Shikara Vendors on Dal Lake: What to Buy and How to Bargain
Floating shops will paddle up to your shikara selling kahwa, saffron, flowers, fruit, jewellery and crafts. What is worth buying, fair prices and how to say no politely.
Quick answerOn a shikara ride, floating vendors will row up selling kahwa, saffron, flowers, fruit, jewellery, papier-mâché and shawls. Kahwa, fruit and flowers are fun, fair-value buys. For saffron and pashmina, check quality carefully or buy from certified shops. A polite, smiling "no, thank you" always works.
One of the joys of a shikara ride is the floating marketplace that finds you. Within minutes of leaving the ghat, a boat piled with flowers glides alongside, then one with kahwa, then one with silver jewellery. Enjoy it, buy what delights you and keep a few tips in mind.
What is worth buying
| Item | Our view |
|---|---|
| Kahwa | A lovely moment on the water; buy a cup |
| Fruit and snacks | Fresh and convenient |
| Flowers and seeds | Pretty souvenirs; check plant import rules if travelling abroad |
| Papier-mâché and small crafts | Good gifts; compare prices with shops |
| Saffron | Only if you can check quality; GI-certified shops are safer. See our saffron guide. |
| Pashmina | Buy certified pieces from reputable shops. See the handicrafts guide. |
How to bargain fairly
- Ask the price first, then offer a fair counter; bargaining is expected for crafts, less so for kahwa.
- Do not start bargaining unless you intend to buy.
- Remember vendors earn their living from short seasons; a little generosity goes a long way.
Saying no
If you are not interested, a smile and "no, thank you" is enough. Your shikara boatman can also signal to vendors that you would like a quiet ride. Tell him before you set off if you prefer that.
Best time
Vendors are most active on sunset and early-morning rides in the tourist season. For a quieter experience, try a ride on Nigeen Lake. Our shikara ride guide has routes and rates.
Book your shikara ride
Our packages include a shikara ride on Dal Lake. Ask for a sunset or dawn ride in your plan through Get My Travel Plan, or start with the 3 nights 4 days package.
Plan the rest of your Kashmir trip
- Dal Lake Floating Vegetable Market: Before sunrise, farmers paddle their produce out onto Dal Lake to trade from boat to boat.
- Kashmir Tour Packages from Every State of India: Travelling from any of India's 28 states? Find the fastest route to Srinagar, how many nights to plan, the best season for your region and a link to your state's full…
- Best Time to Visit Kashmir: Spring tulips, summer meadows, golden autumn chinars or deep winter snow: here is what each month in Kashmir is really like, and who it suits best.
Frequently asked questions
What do floating vendors sell on Dal Lake?
Kahwa, saffron, flowers, fruit, jewellery, papier-mâché and shawls, among other things.
Is it safe to buy saffron from shikara vendors?
Only if you can check quality. GI-certified shops are a safer choice.
How do I avoid vendors on a shikara ride?
Tell your boatman before you set off that you want a quiet ride, and politely decline offers.