Kashmir Has Own Version Of Nightlife With Illuminated Shikaras On Dal Lake

by Sanjana Shenoy
Kashmir Has Own Version Of Nightlife With Illuminated Shikaras On Dal Lake

There’s something charming about sauntering around in the night. And no, we’re not talking about partying and raving for a fun nightlife. We’re referring to the quiet nights spent by a pristine lake, or even enjoying a hot cup of coffee in the moonlight at Marine Drive. Well, Kashmir Valley has its own version of nightlife with illuminated shikaras ( houseboats) glistening in the Dal Lake.

Dal Lake Filled With Illuminated Shikaras At Night

Kashmir’s department of tourism has taken vital steps to boost tourism in the nighttime as well. The union territory doesn’t have nightlife for decades as everything shuts by 8 pm and tourists visiting the valley are left with nothing to do. According to a report by Wion, 80 Shikaras on Dal Lake will be illuminated during the nighttime in a phased manner Eventually over 1000 Shikaras will be lit up by the department of tourism.

Also Read: Anand Mahindra Shares Stunning Kashmir Pics; Says Hello Srinagar, Goodbye Switzerland

Picture Credits: @1994PoojaSingh/ Twitter

 

Also Read: Jaipur Gets Unique Houseboat Themed Restaurant Opened By Kashmiri Pandit

Houseboats Lit With Eco-Friendly, Solar Powered Lights

Interestingly, the lights installed on the houseboats are eco-friendly and solar-power based. Mukhtar Ahmad, a Photographer, revealed to Wion that the illuminated Shikaras will not just enhance the look of Dal Lake and Kashmir Valley at night, but also help Shikara owners considerably. This will increase their working hours, thereby bringing in more business for them. Moreover, it will send a message that tourists have plenty to explore and experience in Kashmir even at night. Until you visit Kashmir, here’s a virtual tour of our Chief Editor embarking on a Shikara trip in Srinagar.