“Gar firdaus, bar roo-e-zameen ast,
Hameen ast-o, hameen ast-o, hameen ast”
Amir Khusrau 1253 – 1325 AD
If there is a paradise on earth, it is here, it is here, it is here
The legendary Amir Khusrau would have little known that his lines would continue to resonate through centuries, describing the beautiful Kashmir, the paradise on earth. Bestowed with snow-capped mountains, apple-laden trees, thick oak and deodar forests, lush meadows, walnut creations, and eternal beauty, Kashmir is akin to pristine natural beauty.
With the tourism season on the horizon, The Voices’ student reporter travels to the Jhelum-fed Dal Lake in Srinagar to capture the heart of the tourist experience — the Shikaras. The Shikaras of Kashmir enjoy the same status as Gondolas do in Venice. Believed to have been introduced during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar in the 16th century, the Shikaras have evolved from being modes of transportation and fishing to the epicenter of the tourism-driven economy.
The floating Shikara market has something to offer to everyone. While many are familiar with the floating vegetable market that is operational every morning, there’s more to discover. Throughout the day, tourists can explore various offerings on the Shikaras.
Shikaras have multiple uses, including general transportation. Usually, it can seat six people, with the driver paddling at the rear, but there are smaller ones, too. The Shikarawalas elaborately decorate their Shikaras with curtains to attract tourists. Some are made only for two people with a Shikarawala rowing it.
The Iconic Shikaras — A Cultural Emblem of Kashmir
Initially a straightforward dug-out canoe, the Shikara has developed into an intricately carved, gorgeous wooden vessel made from water-resistant Deodar wood. It was initially a mere means of transportation and fishing over the lakes of Dal, Wular, and Nigeen. It is now a representation of peace and beauty. The Shikara is an indication of hospitality and tranquility on the Dal Lake.
The Shikara Union and the people of Kashmir have created a remarkable niche market. While enjoying the serene Shikara ride on the calm waters of Dal Lake, one can shop for many items. Ranging from saffron, flowers, fruits, to silver jewelry and clothing.
The most popular items are the seven GI tagged Kashmir handicrafts. These include Kani Shawl, Pashmina, Sozni, Papier-mâché, Walnut Wood Carving, Khatamband, and Hand Knotted Carpets.
Delicacies such as tea, coffee, kehwa, fruit chaat, kebabs, roasted corn, steamed corn, and other keeps treats can be enjoyed while basking in the pristine beauty of Kashmir. These delicacies are especially delightful in the chilly weather.
‘Meena Bazaar’ is a huge market located within the lake. Here, one can dock Shikaras like one would park a car. You can then disembark and explore the stores, which sell beautiful clothes, artefacts, Papier-mâché, and dry fruits. After shopping, one can return to the Shikara and continue enjoying the scenery. The Shikaras with flowers and flower bouquets are a colourful sight against the green-blue water canvas.
One can see people thoroughly enjoying this unique experience. A tourist from Maharashtra, Aditee, shared that the sheer variety of products on each of these small Shikaras not only gives the comfort of easy shopping but also helps to hop from one place to another, an easier task.
Shovran Singh, a first-time visitor to Srinagar, said everyone should come to Kashmir at least once and enjoy the Shikara ride.
A Shikara owner, Yousouf, told The Voices that the peak tourist season, from April to June-July, is about to start. Here, one can see Dal Lake in full bloom. In spring and summer, the market is buzzing, and the vibrant flora and fauna enhance the beauty of Kashmir.
Other Shikarawalas also echo that people are seen in bright colours during summer—the dress code changes with seasons. Beautiful attire is on display, unlike the cold weather when people are bundled up in Pherans – the warm traditional attire of the Kashmiris, most worn during the cold weather. They also carry Kangris, earthen pots woven with wicker and filled with hot embers. It helps to keep the chill at bay. It is normally kept inside the Pheran or a blanket.
Shopping is an integral part of any travel experience, and unique concepts like ‘Shikara Shops’ add to the memory of the tour. We recommend you take time and explore the Dal Lake and the Shikara market and enjoy the unique shopping experience that Srinagar offers.
