Book Shikara Ride in Dal Lake Srinagar
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Book Shikara ride in Dal lake Srinagar Kashmir
Planning a Shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar? A Shikara is one of the best ways to experience Dal Lake from the water with views of traditional houseboats, floating gardens, lake channels and the surrounding mountains.
With Travel My Kashmir, you can book a Shikara ride online in advance and receive your ride duration, total price, boarding Ghat and booking details before you arrive.
To book your Shikara ride in Dal Lake online today with Travel My Kashmir! Visit our website or call/WhatsApp us at 9796466052 for instant booking at the best rates. Enjoy a hassle-free booking experience and explore the serene beauty of Dal Lake in comfort.
Shikara Points in Dal lake Kashmir
| Shikara ride Duration | Shikara points |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, PirPanjal view |
| 2 hours | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, Pir Panjal view Floating Market/Meena Bazar, Shikara Vendors |
| 3 hours | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, PirPanjal view, Nehru park, Kabootar khana, Floating Market/Meena Bazar, Floating Cafeteria, Shikara Vendors |
Shikara ride price in dal lake 2026
The current Government approved Shikara ride rate starts at ₹770 per Shikara for the first hour. Each additional standard hour is ₹440 per Shikara.
The price is for the whole boat, not for each passenger. For example, if four adults share a one-hour Shikara at ₹770, the cost works out to about ₹193 per person.
NOTE : Per hour pricing is Not valid for Char Chinar , Early Morning Floating Vegetable Market.
Current Standard Shikara Rates
| Ride Duration | Price per Shikara |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | ₹770 |
| 2 hours | ₹1,210 |
| 3 hours | ₹1,650 |
| Longer/custom ride | Confirm before booking |
| Char Chinar / special route | Confirm route-specific price |
| Early-morning floating vegetable market | Special early-morning booking; confirm price |
| Book Now | +919796466052 |
The standard hourly calculation is:
₹770 for the first hour + ₹440 for each additional hour.
So:
2 hours = ₹770 + ₹440 = ₹1,210
3 hours = ₹770 + ₹440 + ₹440 = ₹1,650
Special routes should not be assumed to follow the standard hourly rate. This includes Char Chinar and the early-morning floating vegetable market, which may require a different route, duration or fare.
Also check: 5 myths about Shikara ride in Dal lake
Shikara ride cost for 1 hour
The cost for a one-hour shikara ride is Rs. 770 per boat. To book a shikara ride, you can visit the Travel My Kashmir website or call us directly at any time.
Shikara ride cost for 2 hours
The 2-hour Shikara ride price on Dal Lake is ₹1,210 per boat. The first hour costs ₹770 per boat while the second hour costs an additional ₹440.
The total price for a 2-hour Shikara ride is:
₹770 (first hour) + ₹440 (second hour) = ₹1,210 per boat.
So, if you are planning a 2-hour Shikara ride on Dal Lake the total cost is ₹1,210 per boat.
Shikara ride cost for 3 hours
The 3-hour Shikara ride price on Dal Lake is ₹1,650 per boat. The first hour costs ₹770 per boat, while each additional hour costs ₹440.
The total price for a 3-hour Shikara ride is:
₹770 (first hour) + ₹440 (second hour) + ₹440 (third hour) = ₹1,650 per boat.
So, if you are planning a 3-hour Shikara ride on Dal Lake the total cost is ₹1,650 per boat.
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Is the Shikara Ride Price Per Person or Per Boat?
The standard price is quoted per Shikara boat, not per person.
For a four-adult group:
- 1 hour at ₹770 = about ₹193 per person
- 2 hours at ₹1,210 = about ₹303 per person
- 3 hours at ₹1,650 = about ₹413 per person
The exact number of passengers should be confirmed when booking because seating and operating arrangements can vary.
Online Shikara booking Srinagar by Travel My Kashmir
- Visit our website or use our dedicated booking platform.
- Select your preferred shikara ride package and schedule.
- Confirm your booking and enjoy a memorable journey on Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake.
1 - Choose a date
We have a fleet of Shikara at all bays or known as Ghats locally. Just select a feasible date.
2 - Book your slot
Choose a time slot as per your convenience for Shikara ride Dal lake. The sunsets and sunrise are amazing.
3 - Confirmation
Mention the rest details and click "Reserve" we will send a confirmation msg on the same details.
