Champakkulam Boat Race - Snake Boats Ripping The Calm Water For A Grand Visual Spectacle

CHAMPAKKULAM BOAT RACE

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ALAPPUZHA

The Champakkulam Boat Race starts off the season of boat races and unleashes a visual splendour as the snake boats slice through the calm waters accompanied by the rhythmic chant of boat songs in the Alappuzha District Of Kerala State of India.

Kerala is one of the best kept secrets of India. A culture in which the heritage of the land is proudly preserved in the hearths and hearts of all the people of the land, a study into the culture of Kerala is a fascinating tale of natural beauty coupled with an ancient heritage. Perhaps no other aspect of the heritage of Kerala exhibits it as much as do the various festivals in Kerala, notable among which is the Champakkulam Boat Race.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is all set to begin on June 26, this year. The festival, which is one of the most-awaited events in the calendar of Kerala, has an origin which dates back to centuries in time. This spectacular snake boat race is held on the River Pampa on the day of the 'moolam', which is followed in accordance to the Malayalam month of Midhunam. The day is considered to be especially sacred as it is the day when the Deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple was installed.

The Champakulam Boat Race is held in accordance to a legend which is strongly adhered to by the people of Kerala. According to the legend, the king of Chempakasseri in Devanarayana, under the influence of instructions, provided to him by the royal priest erected a temple in his kingdom. However, just before the installation, he was informed that the idol was not auspicious. 

To make amends, the king brought the idol of Sree Krishna from the Karikulam temple in Kurichi, which legend claimed was handed over to Arjuna by Lord Krishna himself. It was during this journey that the king made a stop over at Champakulam. The next morning saw thousands of boats assembled at the site in a riot of colors in order to honor the sacred event and to escort the idol home

The banks of the Pampa River gets swarmed by people from far and near, cheering and egging on the oarsmen to a resounding finish. These snake boats ripping through the serene waters and propelled by hundreds of oarsmen splashing and beating their oars about in the waters in unison makes for a grand visual spectacle. Boats such as chundan (snake boat), veppu, iruttu kuthi, churulan and others from nearby regions line up to participate in this spectacular water sport. 

It is this scene which is enacted in this part of the world every year and which is known as the Champakkulam Boat Race.

Nearest Railway Station is Thrissur and it is about 25km.

Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport and it is about 78km.

Alappuzha - It Is Referred To As The Venice Of The East

ALAPPUZHA

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KERALA

Referred to as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha has always enjoyed an important place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, it is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alappuzha beach is a popular picnic spot. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby which is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Another delightful experience while in Alappuzha is a houseboat cruise. The ones you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact reworked version of Kettuvallams of olden times. The original Kettuvallams or rice barges used to carry tons of rice and spices. The Kettuvallam or 'boat with knots' was so called because the entire boat was held together with coir knots only.

Of late, houseboats come with all creature comforts of a good hotel including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. And one can always enjoy uninterrupted views of backwater life while staying in a houseboat.

DTPC Houseboat Pre-paid Counter

For booking houseboats, travelers can make use of the Houseboat Pre-paid Counter 'Trusted Service, Trusted Rates' managed by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC).

Tourist can make advance booking by transferring INR 2500/- to the account of the DTPC and send email to dtpcalpy@yahoo.com. Travellers should check in advance the availability and also the rate of the houseboat. Then only they should deposit the amount in bank. The houseboat rates vary depending on the number of rooms in the houseboat. 

Before transferring the amount, traveller should first contact the Houseboat pre-paid counter

Contact details

Alappuzha - House boat pre-paid counter - +91 477 2238170
DTPC Office: 09400051796, +91 477 2253308 , +91 477 2251796,
DTPC Secretary - 09447483308

The account number of DTPC is A/c 10150100253203, Federal Bank, Mullackal Branch, Alappuzha. Bank code is FDRL 000001015.

Nearest railway station: Alappuzh

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town.

Annual Feast In St.Andrew's Forane Church At Arthunkal For Devotees

 ARTHUNKAL PERUNNAL

Start date: 10-01-2017

End date: 20-01-2017

Venue: St. Andrew's Forane Church

Location: Arthunkal

District: Alappuzha

The Arthunkal Perunnal (perunnal meaning feast) is the annual feast of St. Sebastian held in the St. Andrew's Forane Church at Arthunkal in Alappuzha. The event sees devotees from across the state throng the church to participate in the feast which is held in January every year. 

