Traditional boat race in Nagayalanka for Sankranthi

Amaravati: Nagayalanka, in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, comes alive each year during Sankranti with its Traditional Boat Race Festival in Nagayalanka. Set where the river Krishna meets the Bay of Bengal, this event in Nagayalanka-Diviseema is more than just a competition—it’s a vibrant showcase of local culture, community spirit, and rural tourism. 

 

What Happens: The Festival Day by Day

• Dates & Occasions: The races are typically held around 13-14 January, coinciding with Sankranti, a major harvest festival in the region.

• Events & Competitions: There are several categories, including solo and team events (groups of five), canoeing, kayaking, rowing, solo boat races, and even a dragon boat race in recent years.

• Participation: In past editions, hundreds of participants from many teams take part. In one event, over 200 participants competed. In another, 76 teams with more than 620 members.

• Cultural Festivities: Along with the races, cultural programmes, food festivals, games like tug-of-war, musical performances, and traditional games are organized. Night shelters or huts may be set up so visitors can stay overnight.

Why Nagayalanka Boat Race is Special

• Riverside Location: The setting at the point where the Krishna River flows into the Bay of Bengal gives a very scenic backdrop ‒ freshwater, delta, river banks, rural life.

• Local Culture on Display: It’s not just about speed; the races are tied to local identity, agriculture (harvest time), and traditions. The festival magnifies community pride.

• Tourism Potential: The boat race has been used by the state tourism department as a way to highlight rural and eco-tourism. It helps promote the area’s natural beauty and supports the local economy  

Visiting Info & Logistics

Aspect	Details
Best Time	Around Sankranti (mid-January), especially Jan 13-14. Early morning or late afternoon for better light and cooler temps.
Venue	Sri Rampa Padashketram Pushkar Ghat (Pushkar Ghat), Nagayalanka, Krishna district. On river Krishna near the confluence with the sea.
Participation	Teams form locally; entries often invited by the tourism department. Categories include solo, group, dragon boat etc.
Entry / Viewing	Free or with small fee; seating/viewing on riverbanks; overnight huts sometimes provided.
What to Bring	Shade, water, camera, comfortable footwear. Protective clothing if attending for long durations.

How to Reach Nagayalanka

Nagayalanka is located in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, near the confluence of the Krishna River and the Bay of Bengal. It is well connected by road to major towns and cities.

 By Air

• Nearest Airport: Vijayawada International Airport (Gannavaram) – approximately 85 km from Nagayalanka.

• From the airport, travelers can hire a cab or use local buses to reach the venue.

 By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Machilipatnam Railway Station – about 40 km away.

• Regular trains from Vijayawada, Guntur, and Hyderabad connect Machilipatnam to the region. From the station, autos and buses are available to reach Nagayalanka.

 By Road

• Nagayalanka is well connected by road via NH-216.

• Frequent buses run from Machilipatnam, Vijayawada (about 90 km), and Guntur.

• Self-drive cars and hired taxis are convenient options for visitors coming in groups or with families.

 Tip: Plan to arrive early in the morning on race day to avoid traffic and get good viewing spots along the riverbank

Accommodation Options

Although Nagayalanka is a rural area, there are several comfortable stays nearby. Many visitors prefer staying in Machilipatnam or Vijayawada and traveling to the venue for the event.

 Budget & Mid-Range Stays (Machilipatnam)

• Hotel SSR Residency – Budget-friendly with basic amenities.

• Royal Park Hotel – Mid-range stay with comfortable rooms and in-house dining.

• Haritha Beach Resort (APTDC) – Government-run resort with scenic river and beach views.

 Premium Options (Vijayawada)

• The Gateway Hotel by Taj – 4-star luxury hotel with excellent facilities.

• Lemon Tree Premier – Modern rooms, good connectivity.

• Fortune Murali Park – Popular among business and leisure travelers.

 During Sankranti, book accommodation in advance as rooms fill up quickly. 

Nearby Attractions to Explore

Extend your trip beyond the boat race and explore these beautiful nearby places:

 1. Diviseema Delta (0–5 km)

A stunning river delta region where the Krishna River meets the Bay of Bengal. Known for its mangroves, birdwatching, and peaceful backwaters.

