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A shikara ride is a popular and traditional way to explore the serene and picturesque waterways of places like Kashmir in India. Shikaras are long,

Kashmiri cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes, which often incorporate aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. Some popular food items that people in Kashmir enjoy include:

1. Rogan Josh: A signature Kashmiri dish, Rogan Josh is a slow-cooked curry made with tender pieces of meat (usually lamb or goat) in a rich, aromatic gravy. It is flavored with a mix of warming spices, and the dish has a distinctive red color.

2. Gushtaba: This is another classic Kashmiri dish made with minced meat (often mutton) in a rich, creamy yogurt-based gravy. It's seasoned with a blend of spices and is known for its unique taste and texture.

3. Yakhni: Yakhni is a flavorful yogurt-based curry often prepared with mutton or chicken. It's infused with aromatic spices and is known for its light and mild flavor.

4. Dum Aloo: This is a vegetarian dish featuring small, whole potatoes cooked in a rich, spicy tomato-based gravy. The dish is often served with naan or rice.

5. Mutton Keema: Minced mutton is cooked with a mix of spices and often served as a side dish with bread or rice.

6. Matschgand: Matschgand is a popular dish made with minced meatballs, often mutton, in a spicy gravy. It's a flavorful and aromatic dish that's typically enjoyed with steamed rice.

7. Hak Saag: This is a green leafy vegetable dish made with collard greens. It's often simmered in mustard oil and spiced with red chilies.

8. Wazwan: Wazwan is a traditional multi-course feast in Kashmiri cuisine, often served at special occasions like weddings. It includes a variety of dishes, including some of the dishes mentioned above, served in a sequence.

9. Kashmiri Pulao: This fragrant rice dish is made with saffron, dry fruits, and aromatic spices, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.

10. Kahwa: Kahwa is a traditional Kashmiri tea made with green tea leaves, cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, and almonds. It's known for its aromatic and warming qualities and is often served as a welcoming drink to guests.

wooden, and ornately decorated boats, typically rowed by a boatman using a single oar. Here's more information about shikara rides:

1. Location: Shikara rides are most commonly associated with the region of Kashmir, particularly in Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. The iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar is a popular destination for these rides. However, you can also find shikara rides in other water-rich regions of South Asia.

2. Scenic Beauty: Shikara rides offer tourists the opportunity to immerse themselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area. The calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and the snow-capped Himalayan mountains in the distance, create a stunning backdrop for the ride.

3. Activities: Shikara rides are not just about boating; they offer various experiences. During the ride, you can enjoy the mesmerizing view, interact with local vendors in their floating markets (where they sell handicrafts, flowers, and more), and even visit houseboats that line the lakeshores.

4. Houseboats: Some tourists choose to stay in houseboats on Dal Lake or other lakes in the region. These houseboats are essentially floating hotels, and shikaras are often used to transport guests to and from their accommodations.

5. Cultural Experience: Shikara rides can provide a glimpse into the local culture of the region. You might hear the boatman's tales, see floating gardens, and even listen to the melodious notes of traditional Kashmiri music played by local musicians on other shikaras.

6. Sunset and Sunrise Rides: Shikara rides are especially popular during sunrise and sunset, as the changing colors of the sky create a magical atmosphere. These times are perfect for photography and romantic outings.

7. Duration and Cost: The duration of a shikara ride can vary, typically ranging from one to two hours. The cost of the ride can also vary, but it's often quite affordable. Be sure to negotiate the price beforehand or use government-approved rates.

8. Season: The best time for shikara rides in Kashmir is during the spring and summer months when the weather is pleasant, and the gardens are in full bloom. However, you can also enjoy shikara rides in winter when the lakes may be frozen.