Basir Zargar/ Srinagar

Uber on Monday launched India's first-ever water transport service, offering tourists the comfort of pre-booking shikara rides on Dal Lake in Srinagar through its app.

Named as Uber Shikara, the limited-period service is designed to enhance the experience of tourists while promoting grassroots economic opportunities for shikara owners in Kashmir.

"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 India and South Asia, President, Prabhjeet Singh said.

The Uber Shikara service point in Dal Lake

An Uber spokesperson confirmed that Uber's water transport service in India is also the first in Asia. Uber offers water transport booking in some of the European countries including Venice in Italy.

“Uber Shikara is our humble attempt to blend technology and tradition, enhancing accessibility and uplifting tourism in the breathtaking landscape of Kashmir," he said,” Singh said

Uber Shikara marks a significant milestone for the company as it is the first water transport offering in Asia after similar services in select European countries like Italy (Venice).

A Shikara owner with his boat

Uber has partnered with seven local shikara owners with plans to expand the fleet based on user demand.

Rides will be available at government-regulated rates, ensuring fair pricing for tourists.

In India, the company has initially on boarded seven shikaras and plans to gradually expand the fleet based on the service's traction. Uber users will be able to book shikara at government-determined rates. The company's spokesperson said Uber is not charging any fees from its shikara partners and the entire amount will be passed to them.

Shikaras in Dal Lake

Shikara Owners Association President Wali Mohammad Bhatt said that there are around 4,000 shikaras in Dal Lake and he expects Uber to onboard more shikara partners. "Uber service will boost shikara operators' business as the app will facilitate the booking of the boats at fixed rates and end bargaining which provides relief to tourists.

Uber Shikara ride can be booked for a period of 1 hour between 10 am to 5 pm, allowing up to 4 passengers from Shikara Ghat No 16. Uber Shikara rides can be booked 12 hours prior and up to 15 days in advance.

Here's how to book Uber Shikara ride:

First you need to open the latest version of the Uber app (ensure it’s updated via the App Store or Play Store).

Then, you will have to enter ‘Shikara Ghat No. 16’ as the start and end point in the ‘Where to’ bar.

Select Uber Shikara from the ride options.

Choose the time and date for your ride (available from 10 AM to 5 PM).

Confirm your pick-up location (Ghat 16).

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Click “Book” and you’re all set for your Uber Shikara experience on the Dal Lake.