What is Shikara Ride in Dal Lake Srinagar, Kashmir
A Shikara ride in Dal Lake is one of the most popular experiences in Srinagar offering a relaxed way to explore the lake, its houseboats, floating gardens and traditional waterways. Depending on your route and ride duration, you may pass places such as Char Chinar, Nehru Park and floating markets, while early-morning rides can offer a closer look at the lake’s daily activity.
A Shikara is a traditional Kashmiri wooden boat used for tourism and local transport. It is designed to glide smoothly across the water with a covered seating area that makes the ride comfortable in different weather conditions. Your boatman rows the Shikara through the quieter channels of Dal Lake giving you time to enjoy the scenery and observe everyday life around the lake.
For a first visit, 1–2 hours is generally enough for a standard Dal Lake Shikara ride. Longer rides are suitable when you want to explore more of the lake, visit additional spots or spend more time taking photographs. Current Shikara fares start at around ₹770 for the first hour, with longer rides priced according to the duration and route.
As you move across Dal Lake, you may see fishermen, floating vendors, houseboats and local families going about their daily activities. This combination of scenery and everyday Kashmiri life is what makes a Shikara ride more than simply a boat trip.
Also check : Top 5 places to visit on a shikara ride
Dal Lake Shikaras in Bollywood
Dal Lake’s houseboats and Shikaras have featured in Bollywood films for decades, helping introduce Kashmir’s lake life to audiences across India. Films such as Jab Jab Phool Khile (1965), Haider (2014) and Raazi (2018) featured Srinagar and its iconic lake landscapes. During an early-morning Shikara ride, your boatman may also point out locations that have appeared in films and other productions filmed around Dal Lake.
Our Reviews
What Can You See During a Shikara Ride?
The exact points covered depend on the Ghat, route and duration you book. A longer ride does not automatically mean that every attraction on Dal Lake is included.
1-Hour Shikara Ride
A one-hour ride is suitable for travellers who want a shorter introduction to Dal Lake.
Depending on the route, you can enjoy:
- Open views of Dal Lake
- Houseboats and lake-side life
- Floating gardens
- Mountain views
- Nearby floating activity
2-Hour Shikara Ride
A two-hour ride gives you more time on the water and allows a wider sightseeing route.
Depending on the selected route, it may include:
- Floating gardens
- Meena Bazaar
- Floating vendor boats
- Houseboat areas
- Inner sections of the lake
- Nehru Park or other route points where applicable
3-Hour Shikara Ride
A three-hour ride is better for travellers who want a more relaxed experience and additional sightseeing time.
Depending on the route, it may include:
- Nehru Park
- Kabootar Khana
- Floating gardens
- Meena Bazaar
- Floating vendor areas
- Wider sections of Dal Lake
Char Chinar and the Floating Vegetable Market
Char Chinar and the early-morning floating vegetable market should not be assumed to be included in a standard hourly ride.
These experiences require route and timing arrangements in advance.
When booking, tell us specifically if you want:
- Char Chinar
- Floating vegetable market
- Sunrise ride
- Sunset ride
- A longer sightseeing route
We will confirm whether the requested route is available and provide the applicable price.
Shikara Ride Timings on Dal Lake
Shikara ride timing depends on the season, daylight, weather conditions, route and boat availability.
For general planning, Travel My Kashmir currently uses:
Season General booking/operating window
Summer Approximately 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Winter Approximately 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
These are general planning timings, not a guarantee that every route operates throughout the entire window. Actual departure time should be confirmed when you book.
Best Time for a Shikara Ride
The best time depends on what you want to experience.
Early morning: Best for a quiet lake and the floating vegetable market. This requires a special early departure and should be booked in advance.
Morning: Good for general sightseeing and photography.
Afternoon: Suitable for a regular Dal Lake ride when you want a flexible sightseeing slot.
Evening: Popular for sunset, soft light and photography.
Sunrise and sunset times change throughout the year, so choose your exact departure time when booking. Get more details here : Best time for a shikara ride in dal lake
Where Do You Board a Shikara on Dal Lake?
Shikara rides operate from several Ghats around Dal Lake.
Your exact boarding point should be confirmed before the ride because the Ghat can depend on:
- Your selected route
- Boat availability
- Where you are staying
- Whether you are staying on a houseboat
- The type of ride you have booked
After confirmation, Travel My Kashmir will provide your boarding Ghat and other booking details.
If you are staying on a houseboat, ask us about the most convenient Shikara arrangement from your houseboat location.
How to Book a Shikara Ride Online in Srinagar
To book a shikara ride online, visit our website and fill out the booking form or call/WhatsApp us at +91 9796466052. You can also email us with your details. After successful payment, you will receive a confirmation email and a WhatsApp message with complete details, including the shikara boatman’s contact and Ghat number.
