Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 02: In a first of its kind innovation for India, Uber India has introduced a water transport service, enabling users to book rides on Srinagar’s beautiful Shikaras through its app.
This feature, known as “Uber Shikara,” brings a touch of modern convenience to the traditional charm of Dal Lake, starting from today.
As per the details obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Uber India has introduced the tie-up with Kashmir’s iconic Shikara, with a service that allows customers to book their Shikara rides up to 15 days in advance.
This step by Uber’s instruction to Kashmir’s Shikara has taken social media by storm, with Uber India sharing the news on their X handle: “Introducing Uber Shikara in Srinagar, the perfect blend of tradition and tech.”
“Introducing Uber Shikara in Srinagar! The perfect blend of tradition and tech! Now you can book your serene Shikara ride up to 15 days in advance. With just a tap on the Uber app, you are ready to set sail. Experience Dal Lake like never before. #UberShikara,” Uber India wrote on X.
With just a tap on the Uber app, the visitors can now embark on their Dal Lake adventure, enjoying the beauty of one of Kashmir’s beautiful Shikaras.
Wali Mohammad, President of the Shikara Association in Kashmir, speaking with KNO, said it is a good initiative and will boost the tourism sector of the valley. “This is a step forward for the Shikara community. It not only promotes our traditional livelihood but also connects us with a larger audience through technology,” he said.
“Uber Shikara can now be booked online, and as of now, 10 Shikaras are available to be booked through Uber. The Uber Shikara can be accessed from Dal Lake Ghat number 16, and Uber’s online Shikara booking has kicked off from today,” he said, adding that up to four people can ride the Shikara and enjoy the view of the scenic, beautiful Dal Lake.
“As of now, 10 Shikaras have collaborated with Uber India, and more will join as the peak season arrives. The Uber Shikara will be a boost for Shikaras in the valley,” he said.
Pertinently, Uber Shikara is seen as a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, enhancing the tourism experience while supporting the local economy. “This is a great step and a step towards modernizing the traditional Shikara. It feels like traditions are being seen in a whole new light, bringing hope for the future,” said Siram from Delhi.
Another tourist from Gujarat said, “The introduction of Uber Shikara will make a Kashmir trip easier and more beautiful. Now we can book a Shikara ride all the way from our homes outside Kashmir and don’t have to bargain for fare.”
Meanwhile, an official statement of Uber India, a copy of is also available with KNO, reads, keeping with its promise to provide mobility to masses through various modes, Uber today launched Uber Shikara, giving tourists an option to pre-book their boat rides on the Dal Lake through the Uber app.
The limited-period product will help tourists pre-book their Shikara rides through the Uber app in advance so that they are all set to enjoy the scenic beauty of Dal Lake in Srinagar during the upcoming busy holiday season.
It reads as, part of this initiative to promote tourism in the picturesque region, Uber will not charge any fee on Shikara rides booked through its app. The entire amount will go to the Shikara drivers, creating additional economic opportunities for the grassroot tourism workers in J&K. Each Uber Shikara ride can be booked for a period of 1 hour, allowing up to 4 passengers. Uber Shikara rides can be booked 12 hours prior and up to 15 days in advance.
Commenting on the launch, Prabhjeet Singh, President, Uber India & South Asia said, “At Uber, we are always looking to make mobility magical and effortless. Uber Shikara is our humble attempt to blend technology and tradition to give a seamless experience to travellers for their Shikara ride. We are proud to create this iconic experience enhancing accessibility and uplifting tourism in the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir.”
“Uber Shikara introduces the convenience of pre-booking through Uber Reserve, allowing travelers to plan their rides in advance. This feature is aimed at helping travelers enjoy the beauty of Jammu & Kashmir to its fullest without worrying about last-minute arrangements,” it reads.
“With just a few taps on the Uber app, riders can secure their ride, sit back, and let the tranquil waters of Dal Lake add to the magic of their journey,” the statement reads.
Uber introduced trip insurance for all Uber Shikara rides, ensuring that every journey offers travelers complete peace of mind as they take in the breathtaking beauty of Srinagar, as the valley opens its doors for the winter travel season.
About booking an Uber Shikara ride it reads as, open the latest version of the Uber app (check for updates on App Store/Play Store), Select start and end points as ‘Shikara Ghat No 16’ from the ‘Where to’ bar. Select Uber Shikara. Select time and date (available only during 10 am to 5 pm). Select Uber Shikara. Confirm pick up location (Ghat 16) and Click “Book” and you’re set to enjoy the Uber Shikara experience at the Dal Lake—(KNO)
