Srinagar, Dec 2 (IANS) – Uber has introduced Asia’s first-ever water transport service with the launch of “Uber Shikara” in the picturesque Dal Lake of Jammu and Kashmir. This new initiative allows tourists to seamlessly book shikara rides directly through the Uber app, combining the charm of Kashmir’s traditional boat rides with the convenience of modern technology.
The service was officially launched by Uber India and South Asia President, Prabhjeet Singh, who personally booked the inaugural shikara ride through the app. Speaking at the launch, Singh emphasized that “Uber Shikara” is a step towards enhancing the tourism experience in Kashmir by blending technology with tradition, making the iconic shikara ride more accessible to visitors.
The launch of “Uber Shikara” marks a significant milestone for the company as it is the first water transport offering in Asia, following similar services in select European cities like Venice, Italy. Uber has partnered with seven local shikara owners to kick off the service, with plans to expand the fleet based on demand.
Rides will be offered at government-regulated rates to ensure fair pricing for tourists. Uber will not charge any fees from shikara operators, ensuring that the entire fare goes directly to the boat owners. The shikaras are stationed at Nehru Park, located at the heart of Dal Lake, providing a scenic departure point for passengers.
Each “Uber Shikara” ride can accommodate up to four passengers and is available for one-hour bookings daily between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Bookings can be made anywhere from 12 hours to 15 days in advance, offering flexibility for tourists.
Uber’s Director of Communications, Ruchika Tomar, expressed excitement about the launch, stating, “Anyone who visits Srinagar should experience a shikara ride, which is a must-do activity on every traveler’s bucket list. With Uber Shikara, we are combining the timeless tradition of the shikara with the convenience of modern technology, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience for all visitors.”
With the introduction of “Uber Shikara,” Uber is further solidifying its presence in Srinagar, where it has already established cab services, and aims to revolutionize the way tourists explore the Dal Lake.