If you still have any issues regarding your shikara ride in Dal Lake, feel free to contact us anytime, 24×7.
Shikara Ride With a Houseboat Stay
A Shikara and a Dal Lake houseboat serve different purposes.
A Shikara is a small wooden boat used for sightseeing and lake transportation, while a houseboat is a floating accommodation where you can stay overnight.
If you are staying on a houseboat, a Shikara can also be useful for reaching the boat from the shore and for exploring the lake around your accommodation.
Know more here : Shikara ride vs Houseboat stay
Dal Lake Shikara Ride: Practical Tips Before You Book
Before getting into the boat, confirm these four things:
1. Total price
Ask for the complete price for your selected duration and route.
2. Ride duration
Make sure you and the boatman agree on the start and end duration before departure.
3. Route
Ask whether Char Chinar, the floating vegetable market or any other special point is actually included.
4. Boarding Ghat
Keep the confirmed Ghat number and contact details with you.
Sunrise Shikara Ride and Floating Vegetable Market
The floating vegetable market is a different experience from a normal daytime Shikara ride.
The market is active early in the morning, when local sellers and buyers move across the lake by boat. If this is one of your priorities, do not book a normal afternoon or evening Shikara and expect the market to be operating.
Tell us at the time of booking that you want the early-morning floating vegetable market experience so the correct departure time and route can be arranged.
Sunset Shikara Ride on Dal Lake
A sunset Shikara ride is a good option for couples, families and photographers who want softer evening light. The exact departure time should be planned around the local sunset rather than using the same clock time throughout the year. For a sunset booking, tell us your preferred date and we will help you select a suitable evening slot.
Is a Shikara Ride Safe?
Shikara rides are operated by boatmen who control the boat during the journey.
For your own safety:
- Follow the boatman’s instructions.
- Remain seated while the boat is moving.
- Keep children supervised.
- Do not stand up unnecessarily inside the boat.
- Ask about safety equipment before departure.
- Check the weather before an early-morning or winter ride.
If weather or local operating conditions make a ride unsuitable, the booking should be rescheduled according to the applicable booking policy.
Places to visit with Shikara Ride at Dal Lake
- Nehru Park
- Meena bazar
- Floating vegetable market
- Char Chinar garden
- Lily garden
- Floating gardens
- Fishing gardens
- Lotus Market Garden
Once booked and confirmed shikara ride is non-refundable non cancellable.
Shikara ride pricing, Dal Lake Srinagar Updated 2026
Dal Lake Boating Charges
Story of Shikara
Shikara was a traditional boat which was a means of transport for the people who were living in and around water bodies. Eventually it caught the eye of Kings and Maharaja’s which gave it significance. Eventually it became a sign of prestige and relaxation.
Shikara ride points in Srinagar
There are many points to cover with shikara ride but to consider a few , Meena Bazar , Floating gardens, Char chinar, Sonn-laank , Nehru Park , Golden Lake. Know more about shikara ride points
Can You Book a Shikara Ride in Advance?
Yes, You can book your Shikara ride in advance through Travel My Kashmir by using the booking form or contacting us by phone or WhatsApp.
Advance booking is particularly useful for:
- Peak travel periods
- Sunrise rides
- Floating vegetable market rides
- Sunset rides
- Special routes
- Families or groups travelling together
Srinagar shikara booking
Now you can book your shikara ride from the comfort of your home with some easy steps. Once booked and confirmed shikara ride is non-refundable non cancellable.
Travel My Kashmir Shikara Booking
Travel My Kashmir is a Srinagar-based travel company that arranges Kashmir travel services, including Shikara ride booking in Dal Lake.
Our booking team can help you confirm the practical details before you reach the lake, including the ride duration, route, price and boarding information.
For booking assistance:
Call/WhatsApp: +91 9796466052
Difference between online and Offline Shikara reservation
Benefits of online shikara ride booking
- Fixed pricing
- Not inflated
- Pricing is Govt approved
- No bargaining
- Dedicated boatman
- Behavioral quality of service
- Extension of ride
- Boat quality
- No haggling
Drawbacks of offline shikara ride booking
- You have to haggle for pricing.
- Prices are anything as the boatman wishes Govt prices are thrown into the bin.
- Commission is involved of driver which highly exaggerates pricing which eventually customer has to pay.
- Boatmen’s behavior and Boat are compromised
For on spot bookings you have to wait. - Any extension during ride is charged exorbitantly.
