If you are planning to visit Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, you cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a shikara ride in Dal Lake. A shikara is a traditional wooden boat that glides smoothly on the serene waters of the lake, offering you a glimpse of the natural and cultural beauty of Kashmir. A shikara ride in Srinagar is one of the most popular and unique attractions in the region, and a must-do activity for any visitor.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to experience the magic of Dal Lake with a shikara ride in Srinagar. We will cover everything you need to know, such as how to book a shikara ride, where to enjoy a shikara ride, when to enjoy a shikara ride, what to see and do with a shikara ride, and what to know before and after a shikara ride. By the end of this article, you will be ready to book your shikara ride in Srinagar and have an unforgettable experience.
How to Book a Shikara Ride in Srinagar
There are two ways to book a shikara ride in Srinagar: online or offline. If you want to book a shikara ride online, you can use various websites and apps that offer shikara ride booking services, such as Tripoto, MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip, etc. These platforms allow you to compare the prices, ratings, reviews, and availability of different shikara operators and choose the best one for your needs. You can also pay online and get a confirmation and voucher for your shikara ride.
If you want to book a shikara ride offline, you can visit any of the ghats (terminals) along the banks of Dal Lake, where you will find many shikara operators waiting for customers. You can negotiate the price, duration, and route of your shikara ride with them and pay them in cash. However, be aware that the offline booking process can be more time-consuming, chaotic, and expensive than the online booking process.
Some of the factors that you should consider while booking a shikara ride in Srinagar are:
The cost of a shikara ride: The official rate of a shikara ride in Srinagar is Rs. 400 per hour for a maximum of four people. However, the actual rate may vary depending on the season, demand, location, and bargaining skills. You can expect to pay anywhere between Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 per hour for a shikara ride. You can also ask for a discount if you book for a longer duration or in a group.
The duration of a shikara ride: The duration of a shikara ride in Srinagar depends on your preference and budget. You can book a shikara ride for as short as 15 minutes or as long as 4 hours. The average duration of a shikara ride is around 2 hours, which is enough to cover the main attractions and enjoy the scenery of Dal Lake.
The route of a shikara ride: The route of a shikara ride in Srinagar depends on the location of your starting point and the places you want to visit. You can choose to explore the inner or outer parts of Dal Lake, or both. The inner part of Dal Lake is more crowded and lively, with many houseboats, floating markets, gardens, and mosques. The outer part of Dal Lake is more peaceful and scenic, with many islands, lotus fields, and bird sanctuaries. You can also customize your route according to your interests and preferences.
Where to Enjoy a Shikara Ride in Srinagar
There are many locations and ghats where you can enjoy a shikara ride in Srinagar, but the most popular and convenient one is Dal Lake. Dal Lake is the largest and most famous lake in Srinagar, and the main attraction of the city. It is also known as the “Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir” and the “Lake of Flowers” for its stunning beauty and diversity. Dal Lake covers an area of 18 square kilometers and has a shoreline of 15.5 kilometers.
Dal Lake is divided into four basins:
Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, and Nagin. Each basin has its own charm and features, and you can explore them with a shikara ride. Some of the best points for shikara ride in Srinagar are:
Dal Gate:
This is the main entrance to Dal Lake and the most popular point for shikara ride in Srinagar. It is located near the city center and has a large number of shikara operators and houseboats. It is also close to many attractions, such as Shankaracharya Temple, Hari Parbat Fort, and Lal Chowk. Dal Gate is ideal for those who want to enjoy the hustle and bustle of Dal Lake and see the main sights.
Ghat No. 7:
This is another popular point for shikara ride in Srinagar, located near the Boulevard Road and the Nehru Park. It is less crowded and more peaceful than Dal Gate, and has a beautiful view of the Zabarwan Mountains. It is also close to many attractions, such as Nishat and Shalimar gardens, Hazratbal Mosque, and Chashme Shahi. Ghat No. 7 is ideal for those who want to enjoy the natural and cultural beauty of Dal Lake and see the famous gardens and mosques.
