Shikara

Glide across Dal Lake in a hand-carved wooden boat, past floating gardens and houseboats. It is Kashmir's most memorable hour.

Shikara

Overview

The shikara is Kashmir's gondola: a hand-carved wooden boat, rowed by a local boatman from a low, cushioned seat draped in bright fabric. You glide across the calm waters of Dal Lake past floating vegetable gardens, century-old houseboats and willow-lined channels, with the Zabarwan mountains all around.

Floating vendors sell vegetables, saffron, flowers and handicrafts from their boats. A ride is the gentlest introduction to the valley, and easily its most photographed hour.

Key Sights & Stops

Char Chinar, the island crowned with four chinar trees
Floating Vegetable Market, the famous dawn gathering
Nehru Park, a mid-lake island encircled by quiet water
Nishat & Shalimar Bagh shoreline, viewed from the water

Essential Tips

Pricing

Agree the rate and route before you start. Prices vary by season and are usually set per group, not per person.

Best Time

Set out at sunrise or golden hour for the best light and the fewest crowds.

What to Pack

Layers for the mountain air, sun protection, sturdy shoes and a charged camera.

Experience the real Kashmir

Tell us your dates and we'll build a trip around it: lakes, meadows and peaks.

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