Srinagar, Jan 24: Despite speculations about its discontinuation, Uber Shikara will resume its services on Dal Lake. The app-based service, which blends traditional shikara rides with modern technology, is currently on a temporary pause due to weather conditions.
The speculations about its discontinuation began when users attempting to book a ride received a notification stating, “Due to weather conditions, Uber Shikara is not available.” This notification appeared even when weather conditions seemed favourable, and other local shikaras continued to operate, causing confusion among locals and tourists alike.
Launched in December last year, Uber Shikara aimed to transform the way tourists and locals experience Dal Lake. Rising Kashmir was the first to report its debut, highlighting app-based bookings for traditional shikara rides. The service began with a fleet of seven shikaras, allowing users to book rides up to 15 days in advance. Additionally, the pricing structure adheres to government-approved rates, ensuring transparency and consistency.
At the time of launch, Prabhjeet Singh, President of Uber India & South Asia, emphasized the initiative’s significance. “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.”
Although temporarily suspended, Uber Shikara has received widespread appreciation for its convenience. Many tourists have shared their positive experiences. Anahita from Delhi said, “Uber Shikara made our visit to Dal Lake stress-free and enjoyable. Being able to pre-book a ride saved us the hassle of negotiating with boatmen.” Similarly, Anand from Madhya Pradesh stated, “Having a hassle-free experience in such an iconic place is invaluable.”
Local shikarawalas are also optimistic that the service will be resumed soon. Wali Mohammad Bhatt, president of the Shikara Owners Association, said, “We are hopeful that the service will resume soon and bring more opportunities for business.”
While many eagerly await the return of Uber Shikara, some tourists have voiced frustration over its temporary suspension, especially since other shikaras continue to operate. Anmol Gupta, a tourist from Delhi, expressed his disappointment: “I was really excited to try Uber Shikara, but it’s frustrating to see that it’s unavailable despite good weather.”
Since its launch, Uber Shikara has been widely praised for modernizing the traditional shikara ride experience. Notably, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, also hailed the launch as a testament to how technology can enhance the region’s cultural heritage. He said the new service will offer tourists a seamless experience to enjoy the timeless beauty of the Shikara ride. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sinha said, “Launch of Uber Shikara in Srinagar is a testament to creative ways technology can enhance our cultural heritage. This offering in the upcoming tourist season will provide visitors a seamless way to experience the timeless charm of Shikara rides, a hallmark of J&K’s beauty.”
Interestingly, the suspension of Uber Shikara comes at a time when Kashmir is experiencing a surge in tourism. According to the Tourism Department, over 3 million visitors, including more than 35,000 international tourists, flocked to the region last year, with expectations for even higher numbers this year.
As tourism in Kashmir continues to grow, both locals and visitors are looking forward to the return of Uber Shikara, hoping that the service will soon resume and continue offering a convenient, unique way to experience Dal Lake.
