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 tourism experience while promoting grassroots economic opportunities for shikara drivers in Jammu and 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 told PTI.
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.
In India, the company has initially onboarded 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.
Uber Shikara: Check booking timing
- Each 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.
- 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.
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).
- Click “Book” and you’re all set for your Uber Shikara experience on the Dal Lake.
