
During my Kashmir trip, one of the experiences I enjoyed the most was my Shikara ride on Dal Lake in Srinagar. I had seen pictures and videos of Shikaras many times before, but sitting in one myself was a completely different feeling. It was peaceful, beautiful and something I will remember for a long time.
Colourful Shikaras Everywhere
When I reached Dal Lake, I saw many colourful Shikaras moving slowly on the water. Some had beautiful decorations and comfortable seats. I was very excited to get inside one and start my ride.
Peaceful on the Water
As soon as the Shikara started moving, I felt very relaxed. The boat was moving slowly through the water, and there was no rush. I could see the beautiful mountains in the distance and their reflection in the lake. The view was so beautiful that I kept taking pictures to save the memories.
One thing I really liked about the Shikara ride was the peaceful environment. The sound of the water, the cool air and the beautiful views made me forget everything else for some time. I just wanted to sit quietly and enjoy the moment.
Life Around the Lake
During the ride, I saw many other Shikaras around us. Some were carrying tourists, while some were being used by local people. I also saw beautiful houseboats on the lake. Seeing them from the water was a very different experience.
There were also small floating shops on Dal Lake. It was interesting to see people selling different things while sitting in their boats. Everything around me felt different from normal city life.
The mountains around the lake made the whole experience even more special. I kept looking at the view and thinking about how lucky I was to experience such a beautiful place. Kashmir is known for its natural beauty, but seeing it from a Shikara made it feel even more special.
A Few Kashmir Souvenirs
I also wanted to bring something back home as a memory of my Kashmir trip. So, I bought a few Kashmir souvenirs.
One of the things I bought was a small handmade wooden Shikara. I liked it because it reminded me of the actual boat ride I had just experienced. Now, whenever I look at it, I remember sitting on Dal Lake and enjoying the beautiful views.

I also bought a small Pahalgam/Kashmir souvenir magnet. It has a beautiful picture of the mountains, flowers and scenery of Kashmir. It may be a small thing, but it has become a special memory from my trip.

I feel that souvenirs are more than just things we buy while travelling. They help us remember the places we visited and the moments we enjoyed. Every time I see my little wooden Shikara, I can remember my peaceful ride on Dal Lake.
Slow, Calm and Peaceful
The Shikara ride was not an exciting or fast activity. It was actually the opposite. It was slow, calm and peaceful, and that is what made it so special for me.
Sometimes, we don't need a big adventure to create a beautiful memory. Sitting quietly on a boat, watching the mountains and enjoying the water can be enough.
A Memory I Brought Home
My Kashmir trip gave me many beautiful memories, but my Shikara ride in Srinagar will always have a special place among them.
And now, the little Shikara and Kashmir magnet that I brought home are small reminders of a beautiful journey.
Some memories stay in our hearts, and some memories stay with us through the little things we bring home.
About the Author
Kirandeep Kaur
I explore technology, simplify complex ideas, and share what I learn along the way — mostly SAP, AI and enterprise tech, sometimes everything else.
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