Onam 2025: Must-visit places to watch legendary snake boat races in Kerala
Kerala comes alive during its iconic harvest festival, Onam. The occasion, marking the return of Demon King Mahabali, is not limited to observing prayers and rituals, making pookalam, relishing sadhya and entertaining people with traditional performances such as pulikali and thiruvathirakali. During this festival, people witness one of the most entertaining traditional sports activities – the snake boat race or Vallam Kali. Read to know about the best places to witness Vallam Kali in Kerala.
New Delhi: Kerala, the God's own country, comes alive during its iconic harvest festival, Onam. The occasion, marking the return of Demon King Mahabali, is not limited to observing prayers and rituals, making pookalam, relishing sadhya and entertaining people with traditional performances such as tiger dance or pulikali and thiruvathirakali. During this festival, people witness one of the most entertaining traditional sports activities – the boat race or Vallam Kali. This is the reason, it is the apt time to visit this state to experience the cultural vibe first-hand.
The tranquil backwaters and lakes transform into racing tracks with the pleasant sound of rhythmic splashes created by oars. The atmosphere echoes with drumbeats, chants, and cheering crowds. These serpent-like boats make way through the water with great speed, rowed by hundreds of men moving in perfect synchronisation. Vallam kali or legendary snake boat races are not only a spectacular sport, but they’re the spiritual legacy and collective faith that binds multiple generations together. Here we will explore two of the biggest boat races held in Kerala during the Onam festival.
Best places to witness Vallam Kali in Kerala
Here are the top places to witness Vallam Kali or snake boat races during Onam in Kerala for the most thrilling cultural experience.
1. Payippad boat race – Alappuzha
This boat race, organised on the beautiful Payippad River, marks the discovery and installation of Lord Subramanya’s idol at the Subramanya Swamy Temple. Considered one of Kerala’s most eagerly awaited events, it features the largest number of participating snake boats.
When: 5–7 September 2025
2. Aranmula Boat Race – Pathanamthitta
Held on River Pampa, this race is deeply connected to the rituals of the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple and is believed to carry divine blessings. The boats here, popular as palliyodams, move rhythmically to the tune of the temple and are larger and taller than the usual snake boats. Around 15 people can stand in the centre of these boats.
When: September 9, 2025
Experiencing these electrifying cultural sports activities is like witnessing Kerala’s faith, devotion and unity. So, do visit any of these spots to enjoy the legendary snake boat race of Kerala during Onam!