The Champakkulam Boat Race, held in the picturesque village of Champakkulam in Alappuzha district, is one of the most iconic and oldest snake boat races in Kerala. Typically taking place in June or July, this annual event marks the beginning of the boat race season in the state. The Pampa River provides the perfect setting for this exhilarating race, drawing massive crowds who come to witness the spectacular competition.

The history of the Champakkulam Boat Race is deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious traditions of the region. The race commemorates the installation of the idol of Lord Krishna at the Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Ambalappuzha. According to legend, the original idol installed in the temple was found to be impure, prompting the then king of Chembakassery to find a replacement. A suitable idol was identified at the Kurichi Karikkulam Parthasarathy Temple, and with the consent of the Kurichi Valiamadom family, the idol was brought to Ambalappuzha. During this journey, the king's minister and his team halted for the night at the home of Mappilassery Itty Thommen in Champakkulam to avoid bandits. The next day, the king joined them, and a grand procession accompanied the idol to its new home.

The boat race is held annually to honor this historic procession. Each year, a team from Ambalappuzha visits the Mappilassery family with palpayasam, a sweet dessert special to the Ambalappuzha temple. After prayers and rituals, the race kicks off, creating a festive atmosphere that engulfs the entire village.

The Champakkulam Boat Race features the magnificent chundan vallams, or snake boats, which are long, narrow, and elegantly crafted vessels that require teamwork and synchronization to navigate through the waters. The race is not just a competition but a celebration of Kerala's rich maritime heritage. The sight of these massive boats slicing through the waters to the rhythm of ancient boat songs is a thrilling experience that leaves spectators in awe.

The festival surrounding the boat race includes various cultural programs and traditional performances, adding to the festive spirit. The entire region bursts into life with colorful decorations, music, and dance, creating an ambiance of joy and camaraderie. The Champakkulam Boat Race is also a significant event for the local community, providing an opportunity to showcase their traditions and hospitality to visitors from around the world.

The Champakkulam Boat Race has garnered significant attention over the years. In 1927, the then Diwan of Travancore, Mr. M. E. Watts, inaugurated the race. In 1952, Sri Chithira Thirunal Bala Rama Varma, the last king of Travancore, witnessed the race and instituted the 'Rajpramukhan Trophy' for the first prize winners, adding prestige to the event.

The race takes place on Moolam day in the Malayalam month of Mithunam, which corresponds to June or July. The event starts with rituals and ceremonies, followed by the much-anticipated boat race. Spectators from across Kerala and beyond flock to Champakkulam to witness this grand spectacle, which is an integral part of the state's cultural fabric.