A new attraction is catching the eye of everyone in the city these days. The Srinagar-based royal horse cart initiative by a group of enterprising youth who are in the process of reviving traditional modes of transport along the popular Foreshore Road, is fast gaining popularity among both locals and tourists. The horse cart ride is allowing them to take a nostalgic journey through one of the beautiful parts of Srinagar.
A group of youth including Shahid, Momin, Imtiyaz and Aadil, all graduates from Srinagar turned their idea into reality. These jobless youngsters decided to explore their cultural heritage further and come up with something fresh but traditional for visitors. The trio carrying passengers in a beautifully bedecked horse carriage along Boulevard Road has gone viral on social networks, winning over many hearts.
Birth Of an idea
Shahid also narrated how they came up with the idea describing how they had been deliberating on what more could be done to improve tourist’s experience in Srinagar. “We were thinking about what tourists have in Srinagar except for the Shikara ride,” Shahid explained. “The Tonga Ride was the first thing that struck our minds.”
This mode of transport, once common in the valley, had almost disappeared. Except for a single example at Lalit, the Tonga Ride was no longer a part of the Srinagar landscape. The group saw an opportunity to revive this traditional experience and add a historical touch, thus preserving a piece of their cultural heritage.
Bringing the vision to life
To realize their vision, the young men had a cart specially made in Punjab. They also acquired two horses, one white and one brown, to complete the royal ensemble. “We got the cart ready from Punjab and also have two horses, one white and one brown,” Shahid said.
The costs involved were substantial. They bought one horse for Rs 2 lakh and the other for Rs 1.5 lakh. The royal cart itself cost Rs 4.4 lakh, with an additional Rs 20,000 for GST. Despite the high initial investment, the group remained undeterred, driven by their passion for the project and the potential they saw in it.
Routes and Pricing
The Royal Horse Cart service operates along three main routes, each offering a unique glimpse into Srinagar’s beauty. The first route runs from Nishat parking to Shalimar Park, costing Rs 1000. The second route extends to Duck Park with a fare of Rs 1500. The third and longest route goes from Nishat to Habbak Srinagar, priced at Rs 2000.
“We have three stops: from Nishat parking to Shalimar Park costing Rs 1000, the second one to Duck Park with a fare of Rs 1500, and the third one from Nishat to Habbak Srinagar for Rs 2000,” Shahid detailed.
Support and Permissions
Launching such an initiative required navigating various bureaucratic processes. The group sought and received necessary permissions from multiple departments, including the Deputy Commissioner (DC), the Police, Srinagar Smart City, and the tourism department. Shahid expressed gratitude for the support they received from these entities, highlighting the collaborative effort in bringing their vision to life.
“We have taken permission from all the departments including Deputy Commissioner (DC), Police, Srinagar Smart City, and the tourism department, and everyone has helped them with permissions for the initiative,” Shahid shared.
Historical Significance
The Tonga Ride holds a special place in Kashmir’s history. Once the most affordable means of transportation, it was widely used by people to carry essentials and travel across the valley. This traditional mode of transport has a profound historical significance, reflecting the lifestyle and culture of an earlier era.
By reintroducing the Tonga Ride, Shahid, Momin, Imtiyaz, and Aadil are not just offering a service but are also reviving a cherished tradition. This initiative allows locals and tourists to connect with Kashmir’s past in a tangible way, experiencing the same mode of transport that once crisscrossed the valleys and roads of the region.
A New Attraction in Srinagar
The Royal Horse Cart rides have quickly become a new attraction in Srinagar, appealing to both locals and tourists. For many, it is a trip down memory lane, evoking nostalgia and a sense of pride in their heritage. For tourists, it provides a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of Srinagar, adding a touch of love and history to their visit.
The sight of the elegant horse-drawn cart against the backdrop of Srinagar’s stunning landscapes creates a picture-perfect moment, one that is frequently shared on social media, further boosting its popularity. The venture’s success is a proof to the ingenuity and determination of Srinagar’s youth, who have turned a simple idea into a thriving business.
Future Plans
Buoyed by the positive response, the group has plans to expand their services and introduce more routes. They are also considering adding more carts and horses to accommodate the growing demand. Their long-term vision includes promoting the Royal Horse Cart ride as a key attraction in Srinagar, drawing more tourists to the city and providing them with an unforgettable experience.
Shahid, Momin, Imtiyaz, and Aadil are also exploring ways to integrate their service with other tourist activities, creating comprehensive packages that offer a holistic experience of Srinagar’s culture and beauty. They hope to collaborate with local businesses and the tourism department to further enhance the tourist experience and contribute to the local economy.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Royal Horse Cart rides in Srinagar is a beautiful blend of tradition and innovation. It reflects the spirit of the city’s youth, who are keen to preserve their heritage while also providing modern, enjoyable experiences for visitors. This initiative not only revives a historical mode of transport but also adds a new dimension to tourism in Srinagar, making it an even more attractive destination.
