Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024

One of the most glamourous event in India, Nehru Trophy Boat Race celebrates the culture legacy shared by humans and aquatic animals. 1932 in the backwaters of Alappuzha, known as Alleppey now It is held annually and attracts thousands of visitors from across the central Kerala region. Next Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 is going to be bigger and more interesting one with all teams are practicing to show their rowing skill. This blog contains within everything you need to know about the Nehru Trophy Boat Race — its history, significance, ticketing, travel tips and more if you are planning to be part of this spectacular event.

A Glimpse into the History of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race started as a game of festival for the visit of the then Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952. He was so enammered by a snake boat race held in his name on Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha he visited during the trip. The rowers were so good and experienced that Nehru got really impressed and he donated a silver trophy which became the trophy for the boat race which is conducted every year. The race was first known after Nehru, and this is a tradition that has been unchanged ever since to pay tribute to his interest in the sport.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race

Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a glittering pageantry of boats and definitely more than a competition. The snake boats, or chundan vallams, are beautifully appointed vessels with over a hundred oarsmen each – a grand spectacle. The festival is an example of mutual co-operation, solidarity and competitive spirit that embodies the very essence of ‘God’s Own Country Kerala’.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024: Key Dates and Schedule

Let’s move on to the year 2024 – you can make a note in your calendar – the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 will be celebrated again; it will be held every second Saturday of August. The much-awaited Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 is to be held on September 28 on the Punnamada Lake in Alleppey. It usually takes the entire day with prelims in the morning and finals in the afternoon. While the races are taking place, spectators can watch various cultural shows and taste some authentic local food.

How to Book Tickets for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024

Planning Ahead You need to be prepared when you are watched the Nehru trophy boat race live. Nehru Trophy Boat Race Tickets get sold out really fast, so book them well in advance. The tickets of these boats can be booked online through authentic tourism websites or directly from the relevant counter at Alappuzha. Ticket prices vary based upon seating, ranging from general admission to premium seating in close proximity to the fight.
Official Website : https://www.nehrutrophy.nic.in/pages-en-IN/online_ticket.php

Nehru Trophy Boat Race Ticket Price

Tourist Gold: INR 3,000/-
Tourist Silver: INR 2,500/-
Rose Corner: INR 1,000/-
Victory Line: INR 500/-
All View: INR 300/-
Lake View: INR 200/-
Lawn: INR 100/-

70th Nehru Trophy Boat Race Logo launched

The Logo for this year’s Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a kingfisher rowing the boat. The painting by Mrs. K.V. Bijimol from Ranni won first place in the competition. Nehru Trophy Boat Race Logo was unveiled by film star Mr. Kunchacko Boban.

Exploring the Venue: Nehru Trophy Boat Race Location

The people of Alappuzha come out in throngs to witness the event, as it occurs on the serene Punnamada Lake right in the core of the town. Alappuzha is famous with the name Venice of the East as its backwaters and canals crisscross one another making it a perfect venue for this nail-biting activity. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race location is very much approachable from the major cities’ areas in Kerala, therefore esteeming it to be a convenient tourist place for both, domestic and international visitors.

The Experience: What to Expect at the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race becomes a complete event to attend. Teams readying for the race as cheers and synchronized rowing fill the air with festivity. Nehru Trophy Boat Race photos capture the excitement, spirit and activities on full show at the vibrant Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Expect a full day of diverse cultural shows, music and food that will make it a perfect experience for the entire family.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race Video

Travel Tips for Attending the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024

1. Plan Ahead: As mentioned earlier, book your Nehru Trophy Boat Race tickets in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
2. Accommodation: Alappuzha offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. It’s best to book your stay early, as hotels tend to fill up quickly around the event dates.
3. Transportation: Alappuzha is well-connected by road, rail, and waterways. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 83 kilometers away. Local transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws, and boats.
4. Weather Preparedness: August in Kerala is part of the monsoon season, so carry rain gear and be prepared for sudden showers.
5. Local Etiquette: While enjoying the race, respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly and avoid littering the venue.

How to Reach Alleppey Boat Race in 2024

By Air: Reaching Alleppey via Nearby Airports

Cochin International Airport (COK)

Cochin International Airport, located approximately 83 kilometers from Alleppey, is the nearest major airport. Here’s how you can reach Alleppey from Cochin International Airport:

1. Taxis and Private Cars: Prepaid taxis are available at the airport. The journey to Alleppey takes around 2 hours and costs between INR 2,500 to INR 3,000. For a more comfortable journey, you can book a private car through various rental services.
2. Buses: Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) operates buses from the airport to Alleppey. Though economical, the bus journey can take up to 3 hours due to frequent stops.
3. Train: You can take a taxi to Ernakulam Junction (South) Railway Station, which is 27 kilometers from the airport, and then board a train to Alleppey.

Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)

Trivandrum International Airport is another option, situated around 150 kilometers from Alleppey. Although further than Cochin, it provides additional connectivity options.

1. Taxis and Private Cars: A taxi ride from Trivandrum Airport to Alleppey takes about 3.5 hours and costs around INR 4,000 to INR 5,000. Private car services can also be booked in advance.
2. Buses: KSRTC operates buses from Trivandrum to Alleppey, with a travel time of around 4 hours.
3. Train: From Trivandrum Central Railway Station, you can catch a direct train to Alleppey. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

By Rail: Convenient Train Routes to Alleppey

Alleppey Railway Station (ALLP)

Alleppey has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. Here are some key routes:

1. From Kochi/Ernakulam: Multiple daily trains connect Ernakulam Junction to Alleppey. The journey is about 1.5 hours long.
2. From Trivandrum: Trains from Trivandrum Central to Alleppey are frequent, taking around 2.5 to 3 hours.
3. From Chennai: Several trains run from Chennai to Alleppey, including the Alleppey Express. The overnight journey takes approximately 12 hours.
4. From Bangalore: Direct trains from Bangalore to Alleppey, such as the Kanyakumari Express, offer a comfortable overnight journey of about 12 hours.
5. From Mumbai and Delhi: Long-distance trains connect Mumbai and Delhi to Alleppey. The journey from Mumbai takes about 24 hours, while from Delhi, it takes around 48 hours.

Booking Train Tickets

Indian Railways offers online ticket booking through its official website and mobile app. It is advisable to book tickets well in advance, especially during the boat race season, to ensure availability.

By Road: Scenic Routes to Alleppey

Driving to Alleppey

Alleppey is accessible by well-maintained roads from various parts of Kerala and neighboring states. Here are the key routes:

1. From Kochi: The NH66 highway connects Kochi to Alleppey, with a drive time of approximately 1.5 hours. The route is scenic, passing through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
2. From Trivandrum: The journey from Trivandrum to Alleppey via NH66 takes about 3.5 hours. The drive is comfortable, with several spots to stop and enjoy the coastal views.
3. From Bangalore: Driving from Bangalore to Alleppey (around 590 kilometers) can take about 10 hours. The route via NH44 and NH66 is well-paved and offers beautiful views of the Western Ghats.
4. From Chennai: The road trip from Chennai to Alleppey (approximately 750 kilometers) via NH32 and NH66 takes around 13 hours. The drive is long but rewarding, with various scenic spots along the way.

The Boats and the Teams: Pride and Prestige

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race Alappuzha features various categories of boats, with the chundan vallams being the highlight. These boats are meticulously crafted and can be over 100 feet long. Each team comprises about 100 rowers, including a leader who sets the rhythm with a traditional song. The coordination and speed of the rowers are crucial, and extensive practice goes into perfecting their performance.

Behind the Scenes: Preparing for the Race

The preparation for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Alleppey begins months in advance. Teams from different villages practice rigorously, honing their skills and synchronizing their movements. The spirit of camaraderie and competition is evident as each team strives to claim the prestigious Nehru Trophy. Local communities come together to support their teams, making it a collective effort that strengthens social bonds.

The Cultural Impact of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race has a significant cultural impact on Kerala. It promotes tourism, drawing visitors from around the world to witness this unique spectacle. The event also provides a platform for local artisans and performers to showcase their talents, contributing to the preservation and promotion of traditional arts and crafts. The economic boost from tourism and related activities is substantial, benefiting the local economy.

Capturing Memories: Photography Tips for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

For photography enthusiasts, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race offers countless opportunities to capture stunning images. Here are some tips to get the best Nehru Trophy Boat Race photos:

1. Get Close to the Action: If possible, secure a spot near the starting or finishing line for dynamic shots of the boats in motion.
2. Use a Fast Shutter Speed: To freeze the action and avoid motion blur, set your camera to a fast shutter speed.
3. Capture the Atmosphere: Don’t just focus on the boats; capture the excitement of the crowd, the vibrant decorations, and the scenic beauty of the backwaters.
4. Be Respectful: Always be mindful of other spectators and avoid obstructing their view while taking photos.

