Aranmula Uthrattathi Boat Race

Onam eve of this year is coming to an end. For Keralites Onam season of the year will come to an end by the day of Uthrattathi, and the Uthrattathi Vallam kali of Aranmula. Vallam kali refers to the boat race festival which is held during the last days of Onam.


The Aranmula Boat Race (vallam kali) is the oldest river boat fiesta in Kerala the south western State of India is held during Onam (August-September). It takes place at Aranmula, near a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Arjuna.

Aranmula Boat Race is held each year on the Pampa River on the last day of the Onam festival (uthrattathi day).

The ‘Vallam kali’ attracts tourists from all around the globe. Around 3 lakh spectators including visitors from other countries have always been attending this event.

The snake boats (palliyodams) are center of attraction in this festival. These are peculiar boats resemble snakes and are about 100 feet long.

There are 42 palliyodams (snake boats) will participate in this year’s competition representing 42”Karas” around Aranmula from Chennithala to Ranni, accommodating around 100.

The snake boats move to the rhythm of full-throated singing and shouting watched by an exciting crowd and the vanchipattu team of each “kara” (rustic part) of the river pampa.

The boats are decorated with colorful flags, silk banners and golden umbrellas to make this a spectacular show. All this provide a mystical look to the festival of Aranmula vallam kali.

It is the time of celebration for all malayalies without caste and creed.

All malayalies living abroad feel proud of this world famous water race and all our hearts will be there in Aranmula on this day.