You can now book a boat ride on Uber in India
Uber Shikara aims to improve reliability for travelers while boosting economic opportunities for local boat operators.
Dal Lake in Srinagar, often referred to as the “Jewel of Kashmir,” is a favourite destination for tourists and honeymooners alike. Its iconic 4,000 traditional Shikara boats, adorned with canopies and vibrant designs, have long been central to the region’s cultural heritage and tourism.
However, the process of booking these scenic boat rides has often been informal, leading to inconsistent pricing and logistical challenges. Now, in a bid to streamline the experience, Uber has introduced Uber Shikara, its first water transport service in India and Asia as a whole.
This initiative allows users to pre-book boat rides via its app. Bookings can be made 12 hours to 15 days in advance, with fares adhering to government-regulated rates. Notably, Uber is not taking a commission, ensuring that all payments go directly to the boat operators.
The launch will begin with a fleet of seven Shikaras with plans to expand based on demand, Reuters reports. Uber is also introducing features like trip insurance and transparent pricing, aiming to make the experience more reliable for travellers while supporting grassroots economic growth for local boat operators.
Emmanuel Oyedeji
India is already one of Uber’s largest markets, with over one million drivers on its platform and a steadily growing user base. Expanding into water transport reflects Uber’s strategy to diversify its offerings and deepen its reach in India’s tourism sector, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where the government is actively promoting local travel.
Meanwhile, reactions from the Shikara community have been mixed. While some see Uber’s entry as an opportunity to enhance earnings and reduce price disputes, others are skeptical about its impact on long-standing informal systems. Critics also highlight that local players and informal arrangements have been serving Dal Lake visitors for years, raising questions about Uber’s ability to differentiate itself.
But this isn't Uber's first foray into water transport. The company has offered similar services in Venice and London and will likely use its experience in those regions to inform its efforts in India.
Additionally, with no other competitor in India, including Ola or Quick Ride, currently offering such a service, Uber could have an advantage in this niche market. Whether Uber Shikara can successfully balance economic growth with the conservation of Dal Lake’s heritage remains to be seen.
