Uber Launches Shikara Ride Booking Service in Srinagar

For the first time in India, Uber has introduced a water transport service in Srinagar, allowing users to book shikara rides through its app. Called Uber Shikara, this is Uber’s first such service in Asia, inspired by similar options in European cities like Venice.

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The service was launched at Dal Lake, one of Jammu and Kashmir’s most popular tourist spots. Often called the “Jewel of Srinagar,” Dal Lake is famous for its natural beauty and cultural importance. Shikaras, traditional wooden boats, are a key part of the lake’s charm and a favorite among tourists for peaceful rides.

In the initial phase, Uber has partnered with seven shikaras. The service runs daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., starting at Shikara Ghat No. 16. Each shikara can carry up to four passengers, and bookings can be made between 12 hours to 15 days in advance.

To support local boatmen, Uber is not taking any commission fees, meaning shikara operators keep the entire fare. The service also standardizes pricing to reduce bargaining and ensures a reliable income for boatmen.

Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, praised the initiative for combining technology with local tradition. The Shikara Owners Association, representing around 4,000 boats, welcomed the move. Its president, Wali Mohammad Bhatt, said the platform could increase bookings and promote tourism in the region.

Uber Shikara makes it easier for visitors to explore the peaceful beauty of Dal Lake. Uber described it as “a smooth, tech-enabled experience that boosts accessibility while supporting local tourism.”

This unique service blends tradition and technology, offering a memorable experience in the heart of Kashmir.