A large part of verdure Alappuzha district in Kerala, India is covered with backwaters, canals and / or rivers, requiring an efficient water transportation system. A variety of boats such as dugouts, rice barges and long boats are used to negotiate these extensive water stretches. The water bodies of the district are not only known for rich fauna but also for various types of boat races. About 100-foot long snake boats (locally called chundans) are specially manufactured for the races. Each snake boat is rowed by 90-100 people.
Alappuzha, the Venice of the east, will host Champakulam Boat Race, the first of the season in the state, on June 26, 2010. The race that draws huge crowd form within and outside the state will be held on the River Pamba. Go early to find a suitable place along the riverbank to cheer rowers.
