A shikara is a traditional boat in Kashmir that allows people to explore the majestic beauty of Dal Lake. The Shikara ride is among the most popular things to do in Srinagar. It offers glimpses of the rich cultural heritage and exquisite beauty of the valley at its best.
During the Shikara ride, you can visit some famous places in Srinagar, including Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh, and Hazratbal Shrine. Dal Lake is the major place where tourists can enjoy the Shikara ride in Srinagar, and apart from this, Nigeen Lake is another lake where the Shikara ride can be enjoyed. With the backdrop of snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain ranges, the Shikara ride amidst the serene ambiance of the lakes offers a unique experience. The spellbinding views of sunrise and sunset make the ride cherishable.
What to Know Before You Go Shikara Ride in Dal Lake
- Location: Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir
- Type of Destination: Boating and sightseeing
- Opening Hours of Shikara Ride: 7 AM to 9 PM
- Fare for Shikara Ride: INR 550 per person (1-hour), INR 800 (2-hours), and INR 1050 (3-hours)
- Duration: 1 – 3 hours
How to reach for Shikara Ride
Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake are the two prominent places for Shikara rides. They are located in the heart of Srinagar and are easily accessible from the major places of the valley. The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul Alam International Airport, which is situated 21 km away from the lakes. In addition, the country's major cities receive numerous direct and connecting flights. Tourists can hire a cab from the airport and main bus stand or board a shares taxi to reach the lake.
Best Time to visit for Shikara Ride
The summer season is the best time to visit for a Shikara ride when the pleasant climatic conditions of the region make the boating and Shikara ride memorable. May to November is the perfect time for the sightseeing tour and refreshing experience. Besides this, a unique experience is associated with the Shikara ride, including bird watching, houseboat tours, and boating that can best be enjoyed this season. During winters, the lake becomes extremely cold and freezes down, making it perfect for ice-skating and not for Shikara rides. So, summers are the preferable Time for a Shikara ride.
Major Highlights of Shikara Ride
- Shikaras are traditionally built boats from wood and decorated with intricate décor and Kashmiri woven carpets and rugs.
- Equipped with top-notch facilities and provide world-class hospitality.
- Explore popular attractions of Srinagar during the Shikara ride.
- Witness the glorious sunrise and sunset during the Shikara ride with the backdrop of snow-covered Himalayas.
Places to visit with Shikara Ride
During the Shikara rides, tourists can explore numerous tourist attractions in Srinagar near lakes that can make the Kashmir trip cherishable. Several hotels, eateries, and shops are located on the edge of the lake, where tourists can visit during the Shikara ride. Some of the famous spots in Srinagar to explore during the Shikara ride are:
- Dal Lake
- Nigeen Lake
- Shalimar Bagh
- Hazratbal Shrine
- Nishat Bagh
Hotels to Stay in Srinagar during Shikara Ride
Shikara rides can be best enjoyed during the day while partaking in numerous activities. Tourists visiting for Shikara rides can find multiple staying options in Srinagar near the lakes. A wide range of resorts can cater to the different interests of tourists. Take a look at the list:
- Mascot Houseboats
- Chicago Group of Houseboats
- Hotel Grand Boulevard
- Fortune Resort Heevan
- Centaur Lake View Hotel
- Hotel Grand Mahal
- Taj Palace Houseboat
- Paradise Gateway
Shikara Ride in Srinagar is an experience you must include on your tour. You can plan your holiday in this lovely city through our tour packages. So, book your tour and customize the vacation as per your desire with the help of our tour experts.
