Alleppey (Alappuzha) is the “Venice of the East,” not only because of the tranquil backwaters, tropical paradise allure, and beautiful traditional houseboats, but also because of the celebrations and cultural activities available all year round.. Symphonizing your Alleppey houseboat booking with festivals and events will allow you to enjoy the tranquil Kerala backwaters and festive cultural events!
Here are the top festivals and events to experience from your Alleppey houseboat including dates and months for your planning.
Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race - August (Second Saturday in August)
The Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is the most popular event in Alleppey taking place every year on the second Saturday of August at Punnamada Lake. It is one of the biggest water sports festival in India receiving thousands of visitors from all over the world.
Snake boats (chundan vallams) travel through the water with roughly 100 oarsmen in sync rowing to the beat of the traditional songs. Watching the high-energy atmosphere of this race from your Kerala backwater houseboat gives you a front row view without all the crowds. The race originated in 1952, after Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited Alleppey, and was so taken with the sight that he donated a trophy.
Champakulam Moolam Boat Race - June/July
The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race is regarded as the oldest boat race in Kerala and held in June or July. It is observed every year on the Moolam day of Midhunam in the Malayalam calendar, and commemorates the placement of the idol at Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple.
It is not only a race to see who finishes first but a celebration of diversity and religion. Boats adorned with colors, cultural processes, religious celebrations – the community of Alleppey will invest in making this a great time and from the deck of your houseboat, you will see the steps unfold in a Cairn of the monsoon season where it is lush and bounteous.
Onam Festival and Boat Races – August to September
Onam is Kerala’s largest cultural celebration, or harvest festival, and takes place in August–September. For the traveler on an, an Alleppey houseboat is perhaps the best opportunity to see Kerala’s backwaters at their most lively.
As part of Onam, the villages and canals are stunningly decorated with flower carpets, cultural dance performances and feasts called Onam Sadhya. In addition, there are a number of important boat races:
- Payippad Jalotsavam – September at Payippad Lake.
- Rajiv Gandhi Trophy Boat Race – Pulinkunnu, Alappuzha – August or September.
- Aranmula Uthrattadi Boat Race – Pathanamthitta district (not far from Alleppey) time of Onam.
These events are embedded in local customs feel, these events provided visitors an authentic cultural experience while enhancing your backwater experience.
Alleppey Beach Festival – March – April
Travelling in the summer months of March or April? If you are, then be sure to stop in for the Alleppey Beach Festival, which takes place around the Easter period.
This exciting festival is held on the lively beaches of Alleppey Beach featuring, traditional art forms, music concerts, cultural events, food stalls and fireworks. Though this event is on the coast as opposed to the backwaters of Alleppey, a lot of houseboat visitors join their cruise with a short outing to enjoy the food and festivities. It is the perfect opportunity to experience another part of the culture of Alleppey.
Mullackal Chirappu Festival - December
Alleppey has the Mullackal Chirappu Festival in December at the popular Mullackal Bhagavathy Temple in the heart of town.
The Mullackal Chirappu Festival is a 41 days festival featuring different rituals, cultural performances, processions, and temple elephants that will amaze every visitor. Houseboats docked very close to the festival will also give travelers plenty of choice to explore the decorated streets and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
Arthunkal Perunnal – January
St. Andrew’s Basilica’s Arthunkal Perunnal is one of the biggest festivals for Christians in kerala, and is held every January in the coastal village of Arthunkal, near Alleppey.
Each year, lakhs of pilgrims travel to participate its grand feast, processions, and church services. Visitors who are staying on a houseboat can take a short trip to Arthunkal for a glimpse of this massive show of devotion, and a sense of the magnitude of this event — and how much it is linked to the cultural identity of the region.
Edathua Perunnal – May
May is home to the Edathua Perunnal also recognized as the feast of St. George, it is another well-attended Christian festival in Alleppey.
The church and its surroundings are decorated with lights, processions, fireworks, and music, for the celebration. Houseboat travelers often make time to celebrate this festival and immerse themselves in this spiritual and communal celebration!
Chettikulangara Kumbha Bharani - February to March
The Chettikulangara Kumbha Bharani festival takes place in February or March and is well-known for its vibrant yearlong processions, and its unique ritual Kuthiyottam , which young devotees participate in.
This rave event in Chettikulangara temple in Alappuzha district is must-see for those interested in temple traditions in Kerala.
Cultural Experiences Outside of Festival
Most major festivals are restricted by time and perhaps the duration of your trip doesn’t fall in or around a major festival. Either way, don’t despair—there are plenty of authentic Kerala experiences to be had on Alleppey houseboats:
- Village walks where tourists can witness coir making, coconut farming, toddy tapping.
- Kerala cuisine, which can include karimeen fry, sambar, aviyal, payasam, etc. served onboard.
- Kathakali and Mohiniyattam performances planned for guests.
- Ayurvedic massages offered in wellness centers near the backwaters.
These reasons form a unique experience for people that visitors rarely get. They enhanced your trip and formed a meaningful connection to the culture and traditions of Kerala.
Conclusion
The houseboat experience in Alleppey is more than just beautiful scenery – it is an opportunity to also experience the lively festivals that make Kerala a unique cultural experience.
Every festival adds a meaning to your trip, whether it be the excitement of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race that takes place in August, the devotion of the Arthunkal Church Feast celebrated in January, the celebration of Onam that takes place in mid-August until early September, etc.
Therefore, when you are planning your trip, do check out any local festival calendar and endeavour to time your houseboat bookings in Alleppey with any local festivals. That is surely the best way to enjoy the peacefulness of the backwaters and the vibrancy of the Kerala culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I plan my Alleppey houseboat trip during festival season?
Planning your Alleppey houseboat trip during festival season allows you to experience both the peaceful beauty of the backwaters and the cultural vibrancy of Kerala. Festivals such as the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Onam, and the Arthunkal Church Feast add excitement and give you a glimpse into Kerala’s traditions.
Which festivals are most popular to enjoy while staying in a houseboat?
Some of the most popular festivals include:
Nehru Trophy Boat Race (August) – A thrilling boat race that attracts global visitors.
Onam (August–September) – Kerala’s biggest cultural festival, marked by traditional feasts and performances.
Arthunkal Church Feast (January) – A grand Christian celebration near Alleppey with processions and rituals.
Can I watch the Nehru Trophy Boat Race directly from a houseboat?
Yes, many tourists book houseboats specifically during the Nehru Trophy Boat Race to watch the thrilling event right from the waters. Advance booking is highly recommended since demand is very high during this time.
Is it more expensive to book houseboats during festivals?
Yes, houseboat tariffs often rise during peak festivals because of higher demand. However, the unique cultural experience and festive atmosphere make it worth the extra cost.
How do I know which festivals are happening during my travel dates?
You can check the Kerala tourism festival calendar or consult with your houseboat operator for updated information. Many operators provide details of upcoming events and help plan your itinerary accordingly.
