Shikara ride on Dal Lake
Experience a peaceful, iconic boat ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar — glide past houseboats, floating gardens and the lively floating market aboard a traditional wooden shikara steered by a local boatman. The ride is a gentle mix of sightseeing, cultural immersion and superb photography opportunities, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
Location
Dal Lake (main ghats: Nagin, Nagin, Raj Bagh, Boulevard, Hazratbal access points), Srinagar, India
Duration
Typical durations: 30 minutes — 3 hours (most visitors choose a 1-hour ride). Private full-day/half-day options available when combined with Mughal Gardens / Char Chinar visits.
Best Time to Visit
April to October for mild weather, blooming gardens and active floating markets. Sunrise (early morning) and sunset rides offer the best light for photography. Winter rides are possible but colder and less active; heavy winter conditions may limit access.
Pricing
Approximate prices (subject to bargaining & season):
- Short ride (30 minutes): INR 300–600 per shikara
- Standard ride (1 hour): INR 600–1,200 per shikara
- Extended/private tour (2–3 hours or customized): INR 1,200–3,000+ per shikara Notes: Prices are often quoted per shikara (fits 3–4 people comfortably). Use cash and always confirm the price before boarding.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Floating Market — vendors on small boats selling vegetables, flowers and local produce
Houseboats and Shikaras — traditional Kashmiri architecture and local living on the water
Char Chinar — small island with iconic chinar trees (visible on longer rides)
Mughal Gardens views — Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh seen from the lake edges
Lotus and water-lily fields — colorful seasonal blooms
Stunning sunrise/sunset photography — reflections of mountains and sky
Itinerary
Boarding and short orientation
Confirm fare, negotiate any stops, and request a life jacket if available. Choose seat for best photography (center/rear).
Cruise past houseboats, floating market and lotus beds
Listen to the boatman's local stories — they often point out landmarks and offer photo opportunities.
Viewpoints & optional short stop
On 1–2 hour rides expect closer views of Mughal Gardens and Char Chinar; some tours include a brief stop at a houseboat for tea.
Extended/private option — visit Char Chinar island and lesser-known inlets
Longer rides allow exploration of quieter sections of the lake and more time in the floating market.
Safety Requirements
Life jackets recommended — ask the boatman before departure
Avoid standing or sudden movements in a small shikara; keep weight balanced
Do not overload the shikara beyond recommended passenger limit
Avoid rides in high winds, heavy rain or poor visibility — check weather first
Keep personal belongings secure and dry (use waterproof pouches for electronics)
Tips
Bargain politely and fix the price (and route/duration) before boarding
Prefer early morning or late afternoon for cooler air and better light
Carry small change (cash) — many boatmen don't accept cards
Tip the boatman if service is good (typical tip: 10%–20% of fare or INR 50–200)
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket for mornings/evenings
Use a waterproof bag for cameras/phones; bring extra batteries or power bank
Respect local customs: avoid intrusive photography of people without asking
Try Kashmiri kahwa (tea) on a houseboat if offered — a pleasant cultural add-on
Book through your hotel or a reputable operator for safety and fair pricing, especially for longer/private trips
If you want quieter experience, request routes away from the main floating market and crowded ghats