Hotel Centaur:
This is a luxury hotel located on the banks of Dal Lake, near the Srinagar Airport. It has its own private ghat and shikara operators, and offers a premium and exclusive shikara ride experience. It is also close to many attractions, such as Char Chinar, Ropa Lank, and Sona Lank. Hotel Centaur is ideal for those who want to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious shikara ride and see the islands and landmarks of Dal Lake.
Nishat Bagh:
This is one of the most beautiful and famous gardens in Srinagar, located on the eastern shore of Dal Lake. It has its own ghat and shikara operators, and offers a scenic and serene shikara ride experience. It is also close to many attractions, such as Shalimar Bagh, Tulip Garden, and Botanical Garden. Nishat Bagh is ideal for those who want to enjoy a relaxing and romantic shikara ride and see the flowers and gardens of Dal Lake.
Ghat No. 23:
This is a hidden and secluded point for shikara ride in Srinagar, located on the western shore of Dal Lake. It is less frequented and more peaceful than the other points, and offers a tranquil and authentic shikara ride experience. It is also close to many attractions, such as Nigeen Lake, Hari Parbat, and Jamia Masjid. Ghat No. 23 is ideal for those who want to enjoy a quiet and adventurous shikara ride and see the other side of Dal Lake.
When to Enjoy a Shikara Ride in Srinagar
The best time to enjoy a shikara ride in Srinagar is in the morning or evening, during the summer or winter season. Each time and season has its own advantages and disadvantages, and you can choose the one that suits your preference and mood.
Morning or evening:
The morning or evening time is the best time to enjoy a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the weather is pleasant, the lake is calm, and the views are spectacular.
You can witness the sunrise or sunset over the lake, and see the changing colors of the sky and the water. You can also enjoy the cool breeze, the chirping of the birds, and the sound of the oars. The morning or evening time is ideal for those who want to enjoy the beauty and romance of Dal Lake and capture some amazing photos.
Summer or winter:
The summer or winter season is the best season to enjoy a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the lake is full of life and activity, and the scenery is diverse and stunning. You can see the different flowers and fruits that bloom and grow on the lake, such as lotus, water lily, water chestnut, almond, cherry, etc.
You can also see the different festivals and events that take place on the lake, such as Tulip Festival, Shikara Festival, Ice Skating Festival, etc. The summer or winter season is ideal for those who want to enjoy the culture and fun of Dal Lake and experience some unique and memorable moments.
What to See and Do with a Shikara Ride in Srinagar
There are many things to see and do with a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the lake is a treasure trove of attractions and activities. You can visit the various places and landmarks that are located on or near the lake, such as gardens, mosques, parks, islands, etc. You can also enjoy the various activities and experiences that are offered on or around the lake, such as bird watching, houseboat tours, shopping, etc. Here are some of the things that you can see and do with a shikara ride in Srinagar:
Visit the gardens:
One of the most popular and beautiful things to see with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to visit the gardens that are located on the eastern shore of the lake. These gardens are the Mughal gardens, which were built by the Mughal emperors in the 16th and 17th centuries. They are known for their exquisite architecture, landscaping, fountains, and flowers. Some of the most famous Mughal gardens are Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, and Pari Mahal. You can reach these gardens by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and enjoy their beauty and history.
Visit the mosques:
Another popular and sacred thing to see with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to visit the mosques that are located on or near the lake. These mosques are the Islamic places of worship, which were built by the Muslim rulers and saints in the past centuries. They are known for their elegant architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual atmosphere. Some of the most famous mosques are Hazratbal Mosque, Jamia Masjid, Khanqah of Shah Hamadan, and Dastgeer Sahib. You can reach these mosques by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and admire their beauty and sanctity.
Visit the parks:
Another enjoyable and relaxing thing to do with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to visit the parks that are located on or near the lake. These parks are the public places of recreation, which were developed by the government and the private sector in the recent years. They are known for their greenery, facilities, and activities. Some of the most famous parks are Nehru Park, Tulip Garden, Botanical Garden, and Zabarwan Park. You can reach these parks by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and have fun and leisure.
Visit the islands:
Another fascinating and adventurous thing to do with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to visit the islands that are located on the lake. These islands are the natural or artificial formations, which are surrounded by water and have various attractions and features. Some of the most famous islands are Char Chinar, Ropa Lank, Sona Lank, and Meena Bazaar. You can reach these islands by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and explore their charm and mystery.
