Uber has launched its first ever water transportation service in Asia in the form of Uber Shikara, which started plying on Kashmir’s iconic Dal Lake. Uber is to upgrade tourists’ experiences by allowing travelers to book traditional Kashmiri shikaras directly from the Uber app.
Uber Shikara service has been launched with a fleet of seven shikaras. The ride duration will be an hour long and the operating time between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. In advance, tourists can pre-book their rides for up to 15 days. This move is likely to give the tourists an uninterrupted experience to see the sceneries of the beauty of Dal Lake.
Techno-Tourism Hub
According to the president of Uber India and South Asia, Prabhjeet Singh, the service is a “humble attempt to blend technology and tradition.” Singh stated that the aim of the service is to increase accessibility and boost tourism in the region. Uber has planned a service fee-free move for this new service, meaning the entire fare will be handed over to the local shikara operators.
The Support of Shikara Community
Wali Mohammad Bhatt, President of the Shikara Owners Association, was optimistic about the move. “This service will help almost 4,000 shikara operators on Dal Lake. It will standardize the pricing, reduce haggling, and provide a stable source of income for local boatmen,” he said.
How to Book a Shikara Ride with Uber
Tourists can book a ride by selecting “Uber Shikara” in the app, setting Shikara Ghat No. 16 as the pickup point, and choosing a convenient time slot. Each shikara ride accommodates up to four passengers, offering an easy and accessible way to enjoy the serene beauty of Dal Lake.
This new service from Uber will revolutionize the experience of tourism in Kashmir. The modern convenience will merge with rich cultural heritage.
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