Shikara riding in Kashmir

Shikara Boat

The Shikara is a small floating
marvel, a wooden ship that floats around the lakes of Kashmir. It is an iconic and signature symbol of Kashmir. Every year thousands of tourists visit Kashmir and everyone takes a Shikara ride on the famous lakes of the valley. They come in various sizes and are decorated beautifully. They were mostly used for transportation in the olden days, but nowadays joy rides for tourist are quite common in the Shikara. About six people can fit in one Shikara excluding the driver who sits at one end of the boat. Besides the tourist, they are also used for fishing, harvesting aquatic plants, transporting along the lake or to the houseboat and also as houses by poor people. 

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Shikara riding in Kashmir is one of the major tourist attractions. People from different parts of the country and world come here to experience this cultural symbol of Kashmir. It is romantic, it is adventurous and one of the best experiences one can ever have in their life. The most popular lakes famous for Shikara rides in Kashmir are the Dal Lake and the Nageen Lake in Srinagar. It provides you with a soothing and relaxing experience that you will not be able to forget your whole life. Even though these rides are not risky as the boats men are quite experienced, precaution is always better than cure. Hence while riding a Shikara it is always best to be seated properly, not to stand and remain calm. The scenery around may be breathtaking and tempting that might make you erupt in joy, however the best way to observe and experience it is by observing it peacefully. Only then you can have the true essence of the ride. You can also shop while taking a Shikara ride or go to the famous Nishat and Shalimar gardens or the Hazratbal mosque in a Shikara on the Dal lake . It is the centre of tourist activity in Srinagar. It is also the best way to observe the surrounding flora and fauna and spot the different kinds of birds and aquatic plants and animals that forms a part of the eco system. 

Hazratbal mosque and Dal Lake

The best time to visit Kashmir and take a Shikara ride is during the months of March to October. During this time the days will be cool, sunny and pleasant, with perfect temperature, hence the Shikara ride along the lakes will be perfect. The clear sunny days give ample opportunity for a tourist to enjoy the surrounding beauty of the place. Winter is not the best time for a Shikara ride because the whole place will be covered with snow and sometimes the lake freezes. One of the most attractive packages that you can avail of is the two hour long Shikara boat ride, especially meant for the tourists. This ride will give you a complete tour of the lakes, including the interior parts and lets you have the best moment of your holiday. A holiday is Kashmir is nothing less than a trip to heaven.