- Anyhow you will be required to shop from vendors in lake which will again overcharge because of commission.
Shikara Ride Dal Lake — Booking Contact Number
For Dal Lake Shikara ride booking contact Travel My Kashmir for availability, pricing, and booking assistance.
Call/WhatsApp: +91-9796466052
Srinagar, Kashmir
Travel My Kashmir – Best Tour and Travel Agency in Kashmir
floating post office in india
The Dal Lake floating post office is the only one of its kind in India, operational for over 200 years since it was first established in the British colonial period. It still functions as a working post office today and is a popular photo stop during a Shikara ride.
What is shikara ride in dal lake timings in 2026
Shikara Ride Timings (Summer, April–October): 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM Shikara Ride Timings (Winter, November–March): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Best time to ride: Early morning (6–8 AM) for the floating vegetable market, or evening (5–7 PM) for sunset views.
| Time of Day | Ride Duration | Best For | Typical Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Early Morning | 1-2 hours | Sunrise views | 5:00 AM - 7:00 AM |
| Morning | 1-2 hours | Sightseeing | 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM |
| Afternoon | 1-2 hours | General tours | 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM |
| Evening | 1-2 hours | Sunset views | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM |
| Night | 1-2 hours | Moonlit rides | 8:00 PM - 09:00 PM |
Please note:
- These timings are approximate and can change based on the season.
- Some operators may offer longer rides or full-day packages.
- Sunrise and sunset timings will vary throughout the year.
- Night rides may not be available during all seasons or from all operators.
Which lake is famous for Shikara boat ride?
The Dal Lake in Srinagar is more famous for shikara rides compare to Nigeen lake. Typically, most tourists prefer a shikara ride in Dal Lake. However, you can also consider a shikara ride in Nigeen Lake. Additionally, there are other lakes in Kashmir where you can enjoy shikara rides, such as shikara ride in Manasbal Lake and Wular Lake.
What are some famous points to explore during a Shikara ride?
Below are some of the famous points in Dal Lake that you can explore during a Shikara ride. If you are interested in visiting the popular floating vegetable market, consider taking a Shikara ride early in the morning before 5 AM. The price for this ride will be Rs. 2500.
| Shikara ride Duration | Shikara points |
|---|---|
| 1 hour | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, PirPanjal view |
| 2 hours | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, Pir Panjal view Floating Market/Meena Bazar, Shikara Vendors |
| 3 hours | Golden Lake, Dal wide view, PirPanjal view, Nehru park, Kabootar khana, Floating Market/Meena Bazar, Floating Cafeteria, Shikara Vendors |
Shikara points covered in 1 hour:
- Golden Lake
- Dal wide view
- PirPanjal view
Shikara points covered in 2 hours:
- Golden Lake
- Dal wide view
- Pir Panjal view
- Floating Market
- Meena Bazar
- Shikara Vendors
Shikara points covered in 3 hours:
- Golden Lake
- Dal wide view
- PirPanjal view
- Floating Market
- Meena Bazar
- Shikara Vendors
- Floating Cafeteria
- Nehru park
- Kabootar khana
What are other activities in Dal Lake apart from Shikara rides?
There are various activities apart from Shikara ride you can do in dal lake. Here are top activities in Dal lake
- Jet ski ride
- Zorbing
- Aqua cycle
- water skiing
payment & refund policy
► No partial payments for reservation/booking , bookings stands confirmed only after full payments are done.
► No refund once booked/reserved
► Any Reschedule has to be informed 5 days prior ,and Only 1 rescehdule is possible per booking
► If the guest is unable to visit on given time & date it is considered as NO SHOW
► For any natural circumstances or security of guests the ride can be resheduled for the next available dates.
Can I enjoy any food while taking a shikara ride in Dal Lake?
Yes, you can enjoy different types of foods while taking a shikara ride in Dal Lake. Some popular foods you can enjoy in Dal lake:
- Kashmiri Kahwa: This is a must-try for any visitor to Kashmir. Kahwa is a traditional green tea infused with saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and other spices.
- Kebabs: These are skewered pieces of marinated meat that are grilled to perfection. You can find a variety of kebabs on offer, including chicken, lamb, and even fish.
- Barbeque: These are small pieces of meat cooked on a grill, usually over charcoal.
Dal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most iconic and picturesque locations in Kashmir, and a Shikara ride is the perfect way to experience it. At “Travel My Kashmir”, we are proud to offer some of the best Shikara ride experiences . We are rated as the number one company in our category, thanks to our 10+ years of experience and our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for our customers.
