The Aranmula Boat Race, also known as Uthrattathi Vallamkali, is a grand traditional snake boat race held on the Pamba River at Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district, Kerala.
Unlike other competitive boat races, this event is primarily a ritualistic and devotional celebration associated with the Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple. The beautifully decorated long snake boats, called Palliyodams, represent different villages and are rowed by hundreds of oarsmen in perfect rhythm, accompanied by traditional songs (Vanchipattu).
The race is conducted during the Onam festival, on the day of Uthrattathi in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August–September). It is a vibrant display of Kerala’s cultural heritage, teamwork, devotion, and festive spirit.