How to Play Vimanam
Vimanam (also known as Vimana, Panchi, or Aeroplane game) is a traditional Indian board game that has been played across South India for generations. This exciting two-player race game uses cowrie shells (kavades) as dice and combines strategy, luck, and tactical gameplay. The name "Vimanam" refers to the flying chariots mentioned in ancient Indian epics, symbolizing the race to victory.
Part of India's rich board gaming heritage, Vimanam belongs to the family of single-track race games that have entertained families for centuries. Available at Roll the Dice, this beautifully crafted game brings authentic Indian tradition to your home.
Game Components
What's Included:
- 1 Vimanam game board with cross-shaped track design.
- 12 pawns (6 of each color for two players).
- 6 kavades (cowrie shells) used as dice.
- Illustrated instruction sheet.
Players: 2 players
Age: 6 years and above
Playing Time: 30-60 minutes
How to Set Up Vimanam Board Game
Step 1: Prepare the Board
Place the Vimanam game board on a flat surface. Each player selects 6 pawns of the same color.
Step 2: Starting Positions
All pawns begin in their respective "home" areas outside the board. Notice the safe blocks (marked with special symbols) on the board—these protect pawns from being captured.
Step 3: Determine First Player
Both players throw the 6 kavades (cowrie shells). Count the number of shells landing mouth-up. The player with the higher count starts the game.
Step 4: Enter the Game
To bring a pawn onto the starting square, you must throw a 1 or 5 on the kavades.
Understanding Kavade (Cowrie Shell) Throws
The 6 kavades serve as dice in this traditional Indian board game. Each shell can land either mouth-up or mouth-down. Count the number of mouths facing up to determine your move:
| Throw Result | Move Spaces | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 mouth up | 1 space | Play again |
| 2 mouths up | 2 spaces | - |
| 3 mouths up | 3 spaces | - |
| 4 mouths up | 4 spaces | - |
| 5 mouths up | 5 spaces | Play again |
| 6 mouths up | 6 spaces | Play again |
| All mouths up | 12 spaces | Play again |
Throws of 1, 5, 6, or 12 earn you an extra turn!
How to Play: Step-by-Step Rules
Starting Your Pawns
- Throw the kavades to enter pawns onto the board.
- You need a 1 or 5 to place a pawn on your starting square.
- Once a pawn enters, it follows the track around the board.
Moving Your Pawns
- On your turn, throw all 6 kavades.
- Count the mouths facing up to determine your move.
- Move ONE pawn the full number of spaces shown.
- You must move the complete number—no partial moves allowed.
- If you cannot move, you forfeit your turn.
Safe Blocks
Special marked squares on the board are safe blocks. Pawns on safe blocks cannot be captured by opponents. Use these strategically to protect your pieces!
Capturing Opponent's Pawns
- If you land on a square occupied by your opponent's pawn (not on a safe block), you capture it.
- The captured pawn is removed from the board and returns to opponent's home.
- The player who captures gets an extra turn.
- To re-enter a captured pawn, the opponent must throw a 1 or 5.
Reaching the Inner Track
After completing the outer track circuit, pawns move to the inner track heading toward the center finish zone.
Important Victory Rule
Before any of your pawns can enter the final stretch to the center, you must capture at least one opponent's pawn during the game. This adds strategic depth to Vimanam gameplay.
Winning the Game
The first player to successfully move all 6 pawns to the center finish zone wins!
Vimanam Game Strategy Tips
1. Balance Attack and Defense
Don't rush all pawns forward. Keep some back to create blocking opportunities.
2. Use Safe Blocks Wisely
Position pawns on safe blocks when opponent's pieces are nearby to avoid capture.
3. Capture Strategically
Remember: you must capture at least one pawn before finishing. Plan your captures early in the game.
4. Maximize Bonus Turns
Throws of 1, 5, 6, and 12 give extra turns. Use these to advance multiple pawns quickly.
5. Block Opponent's Path
Position pawns to limit opponent's movement options and force risky moves.
6. Protect Leading Pawns
Once a pawn reaches the inner track, protect it carefully as it approaches the finish.
Why Play Vimanam? Benefits of Traditional Indian Board Games
Educational Benefits:
- Strategic Thinking: Plan moves several turns ahead.
- Probability Skills: Understand chance and risk assessment.
- Counting & Math: Calculate moves and space counting.
- Social Skills: Communication and sportsmanship.
Cultural Connection:
Playing Vimanam connects you to centuries of Indian gaming tradition. This heritage game has been passed down through generations, teaching patience, strategy, and fair play.
Family Entertainment:
Perfect for family game nights, Vimanam offers screen-free entertainment that brings people together. Suitable for ages 6 and above, it creates lasting memories across generations.