Kerala tourism Guide

Champakulam Moolam Vallam Kali marks the beginning of the season for boat races in Kerala. This festival takes place at a serene village called Champakkulam in Alappuzha district in the month of June/July. The carnival starts in the afternoon with boats from nearby areas assembling at the starting point of the race followed by a procession by the participating teams which includes cultural shows. After the carnival boats of different categories like chundan, veppu, iruttu kuthi, churulan line up for the race in their respective categories. Among the categories Chundan or the snake boat race is the main attraction during the final race. Champakulam Moolam Vallam Kali is the largest sporting event and water fiesta in the world where the ultimate test of endurance, speed and skill of the oarsmen is put to test. River Pampa becomes a track of fire when the oarsman sets the pace by striking the still waters of the River. People from far and near including tourists throng the banks of the river from early morning to occupy a place to get the best view of the race. The movement of the boats is so elegant and swift when they move through the river spectators get a chance to see some victories through photo finish.