Where to Stay for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the biggest day in Alappuzha's calendar: snake boats with over a hundred rowers racing down Punnamada Lake while thousands watch from the banks. Olivia Alleppey stands at Finishing Point, Punnamada, the stretch of shore where the race ends.
About the race
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a snake-boat (chundan vallam) regatta held on Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, usually in August. Village crews train for months, and the heats build to a final at the finishing point.
The date is set each year by the organisers and can move with the monsoon and the state calendar, so confirm it with the Nehru Trophy Boat Race Society or Kerala Tourism before you book travel.
Why the location matters
Race day closes roads and fills the town. Staying at Finishing Point, Punnamada, means you are already at the lakeshore instead of crossing a crowded town to reach it.
Our lake-view rooms and suites look over the Punnamada backwaters. Ask the reservations team which rooms have the best view of the water on your dates.
Booking tips
Rooms near the race sell out first, so book as soon as the date is announced and keep your plans flexible until it is confirmed.
Arrive the day before. Traffic into Alappuzha on race day is slow, and a night in place saves you the queue.
Expect a heat: it is monsoon season, so carry rain cover, and plan indoor time at the spa or the restaurants between heats.
Frequently asked questions
- When is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race?
- It is usually held in August on Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha. The exact date is announced each year, so check with the organisers or Kerala Tourism before booking.
- Where is Olivia Alleppey in relation to the race?
- Olivia Alleppey is at Finishing Point, Punnamada, Alappuzha, on the lakeshore where the Nehru Trophy Boat Race finishes.
- How early should I book a room for race weekend?
- As early as you can once the date is confirmed. Rooms near Punnamada are in highest demand around the race.
Stay at Finishing Point, Punnamada
View lake-view rooms