each August, Alappuzha's idyllic backwaters get transformed into festive gaiety as the mythical snake boats—Chundan Vallams—are competing in a racing thrall. These are the traditional snake boat races in Kerala backwaters that attract international focus.
At Move On Leisure, boat racing isn’t just a tradition—it’s pure emotion on water. It's a symbol of unity, strength, and power. It was started as a remembrance of India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, but had evolved into a festival of culture which drew tourists from all parts of the globe.
Why is the Boat Race in Kerala unique?
- Mammoth Assembly: Swarms of hundreds of oarsmen clashed oars in synchrony to the beat of drums and chanting, a thudding spectacle.
- Rich Heritage: The festival mixes the religiosity, festive mood, and tradition of Kerala into one.
- World-renowned Backwaters: Punnamada Lake's sparkling waters are the picturesque backdrop.
- Global Magnetism: From travel writers to cultural researchers, all marked calendars on fire to witness this wow event.
How Would You Like to Experience the Race in the Most Wanted Way?
It is here that Move On Leisure steps in. We are engaged in crafting unavoidable holidays for all—from families to individual tourists. For 2025, we have crafted personalized packages which not only provide a bird's eye view of the event but an experience of Kerala culture as well.
VIP & Rooftop Gallery View
Watch each oar stroke, each splash, and each victory.
- Gala Buffet Lunch & Hi-Tea, Snacks, Ice Creams, Soft Drinks Unlimited
- Yes, including! Enjoy Kerala's authentic food and refreshing desserts while following the race.
- Transportation to Venue on Request
- Get dropped and picked hassle-free.
Perfect for Family, Group and Solo Travelers
Want to take your group along with you? Our organisation offers Ladies Only Tour Packages in Kerala and senior citizens tour packages, where safety, comfort, and care at all times are given the highest priority.
What Do Our Special Packages Offer
Move On Leisure is sure that to live in culture is to live in comfort. Our Boat Race in Kerala packages include the following:
- Carefully Crafted Cultural Tours Around Alappuzha
- Add-On: Houseboat Accommodation (optional)
- Experience of Local Arts & Crafts
- Guided Backwater Village Tours
- Onam Festival add-ons (Flower Carpets, Pookalam making, Sadya feast)
Who Should Take This Experience?
1. First-time Kerala Visitors
If you’ve never been to God’s Own Country, this is the best introduction.
2. Culture Lovers
Step into an age-old tradition that’s more than 60 years old.
3. Families & Friends
Looking to travel together? At Move On Leisure, we craft exclusive journeys for women and senior citizens, blending ease, excitement, and care in every itinerary.
4. Photography Enthusiasts
Lighting, action, and cultural displays create one-time photograph opportunities.
How Is Move On Leisure Different from Other Tour Operators?
We are not merely one of Thrissur's leading tour operators—we're experienced creators and storytellers. Move On Leisure feels as at home in Kerala as we do in our own palm tree. Our pros customize every experience individually so that you receive the real flavor of the place.
- Local Guides Who Treat You Like Family
- Packages That You Can Personalize
- Transparency in Cost
- Recommended by Senior Groups, Families, and Women Tourists
What Else Can You Explore Around the Race?
With Move On Leisure, the excitement of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is just your starting point—Alappuzha invites you into a deeper journey through its rich traditions, scenic backwaters, and cultural wonders waiting around every corner: It is the heartland of traditional snake boat races in Kerala backwaters, offering a spectacle you won’t forget.
- Sunset Shikara Boat Cruises
- Village Road Walks Over Paddy Fields
- Coir and Spice Local Bazaars
- Kerala Sadya Activities
- Canoe Safaris Through Secret Backwaters
You can incorporate them into your schedule and enjoy more traveling with Move On Leisure. We make things easy for you.
Is This Trip Suitable for Senior Citizens and Lady Travelers Who Want to Travel Alone?
Yes! Our senior citizen holiday packages are framed in terms of comfort, relaxation, and culture, while our ladies-only vacation packages in Kerala are framed in terms of safety, nurturing, and bonding. You're 60 or traveling alone; you're always safe with us.
Our services are,
- 24x7 On-Trip Assistance
- Female Tour Coordinators for Women-Only Travel
- Wheelchair-Friendly Vehicle (on request)
- First-Aid and Local Health Assistance
Frequently Asked Questions on Kerala's Boat Race
1. Where is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held?
It is held at Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, Kerala, on the second Saturday of August..
2. When do I reach the location?
The best time to reach the venue is early morning to absorb the overall ambiance and acquaint yourself with the VIP gallery.
3. What shall I take along?
Light clothing, hat, sun cream, shades, and camera. The rest we will arrange.
4. Do you book a group tour from Thrissur?
Yes! Departure from Thrissur is also covered in our package. We are one of the Best Tour Operators In Thrissur, and we provide total trip assistance.
Let’s Make It Happen!
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is indeed not a race but a thump of pride and heritage that sounds deep in the heart of Kerala. Move On Leisure doesn't just observe the race—you feel it from the best possible viewing position. Our team helps you experience the legacy of traditional snake boat races in Kerala backwaters with ease, comfort, and unforgettable joy.
From carefully organised ladies-only Kerala tour packages to carefully designed Senior Citizens Tour Packages, and assured support by one of the finest tour operators in Thrissur, we fulfil your boat race dream.
Call Now: +91 8589004806
Limited seats. Early booking advised.
