Boat races are synonymous with Kerala’s identity and Champakkulam is a name that resonates loudly across God's Own Country. It is the oldest Snake Boat Race in the State and kicks off the boat race season annually. The Pampa River plays host to this race held in Champakkulam, a village in Alappuzha district. Held normally in June or July, the crowds it draws are enormous. Massive boats splitting the waters apart as ancient boat songs are hummed make for an exhilarating experience. This is the event that kicks off the boat racing frenzy which takes over the State for the next few months.
Originally, the boat race was called Champakkulam Moolam Vallam Kali. Presently, the race is organized on the Malayalam month midhunam on moolam day. Presently the race is organized by Champakulam boat race society headed by district collector. Different categories of boats are used for taking part in this boat race. Some of the most known boat categories are chundan (snake boat), veppu, iruttu kuthi, churulan. Among all these categories, chundan (snake boat) are found most decorated and grab spectators’ attention.
It is said that the Raja of Chempakasseri, Pooradam Thirunal Devanarayanan, constructed a temple at Ambalappuzha as recommended by the regal astrologers, but just before the consecration of the deity (Lord Krishna) he was informed that the idol was not auspicious. The king arranged an idol and the day when the idol was consecrated started the convention of Champakulam Boat Race Alappuzha.
Now this boat race is celebrated with great enthusiasm and grandeur. People from all Conners of Kerala come to watch this spectacular event. Venturous spirited spectators mostly confirm a better watching point by climbing the nearby trees around the river.
A sum total of 19 boats are mostly found offering participation under various categories for the race. The event also includes exotic water floats, boats ornamented with colorful parasols, and several performing artists. Punnamada Resort can offer wonderful and comfortable arrangement for watching this boat race as a part of backwater tour.
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