Incredible India: A Journey Through Culture & Color Part-2

Welcome back, fellow travelers! I'm thrilled to take you along on another chapter of my India travel series. After exploring the colorful Onam festival in Kerala, we're now heading north to the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir—where every view looks like a postcard and every moment feels like a dream.

If you're planning a trip and wondering about the best time to visit Kashmir, dreaming of a peaceful Shikara ride Dal Lake, or just curious about what the real Shikara ride experience in Dal Lake feels like—then stay with me. This post dives into one of the most iconic experiences in the region and reveals whether it’s truly magical or just overhyped. Oh, and if you're building your itinerary, I’ll also highlight one of the absolute best places to visit in Kashmir.

First Impressions: Is Dal Lake Really That Beautiful?

Let me just say this—Dal Lake is every bit as gorgeous as the photos suggest. As I stood near the edge, watching colorful Shikaras glide smoothly across the mirrored water with the Himalayas in the backdrop, I felt like I’d stepped into a painting. The stillness, the crisp mountain air, and the occasional chime of temple bells created an atmosphere that was instantly calming.

I couldn’t wait to hop on a Shikara myself and see what all the fuss was about.

Setting Sail on a Shikara: Calm Meets Curiosity

My ride began just after sunrise, the golden hour when the lake is at its most peaceful. Wrapped in a Kashmiri shawl and sipping warm kahwa (saffron tea) handed to me by the boatman, I felt like royalty.

The gentle rocking of the boat, the splash of the oar, and the quiet all around—it was a sensory escape. But as we moved further along, something shifted. From the stillness emerged a rhythm of its own: floating vendors paddled by selling jewelry, snacks, flowers, even full-on souvenirs. It was charming… at first.

Then came another vendor. And another. And another.

The peace started to feel a little commercial.

Touristy Trap or Real Life on Water?

I’ll be honest—there’s definitely a touristy element here. The Shikara ride isn't just a scenic journey; it's also a floating marketplace. But it’s not all bad. Most vendors are polite and not pushy, and if you’re curious, you can chat with them and learn more about the products and their life on the lake.

I found myself torn. I wanted the quiet, poetic ride I imagined, but I also appreciated that this was real life for so many families. The lake isn’t just a sightseeing spot—it’s their home, their office, their world.

My Favorite Moment on the Lake

Midway through the ride, my boatman steered us into a less crowded canal, away from the usual tourist loop. Suddenly, it was just me, the water, and the whisper of the wind.

We floated past wooden houseboats, little kids waving from windows, and gardens literally growing on water. It was surreal. That quiet stretch—the one no tour guide talks about—is the moment I’ll remember forever. It felt like Dal Lake finally showed me her soul.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Ride

Here’s what I learned:

• Go early in the morning or just before sunset—the light is perfect and the lake is calm.
• Choose a longer route (at least 1.5 hours) so you can reach the quieter, hidden parts of the lake.
• Talk to your Shikara rider—mine shared some incredible local stories and even pointed out movie shooting spots!
• Carry small change—you might want to buy a little souvenir or try some floating snacks.
• Don’t rush—Dal Lake has a rhythm of its own. Let it take over.

So, Is It Worth It?

Definitely. Yes, it has its touristy bits. Yes, you’ll get offers from floating vendors. But even with all that, a Shikara ride experience in Dal Lake is something I’d recommend to anyone visiting Kashmir. It’s beautiful, it’s unique, and it leaves you with memories you’ll want to relive again and again.

It’s more than a ride. It’s a glimpse into the life, heart, and rhythm of this breathtaking place.

Thinking of Visiting? Here’s a Tip.

If you're planning your own adventure soon, make sure to check out various Kashmir tour packages. Many include boat rides, local stays, and guided experiences that go beyond the usual tourist path. Whether you’re in it for the views, the culture, or the serenity, there’s a perfect package waiting for you.

And with that, I’m off to my next stop in India! Stay tuned as I continue this colorful journey through the heart of the subcontinent.

Loved this story? Don’t miss Part 1 of my India series where I celebrated the vibrant Onam festival in Kerala!

Read Part-1 here: Celebrating Onam in Kerala: Culture, Feasts & Festivities