Kashmir: A Winter Fantasyland
Covered among the Himalayan mountains, which soar above the clouds to reach heavenly heights, is the U-shaped valley of Kashmir. Being royal not only in its name, its innumerous natural wonders include freshwater springs, mirrory lakes, lush forests, and river-cut valleys having breathtaking meadows and pastures. All of this can be imagined to be covered in heavy snow in the winter. The white landscape shining bright in the sun and presenting an aura of spirituality and peace is an experience beyond describing.
Note From Author
I am writing this article to put down valuable information on the topic of a Shikara in the Dal Lake Snow. The most famous lake of Kashmir covered by snow in the winter season. The special focus will be on Shikara riding, which is among the most tranquil winter boat rides in the world. This content is an outcome of research and hard work put forth by me and Kashmir Online. The trip planner, Kashmir Online is a trusted and genuine brand in making a premium and pleasurable vacation to Kashmir.
We love to serve the guests who have come to visit the heaven on earth. Do check our packages here and if you have any suggestions about the blog, you can mail me at [email protected]. You can also reach me on my Facebook here.
Dal Lake- Chilled With Ice
Dal Lake snow or snow in the Dal Lake is a heavenly sight to see if you get a chance to visit Kashmir in winter. Every part of Kashmir receives plenty of snow A lot of snow, taken by Dal Lake condenses into water. After the dropping of temperatures to below zero degrees at night, in the peak winter, the waters of Dal Lake eventually freeze partially. This thin layer of ice is cut by Shikaras that roam in the lake, creating paths that make up a different artistic scene on Dal Lake.
Shikara- A Heritage, Legacy and Pride
The Shikara is a wooden boat that has become a symbol of Kashmir Valley. In a casual sense, may we call it the camel of Dal Lake for its high priority in terms of transportation. Shikara is the oldest among the tranquil winter boat rides, available in Kashmir. Important as the primary source of transportation and other activities for the dwellers of the Dal Lake, locally known as ‘Heanz’.
In the past when there were more water bodies in Kashmir, the people of Kashmir would travel largely through these. Shikaras have a long history and are an important part of the heritage and legacy of Kashmir. In terms of Tourism, it is a world-famous ride that travellers enjoy a lot.
Making of a Shikara
Shikaras, among the best Srinagar winter boat cruises, are made using the willow wood found in Kashmir. The wood, best suited for this use, Willow, does not get eroded by water easily and is also a strong one. The same people prepare the Shikaras who own them, the previously mentioned Heanz community, the dwellers of the Dal Lake.
After preparing the boat, it is painted for its final look. Seats with cushions and side curtains become an important add-on. The Shikaras meant for the use of tourists, include adding a roof that also saves from the rain and snow. Nowadays, Shikaras also have LED lighting which makes them shine in the dark. Shikaras are surely among the best tranquil winter boat rides in India.
A Shikara Experience
Let us now discuss the experience of a Shikara ride. Shikaras, lined along the banks of Dal Lake, look like horses ready for a race. Shikaras are made and fashioned in a way that gives a comfy and tranquil experience to visitors. Many Shikara owners beautify their boats with flowers and other decorations. These also have different names given by their owners.
Traversing through the ice sheets of Dal Lake snow, a scene among the most relaxing experiences found in India and beyond becomes ready. Rowed by a single man, with the satisfying rowing sounds in the silence, the boatman makes you experience the best Srinagar winter boat cruises while you sip a cup of Kashmiri Kehwa on the cushiony seats.
Places To Visit in Shikara
You can roam in a Shikara without any specific destination or you can visit the famous attractions of the Dal Lake. There is the Char Chinari Island in the Dal Lake, the Nehru Park, and the vegetable and flower market of Dal Lake. The shops in the insides of Dal Lakes and dwelling areas of the Dal Lake can also be explored. Shikaras are surely among the best tranquil winter boat rides in India.
FAQs
Which months witness the Dal Lake snow?
The months of January and February are the coldest and witness heavy snow in the whole of Kashmir.
What are the rates of Shikara rides?
Every year a new rate list for every tourist service, produced by the Tourism Department of J&K, aids the travellers. These can be checked on the Internet.
Is there any possibility of drowning in the lake while riding a Shikara?
There is not even a one percent chance of drowning in the Dal Lake while riding a Shikara. Even if you fall in the water, the boatmen are expert swimmers and can rescue you in minutes.
