Uber Shikara: The New Way to Explore Srinagar’s Dal Lake – Book Your Ride Now
Uber made history on Monday by launching India’s first-ever water transport service, Uber Shikara, offering tourists the convenience of booking traditional shikara rides on Dal Lake in Srinagar through the Uber app. This new initiative is aimed at enhancing the tourism experience while simultaneously supporting local shikara drivers in Jammu and Kashmir.
Blending Technology with Tradition
Uber Shikara is designed to combine modern technology with traditional boat rides, offering a seamless experience for tourists looking to explore the picturesque Dal Lake. Prabhjeet Singh, President of Uber India and South Asia, expressed the company’s excitement about the new service. He said, "Uber Shikara is our humble attempt to blend technology and tradition to give a seamless experience to travelers for their shikara ride. We are proud to create this iconic experience, enhancing accessibility and uplifting tourism in the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir."
This service is not only a significant move for tourism in India but also marks a milestone for Uber globally, as the water transport service is the first of its kind in Asia. Uber has previously offered water transport services in European cities like Venice, Italy, but this marks a new chapter in India’s tourism sector.
Uber Shikara's Role in Supporting Local Economy
With the launch of Uber Shikara, Uber aims to provide a convenient, digital solution to pre-book shikara rides while ensuring that local shikara drivers benefit economically. Uber has started by onboarding seven shikaras and plans to expand the fleet as the service gains traction. Uber’s spokesperson confirmed that the service is aligned with government-determined rates, and the entire payment made by tourists will go directly to the shikara drivers without any extra fees charged by Uber.
Wali Mohammad Bhatt, President of the Shikara Owners Association, shared his optimism about the service. He believes Uber’s presence will help bring more business to shikara operators by eliminating bargaining and ensuring fixed rates. Bhatt stated, "Uber service will boost shikara operators' business, as the app will facilitate the booking of boats at fixed rates, providing relief to tourists and creating a more reliable experience."
Booking an Uber Shikara Ride
Tourists interested in experiencing the beauty of Dal Lake on a shikara can now book their ride via the Uber app. Here’s how:
Ensure that your Uber app is updated to the latest version.
Open the app and enter "Shikara Ghat No. 16" as both the start and end location.
Select Uber Shikara from the available ride options.
Choose the time and date for your ride (available between 10 AM and 5 PM).
Confirm your pick-up location at Ghat 16.
Click "Book" and get ready for a scenic and relaxing ride on Dal Lake.
Each Uber Shikara ride lasts for one hour and can be booked up to 15 days in advance. The rides are available from 10 AM to 5 PM, allowing up to four passengers per shikara.
A New Chapter in Srinagar’s Tourism Industry
Uber’s entry into the water transport sector is a game-changer for both the tourism industry and local shikara operators. By leveraging the power of technology, Uber has brought a modern touch to an age-old tradition, making it easier and more accessible for tourists to explore the serene beauty of Dal Lake. With the promise of a more convenient, transparent, and enjoyable experience, Uber Shikara is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors to the region, all while supporting the local economy.
As Uber continues to expand its services, the company’s new initiative serves as an example of how technology can play a significant role in preserving traditions and creating new opportunities for growth in local communities.
