Home » India Travel News » Experience the Thrill of Year-Round Snake Boat Races in Kumarakom: A New Attraction for Travelers Seeking Adventure and Culture in Kerala, India Published on
September 4, 2025Kumarakom, nestled in Kerala‘s picturesque backwaters, is transforming into a hub for year-round tourism. Traditionally, Kerala’s famous snake boat races were limited to the Onam festival season, leaving tourists waiting for months to experience this exhilarating spectacle. However, a recent initiative has changed that. Kumarakom now offers tourists the chance to witness the thrill of snake boat races all year long, thanks to the addition of two newly constructed fibre snake boats to the region’s fleet.This innovation is not only revitalizing Kerala’s cultural tourism but also reshaping the landscape of adventure tourism in the state. For those planning to visit Kerala’s backwaters, this is an exciting new opportunity to engage in something that was previously seasonal and limited.Advertisement The Evolution of Kerala’s Snake Boat RacesSnake boat races have long been one of Kerala’s most iconic cultural events. These races feature long, narrow boats, often carved from wood, that are rowed by dozens of synchronized oarsmen. The traditional boats, known as chundan vallams, have been a staple of Kerala’s Onam celebrations, especially in places like Alappuzha, Punnamada Lake, and Kumarakom.The addition of fibre boats marks a significant step in modernizing the experience without compromising its authenticity. These fibre snake boats, while retaining the traditional structure, are designed to be more durable and practical for year-round use, offering a safer and more accessible option for both participants and spectators.What Makes Kumarakom’s New Snake Boat Experience Unique?Unlike previous offerings, where tourists could only catch the races during the Onam season, the introduction of these fibre snake boats means that anyone visiting Kumarakom can now enjoy the spectacle at any time of the year. The initiative is a strategic move to boost tourism in the area, making it a more appealing destination for those interested in both culture and adventure. This is particularly significant given the increasing competition in the tourism sector, where travelers are seeking new experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing.In this new setup, tourists will have the chance to watch these magnificent boats race on the serene Vembanad Lake or the Cheepungal stream. The races can also be tailored for private groups, offering personalized experiences for those looking to add an extra touch of exclusivity to their Kerala adventure.Adverti …
