Vayalar Boat Club
The Vayalar Boat Club is a prominent center for the traditional boat racing culture that defines the spirit of Alappuzha and the surrounding backwaters. Located in the historic village of Vayalar, this club is more than just a sports organization; it is a community hub where the ancient art of buil ding and rowing "Chundan Vallams" (Snake Boats) is preserved. The village of Vayalar itself is steeped in history, known for its revolutionary past, but the boat club brings a different kind of energy—one of camaraderie and athletic prowess. The club is actively involved in training rowers for prestigious events like the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Visitors to the club can often see the long, majestic snake boats docked in their sheds (Vallappura), which are architectural wonders in themselves. The craftsmanship involved in maintaining these boats, made from "Anjili" wood, is a meticulous process passed down through generations. During the racing season, the atmosphere around the club becomes electric as hundreds of rowers practice in unison to the rhythmic beats of "Vanchippattu" (boat songs). This location offers a raw and authentic look at Kerala's backwater life, away from the highly commercialized tourist spots. It is a place where you can see the local youth dedicating their time to keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. For travelers, it provides an opportunity to learn about the physics of boat design and the intense physical training required to navigate these 100-foot-long vessels. The proximity to the Vayalar Rakthasakshi Mandapam also adds a layer of historical significance to the visit. :
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 HoursPlace Type:
Sports & CultureEntry Fees:
Free Public Access: There is no formal entry fee to visit the Vayalar Boat Club or to view the boats in their sheds. It is a community-run space. However, if you wish to take a guided tour or a private boat ride, you may need to pay the local boatmen or provide a small do...Free Public Access: There is no formal entry fee to visit the Vayalar Boat Club or to view the boats in their sheds. It is a community-run space. However, if you wish to take a guided tour or a private boat ride, you may need to pay the local boatmen or provide a small donation to the club's maintenance fund, which is highly appreciated by the local community.
:Timing:
Daylight Hours: The best time to visit is between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM. To catch the rowers' practice, visit early in the morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) during the racing season. The club is open throughout the week, but Sunday afternoo...Daylight Hours: The best time to visit is between 9:00 AM and 5:30 PM. To catch the rowers' practice, visit early in the morning (7:00 AM to 9:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) during the racing season. The club is open throughout the week, but Sunday afternoons are when you'll find the most local activity and community gatherings.
:Special Events:
Boat Race Season: The peak event is the preparation for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (held on the second Saturday of August). In the weeks leading up to this, the club hosts grand practice sessions followed by community feasts. Local "Vallam Kali" (boat races) held in the n...Boat Race Season: The peak event is the preparation for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (held on the second Saturday of August). In the weeks leading up to this, the club hosts grand practice sessions followed by community feasts. Local "Vallam Kali" (boat races) held in the nearby waters during the Onam festival season in September are also major events that attract local crowds and vibrant celebrations.
:Best Photo Spots:
The Boat Shed Interior: The perspective of the long boat receding into the shadows of the shed makes for a dramatic photo.
Rowers in Action: Action shots of the synchronized rowing during practice sessions are iconic.
Read MoreThe Boat Shed Interior: The perspective of the long boat receding into the shadows of the shed makes for a dramatic photo.
Rowers in Action: Action shots of the synchronized rowing during practice sessions are iconic.
Reflections on the Backwater: The calm waters of Vayalar provide mirror-like reflections of the coconut groves.
The Martyrs' Memorial: The nearby red-themed memorial provides a striking contrast for historical and architectural photography.
:Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
See Snake Boats: Visit the boat sheds to see the massive Chundan Vallams up close and appreciate their scale and design.
Watch Practice Sessions: If you visit during July or August, you can witness the intense practice sessions of the rowers on the backwaters.
Learn Vanchippattu: Interact with the locals to understand the rhythm and lyrics of traditional boat songs that keep the rowers in sync.
Photography: Capture the symmetry of the long boats and the reflections on the calm Vayalar waters.
Historical Tour: Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Vayalar Martyrs' Memorial to learn about the region's political history.
Sunset Canoe Rides: Hire a small country boat for a peaceful ride aroun...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Hub of Boat Racing: It is famous for its contribution to the Snake Boat Races of Kerala. The club has a legacy of winning several trophies and is renowned for the discipline and strength of its rowing teams. It is a key location for anyone wanting to witness the preparati...Hub of Boat Racing: It is famous for its contribution to the Snake Boat Races of Kerala. The club has a legacy of winning several trophies and is renowned for the discipline and strength of its rowing teams. It is a key location for anyone wanting to witness the preparation for the "Olympics of the Backwaters. " The village of Vayalar is also famous for its historical significance in the Indian independence and labor movements.
: -
Architecture:
Traditional Boat Sheds: The club's architecture is focused on the Vallappura, traditional long sheds with sloping tiled roofs designed to house the 100 to 120-foot long snake boats. These structures are built with high-quality timber and are open-sided to allow ventilation...Traditional Boat Sheds: The club's architecture is focused on the Vallappura, traditional long sheds with sloping tiled roofs designed to house the 100 to 120-foot long snake boats. These structures are built with high-quality timber and are open-sided to allow ventilation, protecting the boats from direct sunlight and rain. The club building itself follows basic Kerala style with functional spaces for meetings and rower assemblies.
: -
How To Reach:
By Air: Cochin International Airport is about 55 KM away.
By Train: Cherthala Railway Station is the nearest rail head, just 5 KM from Vayalar.
By Road: Vayalar is easily accessible from the NH 66 (National... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Thanneermukkom Bund (6 KM), 2. Vaikom Mahadeva Temple (10 KM), 3. Marari Beach (15 KM), 4. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 KM), 5. Arthunkal Basilica (12 KM), 6. Cherthala Town (5 KM), 7. Pathiramanal Island (8 KM), 8. Alleppey Beach (25 KM), 9. Andhakaranazhi Beach (18 KM), 10. Vechoor Church (7 KM)
Tourism Tips
-
Health and Safety: Be careful near the water's edge, especially during the monsoon when the banks can be slippery.
Packing: Carry an umbrella or raincoat during the monsoon. Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Acc...
Reviews
Vayalar Boat Club Tourism:-
Information about New and Updated Locations(891+) of Kerala Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Kavanattinkara Boat Jetty
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kottathodu River
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Backwaters
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Beach
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Craft Museum
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Fishing Village
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Govt. Boat Jetty
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Houseboat Backwater Cruises
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kumarakom Lake Resort Area
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities