Think of houseboats. Think of Kumarakom. This sleepy little town on the Vembanad Lake, part of the legendary backwaters of Kerala, is one of the best places to get the famous houseboat experience in Kerala.
Kumarakom was once part of the kingdom of Thekkumkur and is famous for its Chundan Vallam and Kettu Vallam boats that moved at lightning speed to defend the kingdom. This ancient tradition lives on in the thatched houseboats that dot the backwaters of Kumarakom.
The Kumarakom Boat Race, also called the Sree Narayana Jayanthi Boat Race, takes place on the Vembanad Lake, one of the most important places in the backwaters of Kerala. The race is always held in September amidst the Onam festival. More than 20 boats of different sizes and shapes participate in this event.
Though snake boats also participate in this race, the importance here lies with Iruttukuthi, where about 50 rowers compete. The successful Iruttukuthi win the Sree Narayana Ever Rolling Trophy.