Enjoy the bird watching:
Another amazing and rewarding thing to do with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to enjoy the bird watching on the lake. The lake is home to many species of birds, both resident and migratory, which can be seen in different seasons and locations. Some of the most common birds are kingfishers, herons, egrets, ducks, geese, gulls, terns, etc. You can enjoy the bird watching by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and observe their behavior and beauty.
Enjoy the houseboat tours:
Another luxurious and exclusive thing to do with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to enjoy the houseboat tours on the lake. A houseboat is a floating accommodation that is equipped with all the modern amenities and facilities. It is a perfect way to experience the lifestyle and culture of Kashmir. You can enjoy the houseboat tours by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and stay in one of the houseboats for a night or more.
Enjoy the shopping:
Another fun and exciting thing to do with a shikara ride in Srinagar is to enjoy the shopping on the lake. The lake has many floating markets and shops, which sell various items and products, such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, handicrafts, souvenirs, etc. You can enjoy the shopping by a shikara ride from any of the ghats, and buy some of the local and special things of Kashmir.
What to Know Before and After a Shikara Ride in Srinagar
There are some essential tips and advice that you should know before and after a shikara ride in Srinagar, to make your experience more enjoyable and safe. Here are some of them:
What to wear:
You should wear comfortable and appropriate clothes for a shikara ride in Srinagar, depending on the weather and season. You should also wear sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. You should also carry a jacket or a shawl to keep yourself warm in case of cold or wind.
What to carry:
You should carry some essentials for a shikara ride in Srinagar, such as water, snacks, camera, binoculars, etc. You should also carry some cash, as most of the shikara operators and vendors do not accept cards or online payments. You should also carry some identification documents, such as passport, visa, etc., in case of any security check or emergency.
What to avoid:
You should avoid some things for a shikara ride in Srinagar, such as littering, smoking, drinking, etc. You should also avoid overloading or overcrowding the shikara, as it may cause imbalance or accident. You should also avoid touching or feeding the birds or animals on the lake, as it may disturb or harm them.
How to bargain:
You should bargain for a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the shikara operators may charge you more than the official or reasonable rate. You should ask for the rate before boarding the shikara, and compare it with the other operators or the online platforms. You should also negotiate the duration, route, and places of your shikara ride, and agree on a final price before starting the ride.
How to tip:
You should tip for a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the shikara operators work hard and depend on the tips for their livelihood. You should tip according to the quality and satisfaction of your shikara ride, and the courtesy and professionalism of your shikara operator. You can tip anywhere between 10% to 20% of the total cost of your shikara ride, or more if you are very happy and impressed.
How to stay safe:
You should stay safe for a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the lake may have some risks and hazards, such as pollution, infection, accident, etc. You should follow the instructions and guidelines of your shikara operator, and wear a life jacket if provided. You should also avoid leaning or standing on the shikara, as it may cause instability or fall. You should also keep an eye on your belongings, and report any suspicious or illegal activity to the authorities.
How to respect the environment:
You should respect the environment for a shikara ride in Srinagar, as the lake is a precious and fragile ecosystem, which needs to be preserved and protected. You should not throw any waste or garbage into the lake, or use any harmful or toxic substances on the lake. You should also not damage or disturb any plant or animal on the lake, or interfere with any natural or cultural feature on the lake. You should also support and appreciate the efforts and initiatives of the local people and organizations to conserve and restore the lake.
A shikara ride in Srinagar is a complete guide to experience the magic of Dal Lake, one of the most beautiful and famous attractions in Kashmir. It is a wonderful way to explore the natural and cultural diversity of the region, and have some fun and memorable moments. You can book a shikara ride online or offline, and choose the best time, location, and duration for your shikara ride.
Tripoto offers you the best deals and discounts, the best ratings and reviews, and the best customer service and support for your shikara ride. You can also find many other travel guides and packages for Srinagar and Kashmir on Tripoto, and plan your perfect trip with Tripoto.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your shikara ride in Srinagar with Tripoto today, and experience the magic of Dal Lake.