One of the main events during the feast involves a ceremonial procession wherein the statue of St. Sebastian is taken out from the church to the beach and back. Another intriguing event is the ceremony on the final day when devotees crawl on their knees all the way from the nearby beach to the church. 

By Air

Cochin International Airport, about 85 km

By Train

Cherthala, about 8 km; Alappuzha, about 22 km

Kerala - Nehru Trophy Boat Race Packages Booking 2016

 NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE

Kerala boat race

NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE ONLINE BOOKING, NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE 

TICKETS

ACCOMMODATION IN ALLEPPEY FOR KERALA BOAT RACE

KERALA TOURS, TAXI ASSISTS FOR ALLEPPEY SNAKE BOAT RACE

9th season of organizing of this event

INTRODUCTION TO KERALA BOAT RACE OR VALLOMKALI

The Nehru trophy Alleppey snake boat race that falls annually on the second Saturday of August is a world famous boat race that still retains its amateur status. While other historic, traditional sports events similar to the Kerala boat race has turned wholly commercial over recent times, this unique Alappuzha boat race spectacle still retains its vibrant village festival spirit.

Among the many boat races held through the Kerala boat race season, the Nehru trophy boat race is the most popular. Thousands of locals, domestic and International tourists flock to Alleppey, Kerala for this particular race.

The Kerala snake boat race is reputed to be the largest team sport in the world. Over 100 rovers, drummers, cheer chanters are on board the only in Alappuzha built 'chundan' valloms for the Kerala vallamkali.

History of Johnson's event for the Nehru trophy boat race.

Johnson Gilbert, tourism entrepreneur, based in Alleppey, Kerala runs a successful homestay and houseboat business over the last fifteen years.

9 years ago, after listening to complaints from his in house guests of the inconveniences on attending the Nehru trophy boat races, Johnson decided to tailor his alternative hassle free package for the tourists who visit Alleppey to watch the Kerala boat race. To this end, he custom designed an exclusive event, in which his guests watch the race from the comfort and safety of a houseboat.

As thousands of tourists visit Alappuzha for the race, Johnson decided to arrange accommodation for the tourists and combine it with his Kerala snake boat race package. Next, he included houseboat stays as a natural extension of his Nehru trophy boat race event. Every year, Johnson utilizes his experience to usher in key changes for the convenience of his guests. One such important facility is the opportunity for his guests to reach the race later than the specified time or to leave early. This is an important arrangement as in case of an emergency, his guests can leave any time they choose, at a nominal extra charge.

His first such Alleppey snake boat race event was held in 2008 with about 40 guests. Now, the number of guests has risen to more than 200.

The USP of his enterprise is that the guests are offered an exclusive, uninterrupted view in the safety and comfort of a houseboat. To and fro transportation is included, breakfast, lunch and hygienic drinking water is included. And this year, Johnson, for the first time offers an air conditioned houseboat for the discerning clientale. This is the only way a tourist can watch the race in air conditioned comfort.

JOHNSON ' S KERALA NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE PACKAGES

On the morning of the race, 8.15 am, those who have booked the Kerala snake boat race tickets through Johnson are requested to turn up at his guesthouse, Johnson's (easy to find). From there, they are in his hands. Transport is arranged - Taxi or rickshaw - to where the houseboats awaits. The houseboat cruises through the backwaters to the venue - punnamada lake - for Nehru trophy boat race 2016. Breakfast, lunch and hygienic drinking water is included, free. Vegetarian food for pure vegetarians. After the race, transport to the town centre is arranged free for all his guests, by rickshaw.

We can proudly declare that the above arrangements and conveniences can be only offered by us, till date, on a professional, yet friendly basis.

Highlights of Nehru trophy boat race 2016

• Aircon and non aircon houseboats for this season' s Kerala boat race. Aircon arrangements for the first time ever.
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• Special packages for those who wish to combine the Nehru trophy boat race, vallam kali, with other popular tourist destinations like Munnar, Athirapally, Fort Kochi, Periyar, etc.
• Four seater, eight seater taxi cabs, or a traveller buses arranged for our guests.
• As usual, accommodation or houseboat rentals are arranged.
• Very Important- for those who wish to arrive late, or leave early from the race, special motorised canoes are arranged -at extra cost.
• Tourists who arrange their own accommodation can still join Johnson's Nehru trophy boat race event, by buying the Kerala snake boat race tickets through him.

