The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual event held at Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha in Kerala. Set to take place on August 30, 2025, this year’s edition will see 21 snake boats compete for the top honours, while a total of 71 boats will participate across other categories. Here’s everything you should know.
71st Nehru Trophy Boat Race
The 71st edition of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is scheduled for August 30. It will once again light up Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, Kerala. Known for its spectacular snake boat races, this event attracts thousands of spectators from across the world.
Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, the race was inaugurated in 1952 and has since become a cultural hallmark of Kerala. According to The Times of India, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate this year’s race at 2 pm. The chief guests include Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Rajeshkumar Indukant Modi and Ambassador Stella Nkomo.
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Race Day Highlights
As per the same report, the day will begin at 11 am with the mass drill of all participating boats, followed by heats (which refer to qualifying rounds) and finals across categories. In the snake boat category, six heats will be held: four boats in the first four heats, three in the fifth, and two in the sixth. The four best-timed boats will then compete in the final race. These massive snake boats, over 100 feet long and rowed by more than 100 oarsmen, will race through the water in perfect rhythm.
Rhythmic beats of drums will fill the atmosphere, and chants will also add to the festive energy. Spectators will cheer, making the event even more vibrant. Beyond the competition, the boat race celebrates Kerala’s cultural traditions, which people have followed for many years. The event is expected to draw huge crowds, which is why around 1,500 police personnel will be deployed in and around Punnamada for security. Authorities have also arranged extra buses and boats to help tourists travel smoothly.
Important Note For Visitors
Tickets and entry passes will be available through government offices and the official NTBR website. Ticket prices start at ₹100 and go up to ₹25,000, depending on the category. Plus, everyone is also advised to follow safety protocols to make the most of the celebrations.
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is more than just a race event; it is a celebration of Kerala’s heritage. Moreover, the race significantly contributes to the state’s tourism industry while keeping its age-old traditions alive.
Also Read: Why Does Vallamkali, Kerala’s Renowned Snake Boat Race Take Place During Onam?
So, if you are in Kerala this August, don’t miss the chance to witness the most-awaited boat race of the year.
Where: Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, Kerala
When: August 30, 2025
Ticket Cost: Starting at ₹100
Cover Image Courtesy: Nehru Trophy Boat Race/ Website
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