Vallamkali or the Snake Boat Race is the most enchanting facet of the festival of Onam. The event is promoted as a major tourist attraction of the state of Kerala and draws a large number of domestic and international tourists. Vallamkali has been going on for a good number of years and its popularity is soaring with each passing year.

   Much credit for the success of Snake Boat Race can be attributed to Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru who was so enamoured by this colourful event that he instituted a trophy for the race.

The Legend

   There is also an interesting legend behind this very electrifying event. The story goes that once about 10 kilometers up the river Pamba from Aranmula, the head of the Katoor Mana, a Namboodiri family, offered his daily prayers and was waiting to feed a poor man to complete the ritual.

    After waiting for long, the Brahmin closed his eyes and started praying to Lord....