Buy the Kerala boat race tickets, by booking it online. Pay through online banking.

The excitement begins

Nehru trophy boat race is known by various different names. For example, to the locals, it is 'vallamkali' (canoe games). International tourists prefer to call it the - Alleppey snake boat race. Domestic tourists out of Kerala, call it the Kerala boat raceor Kerala snake boat race. Whatever one calls it, there is a common factor that drives all to attend the race on August 13th, Saturday 2016- it's a wonderful one of a kind sporting spectacle.

Nehru trophy boat race tickets - on full A/c houseboat - Rs.2700/- per person

(Includes welcome drink, b'fast, lunch, tea/snacks, hygienic drinking water, transport to boat and transport to town center after race is included)

Nehru trophy boat race tickets - on non A/c houseboat- Rs.1900/- per person

(Includes lunch and hygienic drinking water, transport to boat on morning of race and transport to town center after race included)

Please Visit Keralatoursim

Nehru Trophy Boat Race - It Is The Mainly Well-Liked Of All Boat Races In The World

NEHRU TROPHY BOAT RACE

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ALAPPUZHA

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru is conducted on the Punnamda Lake, near Alappuzha, on the second Saturday of August every year.

 On the day of this fiercely fought boat race, the tranquil lake front is transformed into a sea of humanity with an estimated two lakh people, including tourists from abroad for watching it.

For the people of each village in Kuttanad, a victory at this race for their village boat is something to be celebrated for months to come.

The Nehru trophy Boat Race, looked forward to by all and sundry, transforms the calm, serene waters of the Punnamada backwaters into a beehive of activities. It is a time when festivity and joy fill the air.

Held on the second Saturday of August every year, it is the most popular of all boat races in the world. Magnificent snake boats compete for the prized trophy, named after India’s first Prime Minister, Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru.The event commemorates his visit to Alappuzha.

Apart from the races of chundanvalloms (snake boats) and of smaller country crafts, the event has in store many fascinating moments like the ceremonial water procession, spectacular floats and decorated boats.

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha, about 8 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town

For More Destination In Kerala

Carnoustie Ayurveda Resort - Became Popular Destination For Relaxation And Rejuvenate Body Also

CARNOUSTIE AYURVEDA RESORT 

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ALAPPUZHA

Ayurvedic resorts have become popular destinations for relaxation and rejuvenation in India, while ayurvedic hospitals cater for people seeking ayurvedic treatment for more serious health problems.

Ayurveda is the medical side of yoga. It’s India’s traditional natural healing system, which has been practiced for over 5,000 years

Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic medicine is particularly effective for metabolic, stress related, and chronic conditions. Treatments are also very helpful in relieving the effects of surgery and debilitating treatments such as chemotherapy. Other popular uses of Ayurveda are for general rejuvenation and beauty care.

Process for Ayurvedic Treatment

Ayurveda is a pranic system of medicine, which works to balance the body’s life energy -- referred to as the doshas. This is achieved by diet, different types of massage, pouring herbal liquid onto the body, and covering the body with herbal leaves and powders.

 You’ll be assessed by a qualified doctor and a treatment program tailor made to address the root of your problem.

Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala are plentiful, due to the moist humid climate and abundant supply of medicinal plants and herbs there. Not only can you rejuvenate your body, you can have a wonderful vacation at the same time.

However, the treatments at some Ayurvedic resorts are much better than others. These top Kerala Ayurvedic resorts are all well managed, and have an excellent range of properly administered Ayurvedic treatments. To save money, go during the monsoon season (from June to September).

Carnoustie Ayurveda and Wellness Resort in Marari is a 5 star accommodation, situated at a distance of 5 km from Tiruvizha Railway Station and 2 km from Thiruvizha Beach.

This property features an Ayurvedic spa center. Housing a total 32 rooms and villas, this resort in Marari offers basic amenities like wardrobe, work desk, telephone, sitting area, private pool and an attached bathroom.

The weather is perfect for Ayurveda at that time too! You'll also find some excellent holistic India wellness centers in other states. However, if you have a serious illness, do consider an Ayurvedic hospital as an alternative.