Nehru Trophy Winners (2010-2023)

YEAR	NAME OF THE BOAT	BOAT CLUB	CAPTAIN
2023	Veeyapuram	Allen Moonnutaikkal	Pallathuruthy Boat Club,Alappuzha
2022	Mahadevikaad Kaatil Thekkethil	Santhosh Chacko	Pallathuruthy Boat Club,Alappuzha
2019	Nadubhagom	Pallathuruthy Boat Club	Narayanan kutty N Udayan
2018	Payippadan	Pallathurthy Boat Club	Shri. James Kutty Jacob
2017	Gabriel Chundan	Thuruthipuram Boat Club	Oommen Jacob
2016	Karichal	Vembanad boat club	Jameskutty Jacob
2015	Jawahar Thayankari	Vembanad boat club	Jameskutty Jacob
2014	Champakkulam Chundan	United Boat Club, Kainakary	George Thomas
2013	Sri Ganeshan	St Francis Boat Club, Harippad	Arun Kumar
2012	Sri Ganeshan	Freedom Boat Club, Kainakary	Jiji Jacob Pollayil
2009	Champakulam	Jesus Boat Club , Kollam	JiJi Jacob Pollayil, Thottuvathala P.O, Kainakary
2008	Karichal	Jesus Boat Club , Kollam	JiJi Jacob Pollayil, Thottuvathala P.O, Kainakary
2007	Payippad snakeboat	Kumarakom Town Boat Club	Kunjumon Meluvallil
2006	Payippad snakeboat	Kumarakom Town Boat Club	Raju Vadakkath
2005	Payippad snakeboat	Kumarakom Town Boat Club	Raju Vadakkath
2004	Cheruthana Chundan	Kumarakom Town Boat Club	Raju Vadakkathu
2003	Karichal	Navajeevan Boat Club	Thampi Podippara
2002	Vellamkulangara	Kumarakom Boat Club	Sunny Jacob
2001	Karichal	Friends Boat Club	Tobin Chandy
2000	Karichal	Alappuzha Boat Club	Bency Randu Thacikal
1999	Alappadan	Town Boat Club	Sambath Kaniyamparambil
1998	Champakulam	Pallathuruty Boat Club	Dominic Kuzhimattam
1997	Alappadan	Navajeevan Boat Club	K.P.Paul
1996	Champakulam	Alappuzha Town Boat Club	Anil Madhavan
1994	ChampakulamJet Airways Boat Club	Cochin Antony Ackarakalam	Cochin Antony Ackarakalam
1993	Kalloparamban	United Boat Club	C.V.Vijayan, Mampalathu chira
1992	Champakulam	United Boat Club, Kainakary	A.K.Lalasan, Alumparambu
1991	Champakulam	United Boat Club, Kainakary	A.K.Lalasan, Alumparambu
1990	Champakulam	United Boat Club, Kainakary	A.K.Lalasan, Alumparambu
1989	Champakulam	United Boat Club, Kainakary	A.K.Lalasan, Alumparambu
1988	Vellamkulangara	Pallathuruty Boat Club	T.P.Rajbhavan
1987	Karichal	Village Boat Club , Kainakary	Sunny Ackarakalam
1986	Karichal	Village Boat Club , Kainakary	Sunny Ackarakalam
1985	Javahar Thayamkari	Friends Boat Club, Chennamkari&Venattukad	P.C.Joseph, Pathilchira
1984	Karichal	Kumarakom Boat Club	Nellanickal Pappachan
1983	Karichal	Kumarakom Boat Club	Nellanickal Pappachan
1982	Karichal	Kumarakom Boat Club	Nellanickal Pappachan
1981	Winners Not declared
1980	Karichal	Pullengadi Boat Club	Ramachadran

Conclusion: Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 is set to be an unforgettable event, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and indomitable spirit of Kerala. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply looking for an extraordinary experience, this boat race has something for everyone. From the thrilling competition on the water to the festive atmosphere on the shore, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a celebration of tradition, teamwork, and community. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this iconic event and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024: Postponed Due to Wayanad Issue

The much-anticipated Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 has been postponed due to unexpected issues in Wayanad. The postponement is due to the ongoing crisis in Wayanad, which has disrupted travel and logistics. Authorities have prioritized safety and accessibility, leading to the decision to extend the date of the boat race. The new date for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race 2024 will be announced soon. Organizers are working closely with local authorities to determine the most suitable time for the event.

New Updates (04-09-2024)
The 70TH Nehru Trophy Boat Race will be held on September 28

Every year, on the second Saturday of August, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) electrifies the waters of Punnamda Lake, near Alappuzha, Kerala. This year’s race, marking its 70th anniversary, was pushed back due to the tragic Wayanad landslides in July. But here’s some good news for Nehru Trophy enthusiasts: the race is now rescheduled for September 28, at its original venue, despite swirling rumors and speculations about a potential cancellation.