Our Shikaras are all rowed by trained and licensed boatmen, ensuring that you are in safe hands at all times. Our boats are also equipped with all the necessary safety equipment, so you can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery without worrying. We also offer special events such as birthday and anniversary celebrations on the lake, making your experience even more memorable.
We understand that price is an important consideration when booking a tour, and we are happy to assure you that our prices are the same as those approved by the government and the tourism department of JK. We strive to provide the best possible experience at a fair price.
There is confusion among tourists regarding houseboats and Shikaras. Some believe that Shikaras and houseboats are the same, but this is not true. There is a major difference between them. Shikaras are used as a means of water transportation, whereas houseboats are floating homes anchored at a fixed location. Tourists love to stay in Houseboats in Srinagar.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Dal Lake, look no further than “Travel My Kashmir” a reputed travel agency in Kashmir with a google rating of 4.9 stars . We’ll take you on a wateristic journey that you’ll never forget. Book your Shikara ride today and discover the beauty of Dal Lake for yourself!
For a great experience of a shikara ride, it is recommended to book your shikara ride online with the top rated and best shikara ride booking website. You can also book your car rental in srinagar online and can enjoy the Kashmir trip at your own pace.
Some Frequently Asked questions about Online Shikara Booking.
How much does a Shikara ride cost on Dal Lake?
The current standard Travel My Kashmir rate is ₹770 per Shikara for the first hour. Each additional standard hour is ₹440. Therefore, a 2-hour ride is ₹1,210 and a 3-hour ride is ₹1,650 per boat. Special routes may have different pricing.
Is the Shikara ride price per person or per boat?
The standard rate is quoted per Shikara boat, not per person. For example, four adults sharing a ₹770 one-hour ride would pay about ₹193 each.
How long should a Shikara ride in Dal Lake be?
For most first-time visitors, 1–2 hours is enough for a standard experience. Choose a longer ride if you want more time for sightseeing, photography or a wider route.
What are the Shikara ride timings in Srinagar?
Shikara timings vary by season, daylight, weather and route. Travel My Kashmir generally plans rides within approximately 6:00 AM–9:00 PM in summer and 9:00 AM–6:00 PM in winter, subject to availability and local conditions.
Can I book a Shikara ride online?
Yes, You can fill out the Travel My Kashmir booking form or contact us by phone or WhatsApp. We can help confirm the date, duration, route, price and boarding Ghat.
Where do Shikara rides start in Dal Lake?
Rides operate from several Ghats around Dal Lake. Your exact boarding Ghat depends on the route and booking arrangement and is confirmed before the ride.
Does a standard Shikara ride include Char Chinar?
Not necessarily. Char Chinar may require a specific route and separate pricing. Mention Char Chinar when booking so the correct route can be arranged.
Can I see the floating vegetable market during a normal Shikara ride?
The floating vegetable market is an early-morning experience and is not part of every standard daytime ride. It should be booked separately with an early departure.
Is a sunset Shikara ride available?
Yes, sunset rides can be arranged subject to seasonal daylight and boat availability. The exact departure time should be selected according to the sunset on your travel date.
Are Shikara rides available throughout the year?
Shikara rides are generally available through the year, but weather and winter conditions can affect availability. Always confirm the ride for your selected date.
Can I book a Shikara for a birthday or anniversary?
Special arrangements such as decorations, photography or celebrations can be requested in advance. Availability and additional charges should be confirmed before booking.
Which Ghat is best in dal lake to visit?
Almost all the ghats in Dal Lake are worth visiting, but the ghats from 9 to 16 are the ones that offer beautiful views of Dal Lake in Srinagar. For a more peaceful experience Ghat 17 is the best choice.
Can I row the Shikara myself?
Yes, most boatmen are happy to hand you an oar for part of the ride if you would like to try rowing yourself. It’s a popular request, especially with kids and couples. Just let your boatman know at the start of the ride and he willl guide you through it while staying in control of the boat.
Can I hire a photographer for my Shikara ride?
Yes, professional photography add ons are available on request. Your photographer will travel alongside in a second Shikara to capture the ride from the water.
Book Your Shikara Ride in Dal Lake
Ready to experience Dal Lake from the water?
Book your Shikara ride in Srinagar in advance and receive your confirmed ride details before you arrive.
Call or WhatsApp Travel My Kashmir:
+91 9796466052
Book Online: Complete the Shikara booking form above with your travel date, group size, duration and preferred time.