The ultimate in luxury and pampering, Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort at Marari beach offers holistic treatments that combine Ayurveda, yoga, mantra, and naturopathy.

This includes individual Ayurvedic diets for guests. The programs from renowned London-based integrated medicine doctor Mosaraf Ali are particularly noteworthy. Accommodations are provided in opulent villas with private plunge pools. Rates start from around $290 rupees per night, plus tax.  Seven, 14 and 21 day Ayurvedic packages are available.

 Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort is located opposite St. Antony's Church and 5.6 miles from both Cherthala railway and bus stations. It is 10.6 miles from Alleppey Railway Station and 40.4 miles from Cochin International Airport.

Address

Opp. Chennaveli Church, State Highway 66, Mararikulam, Chennaveli, Chethy, Alappuzha, Kerala 688530

Kerala State Is Always Famous For Snake Boat Races-Champakulam

SNAKE BOAT RACE

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CHAMPAKULAM

 Champakulam is located in Alappuzha of the state of Kerala. it is an important tourist spot and the famous for the moolam boat race.

 Kerala state is always famous for snake boat races. This is main attraction of tourism in our state. The boat festival season in our God's own country begins with Champakulam Boat race. This is one of the most popular boat races in our state that attracts tourists from different parts of the world.

Champakulam Boat Race Alappuzha is one of the oldest sports festivals held on the river Pamba. History supports that this heritage boat festival had started from middle of 16th Century.

Now this has become a yearly event and is held on the month of June in the daytime. According to record the event was initiated in the year 1545. Till date this Champakulam Boat at Alappuzha starts the beginning of the boat race season in Kerala.

 As a leading event as well as for its grandeur, the boat is extremely famous and pulls thousands of tourists for watching the race live.

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.

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha about 26 km away.

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha.

BACKWATER TOUR

BACKWATER TOUR

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ALLEPPEY

The architectural splendor and the modern outlook of this capital city make Alleppey the dream destination for tourists. Alleppey the backwater destination of Kerala is famous for its beautiful backwaters houseboat cruises and seafood.

 If you are looking for an idyllic retreat amidst the emerald green waters, palm fringed shores and lush acres of greenery then Kerala Backwaters is the ideal destination for you.

Alleppey is the place where you can spend your leisure hours amidst emerald green waters and coconut groves. Popularly known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey is the place where tourists can taste the true flavors of Kerala's rustic life.

 Boat races or houseboat cruises everything is quite unique about Alleppey. Tourists however visit Alleppey during the annual boat race.

Alleppey(Alappuzha) has a large network of canals and one of the major centres for backwater boat trips. This palace where narrow canals, rivers, lakes lagoons and land meet are aptly called “Alleppey backwaters”.

 In this wonderful land lush green paddy fields, coconut plantation, topicana and banana, mango are cultivated four to six feet below the sea level. Life here cannot be though without a canoe or boats. It is the land of fishermen and women.It distinguishes itself with prawns, mussels, pearl spot fish and other fishes.

 In order to be one with Vembanad Lake which is the biggest freshwater lake in Kerala a backwater cruise on the lakes and rivers take you along canals past scenic islands offering sublime views of coconut and paddy fields, fishing nets, toddy tapers at work, flocks of ducks swimming aroung the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky and typical Kerala village houses to experience an extra ordinary trip through the backwaters and take sweet memories of Kerala back.

The choice of menu is handed over the guests who can decide which kind of typical Kerala food with different tastes are to be served on board for breakfast, lunch and dinner. All these facilities enables the guest to feel at home away from home.

By Air

Cochin international airport,situated about 86 km, away, handles both domestic and international flights, jet airways, Indian airlines and kingfisher operate daily filghts to kochi from various destinations in India and abroad. One can fly to Singapore, middle east and Malaysia and to most major Indian cities.

cochin airport runs the cochin airport taxi society, pre-paid taxi service, which can be hired to reach alappuzha.

By Train

The alappuzha railway station located about 4km away, falls on the coastal rail route between Ernakulam and kavamkulam, alappuzha is connected to cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, Chennai, Mumbai, Bengalore, mangalore.

By Bus

National highway 47 passes through Alappuzha connecting it to cities like Ernakulam,Thrissur, kollam,and Trivandrum. Alappuzha can be reached by bus from cities like Kochi. Trivandrum, Kozhikode,Chennai,bengalore, mysore and Coimbatore.