- A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is the classic Srinagar experience.
- A Shikara is a wooden rowboat used on the lake.
- Sunset rides have the best light and calmest water.
- One ride is often complimentary in packages; extra time is charged.
A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is the image most people carry of Kashmir, and it lives up to it. Gliding across the water past floating gardens and houseboats is the quintessential Srinagar experience.
This guide explains what to expect, when to go, and how much it costs.
What is a Shikara ride on Dal Lake?
A gentle trip across the lake in a Shikara, a carved wooden rowboat.
The Shikara is to Dal Lake what the gondola is to Venice: a canopied, cushioned boat rowed by a local boatman. It is the slow, scenic way to see the lake.
What do you see from a Shikara?
Houseboats, floating gardens and markets, and the Zabarwan hills.
Depending on the route, you pass lotus gardens, floating vegetable sellers, handicraft shops on the water and the famous houseboat rows.
When is the best time for a Shikara ride?
Late afternoon or sunset, for the softest light and calmest water.
Early morning is also magical, especially for the floating vegetable market, which starts around sunrise and is over by 7 AM.
How much does a Shikara ride cost?
One ride is often complimentary in packages; longer or extra rides are paid directly.
Rates are set locally; agree the duration and price before you set off. General information is on the J&K Department of Tourism.
Add a houseboat stay
Pair your ride with a night on the water. See our Dal Lake houseboat guide.
Have a question about planning your trip? Message us on WhatsApp or contact our Kashmir team for a free itinerary.
