Kerala Nehrutrophy Boat Race

Boat Race

The most colorful water sport in Kerala, is conducted at "PUNNAMADA LAKE" in Alappuzha on the second saturday of every August. This prestigious cultural event of Kerala has been attracting people from all over the world. Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a festival for the people of Alleppey the main attraction of which is the sportive sprits among the participants of the race.

History of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Kerala

In 1952, the Indian Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru visited Alappuzha. In honor of his visit, a boat race was organized in Alappuzha. Nadubhagam Chandan emerged as the winner of this boat race. Panditji was simply elated at their success. Without bothering about the security arrangements he jumped into the winning boat. The boat sailed with him to the jetty. After his return to Delhi, a silver trophy was built following his instructions. It was to be given to the winner of that race. The trophy itself was named after him as the Nehru trophy. The trophy resembles a snake boat placed on a wooden base and the following words are inscribed on it:

"To the winners of the boat race which is a unique feature of community life in Travancore Cochin"
Ever since, this Nehru Trophy Boat Race is being held to honor his visit.

Getting there
By Air:
The airport nearest to Alleppey is Kochi at a distance of 85kms north of Alleppey and Trivandrum airport is located 160kms south of Alleppey.
By Rail:
Alleppey has its Railway Station and is connected by rail with Cochin, Trivandrum, Bangalore, Chennai and other important cities in India.
By Road:
Well connected by road (NH-47). Trivandrum - Alleppey: 160kms, Cochin - Alleppey: 65kms.