 2. Avanigadda (15 km)

A culturally rich town with local temples and markets. Ideal for a short stop on your way back.

 3. Manginapudi Beach (35 km)

A serene beach near Machilipatnam with golden sands, calm waters, and small eateries. Perfect for a relaxed evening.

 4. Pulicat & Kolleru Lake Bird Sanctuaries (Day trip)

For nature and bird lovers, these sanctuaries host migratory birds during winter and make an excellent eco-tourism addition to your trip.

 5. Machilipatnam Town (40 km)

Known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and Machilipatnam Kalamkari textiles — a great spot for cultural shopping.

Travel Tips for Attending

• Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and get good seats.

• Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen), possibly insect repellent.

• Stay overnight if possible; nearby huts may be available; plan accommodation ahead.

• Carry water and snacks; food stalls may exist but options could be limited.

• Respect the river environment—avoid littering, use local facilities, follow local advice for safety. 

Known Winners & Cash Prizes

• In a past edition (2019), the winners of the rowing competitions at Nagayalanka were awarded a cash prize of ₹25,000.

• Over 620 members from 76 teams competed in that year’s events.

• Other years' news articles primarily mention participation and event categories, but do not consistently report detailed prize amounts. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When does the traditional boat race in Nagayalanka take place?
   It is held annually around 13-14 January, during the Sankranti festival.

2. What kinds of races are there?
   Events include solo races, group races (teams of 5), canoeing, kayaking, rowing, and dragon boat races.

3. How many teams participate?
   Participation varies each year. In recent events, over 70 teams and more than 600 participants have competed.

4. Is there any cost to attend or watch?
   Viewing is usually free, though special arrangements (like huts, overnight stays) may have associated costs. Some races might have minor participation fees.

5. How can visitors reach Nagayalanka?
   Nagayalanka is in Krishna district. You’ll need to travel by road from nearby towns like Machilipatnam or Vijayawada. Local transport (buses, autos) may be available. Plan ahead if coming from farther away.

People Also Ask (PAA)

1. What is the history of the Nagayalanka boat race?

The Nagayalanka Boat Race is deeply rooted in the harvest festival of Sankranti, celebrated across Andhra Pradesh. For generations, the local farming and fishing communities have organized these races as part of their post-harvest celebrations. The event symbolizes teamwork, prosperity, and cultural unity. Over the years, it has evolved from a local village competition to a major cultural festival that attracts visitors from across the state.

2. How long is the race course in the Nagayalanka boat festival?

The length of the race course varies slightly each year depending on the water levels of the Krishna River. Typically, the race stretches between 500 meters to 1 kilometer, offering both speed and endurance challenges for participating teams. The course is designed to provide good visibility for spectators along the riverbank.

3. Are there safety measures for spectators at the river banks?

Yes. Local authorities and volunteers set up barricades and designated viewing areas to ensure public safety. Life jackets are mandatory for participants, and lifeguards are stationed at key points along the course. Emergency medical support is also usually available throughout the event.

4. Can foreigners participate or attend the Nagayalanka boat race?

Absolutely. The festival is open to all visitors, and many travelers—both domestic and international—attend to witness the vibrant celebration. While participation in races is typically reserved for local teams, foreigners can register as special guests or join in cultural programs, enjoy food stalls, and experience rural Andhra’s festive atmosphere.

5. What other festivals coincide with the boat race in Diviseema?

The Nagayalanka Boat Race is held during Makar Sankranti, one of Andhra Pradesh’s biggest harvest festivals. Around the same time, kite festivals, folk dance performances, bullock cart races, and village fairs are also organized across Krishna district and Diviseema region. These parallel celebrations make the entire festival period lively and colorful. 

Conclusion 

The Nagayalanka Traditional Boat Race isn’t just a sporting event — it’s a celebration of Andhra’s rural heart, bringing together culture, community, and the rhythm of the river. With easy accessibility, nearby beaches, nature escapes, and cultural experiences, it’s the perfect destination for travelers looking to witness authentic local festivals.