Amidst the serene waters and the majestic Himalayan backdrop, one of the most iconic experiences awaits you in Srinagar: a Shikara ride in Dal Lake.
This timeless experience not only provides a glimpse into the soul of Kashmiri culture but also unveils the captivating allure of its natural landscape. Join us as we embark on a journey across the shimmering waters of Dal Lake, aboard the iconic Shikara boats, discovering the magic that awaits at every turn.
A shikara ride on Dal Lake is a must do activity in Srinagar.
The Significance of Shikara Boats
Shikara boats are more than just means of transport; they embody the essence of Kashmiri life and culture. For generations, these elegant wooden boats have plied the serene waters of Dal Lake and other water bodies, connecting communities, transporting goods, and providing livelihoods for local artisans. Their presence is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Kashmiri society, symbolizing resilience, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to nature.
Craftsmanship and Construction of Shikara
The construction of a Shikara boat is a labor of love, requiring skill, patience, and a deep understanding of traditional techniques. Typically made from cedar wood, which is known for its buoyancy and durability, each Shikara is handcrafted by skilled artisans who have honed their craft over generations. The process begins with selecting the finest timber, which is then shaped and carved into the sleek, curved hull that characterizes Shikaras.
The intricate details of a Shikara’s design are a testament to the artisan’s skill and creativity. Elaborate carvings adorn the boat’s exterior, depicting motifs inspired by Kashmiri culture and nature—floral patterns, geometric shapes, and intricate latticework that reflect the region’s rich artistic heritage. These decorative elements not only enhance the boat’s aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes, providing ventilation and allowing water to drain easily.
Cost of Riding a Shikara in Dal Lake
Talking about the cost of Shikara ride in Dal Lake is little tricky. There is a quoted price and then there is an agreed price, then there is also the driver’s commission.
I read quite some articles myself before going to Kashmir and found them lacking in clarity. So, here is what I found out from my trip to Kashmir.
The driver who drives you around would take you to the shikara ride starting point from where he gets the highest commission. Based on the number of adults in the group, they will quote a cost of Rs. 1200 per head or even more. Based on your negotiating skills, you can bring it down to as much as Rs. 600 per head.
We travelled as four adults and a toddler. They first quoted Rs. 4,400 and we got it for Rs. 2,400, at Rs. 600 per adult.
The couples we met on our trip said they had prices ranging from Rs. 1200 to Rs. 1500 for their ride. One of the couples we met were taking their Srinagar tour on a rental bike. As there were no middlemen, the peddler offered them a ride for Rs. 1000.
Note: The prices were from my trip to Kashmir in 2023. It may be higher when you visit due to the natural course of inflation. This is just to give you an idea.
Duration and Timings for Riding a Shikara
Duration
The duration of shikara rides depends on how much you pay. For example, as we were four adults riding a single shikara, the peddler made Rs. 2400 off the single ride. We had a generous 2.5-hour ride. The couple who paid Rs. 1200 had just over one hour of ride. We also got to spot more attractions on the trip than the couple did. It was totally worth it!
Timings
Timings for shikara rides vary between summer and winter season. During the summer months, Shikara rides are from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm. During the winter months the timing is from 10: 00 am to 6:00 pm.
Tourists Points You Can Spot on a Shikara Ride in Dal Lake
If the gentle glide of the shikara ride was not enough to make your experience incredible, there is more! Here are the amazing tourist attractions or “points” as they say, that you can spot and check out while on a shikara ride in Dal Lake.
Char Chinar: Char Chinar is the name of an island in Dal Lake with four majestic chinar trees that are centuries old.
Taj Vivanta Hotel: While you may not get to see Dal Lake from Taj Vivanta Srinagar, you can spot the luxury resort from your shikara on Dal Lake.
Floating Market: The Floating Market is one of the most iconic attractions of the Shikara ride experience on Dal Lake. As you gently sway on the lake, you will be greeted by several shopkeepers on their own boats with things as varying as fruits, flowers, Kahwa tea, and antiques. Much further into the lake, you will even get to visit restaurants, emporiums, and papier mache handicraft shops in the floating market.
Hazratbal Shrine: Hazratbal Shrine is a sacred mosque in the heart of Srinagar that is believed to have the hair of Prophet Muhammad as a holy relic. The reflection of the white marbles of the shrine on Dal Lake makes for stunning photographs.
Hari Parbat: Hari Parbat is a hill with a Fort built by the Afghan Dynasty in the 18th century. The hill is also home to a temple, gurdwara, and a mosque. You can see the walls of the fort while riding on a shikara in Dal Lake.
Shankaracharya Temple: You can spot the silhouettes of Shankaracharya Temple perched atop the Shankaracharya hill.
Houseboat Docks: The luxurious houseboats lining the shores of Dal Lake are floating masterpieces adorned with intricate woodcarvings and vibrant Kashmiri textiles. Check out these photographs for yourself!
Best Time for Shikara Ride in Dal Lake
The best time for shikara ride in Dal Lake is in the evening so that you can watch the sun set into the depths of this serene lake.
If you are visiting in the summer months or on a sunny day, avoid the 11:00 am to 3:00 pm slot as the glare from the sun reflected on the lake may make you dizzy. Even though, the shikara has a roof, it doesn’t help with sun protection as the harsh rays may hit you at an angle. You can carry an umbrella or have the curtains partially drawn for some respite.
We did our shikara ride between 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on a warm April day. And as I was madly clicking photos, I didn’t draw the curtain. By the time we finished, I felt like I would pass out and fall into the lake! It was that sunny.
FAQs on Shikara Ride in Dal Lake
Here are more questions on shikara ride in Srinagar answered for your information.
How Many People Can Sit in a Shikara?
A shikara in Srinagar can technically seat 6 passengers, and a peddler who sits at the end of boat and rows the shikara. However, note that they can seat four adults and up to two children when they say six passengers. If there are more than four adults, you will have to hire a second shikara.
Note: You ride on the shikara without lifejackets. This is crazy considering Dal Lake is 20 feet deep at its deepest points. Although, the peddler carries the lifejackets on the boat! If you are with children, have them sit in the middle, just to be safe.
Is Houseboat same as Shikara?
No, houseboat and Shikara are two very different type of Kashmir heritage experience. A shikara is an open boat that you ride for a short distance, primarily for transportation. On the other hand, a houseboat is a stationary boat docked on lakes where you can spend the night.
Houseboats typically have bedrooms, a common area, and toilets. They are also very ornate with wooden carvings and lavish carpets to give you a luxurious feel.
Shikara or Houseboat Which is Better?
If you asked me to pick between shikara and houseboat experiences in Srinagar, I would choose shikara any day. The main reason for this that the houseboats in Srinagar are stationary. It is good to stay in the houseboat for one night just for the experience, but there is so much more to the added experiences that a shikara ride would do.
But cost wise, a shikara ride would sound more expensive that a houseboat stay. A two-hour shikara ride for four would cost around RS. 2000-3000, but an overnight stay in houseboat for four, including the breakfast, would cost you Rs. 4500 for the most affordable ones.
Conclusion
As the sun sets behind the majestic peaks of the Himalayas, casting a golden glow upon the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, our Shikara ride comes to an end. But the memories we’ve collected along the way will linger in our hearts forever. From the vibrant floating markets to the serenity of the lake at dusk, each moment has been a testament to the beauty and richness of Kashmiri heritage. So, the next time you find yourself in this paradise on earth, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a Shikara ride on Dal Lake—a journey of a lifetime that promises to leave you enchanted and rejuvenated.
