From Dal Lake Inspiration to Bhopal Reality: Eco Shikara Now Glide on Upper Lake Waters

Published on December 7, 2025

Madhya Pradesh now has an eco-friendly initiative for tourists to experience the city’s Upper Lake (Bada Talab). Madhya Pradesh has now introduced Shikara boat rides adding nature, and culture and sustaining the “City of Lakes”. Shikara Kashmiri boats inspire the eco-friendly rides as the state practices green tourism.

A Sustainable Travel Experience

The government of Madhya Pradesh has introduced 20 Shikara boats that stand out due to their eco-friendly construction. These boats are crafted using fiber-reinforced polyurethane and non-reactive coatings, materials that help maintain the water’s purity and preserve the lake’s ecosystem. Manufactured by a renowned company known for building eco-friendly boats in Kerala, Bengal, and Assam, these Shikaras are built to last while minimizing environmental impact.

The fleet aims to offer visitors a pollution-free boating experience while ensuring the lake remains pristine. With this launch, the state demonstrates its dedication to sustainable tourism practices, which aim to balance economic growth and ecological preservation.

An Immersive Cultural and Scenic Experience

The Shikara rides offer much more than a boat trip. Visitors can enjoy an immersive cultural experience, combining natural beauty with regional flavors and traditional crafts. The serene boat rides provide the perfect opportunity for bird-watching. Equipped with binoculars, tourists can spot a wide variety of bird species, adding an educational dimension to the experience.

Moreover, the Shikara rides are designed to showcase local cuisine and craftsmanship. Tourists can enjoy delicious regional snacks like poha and samosas, which are popular in the area. Additionally, organic products and traditional handicrafts made by local artisans are available for purchase on board. This helps support local entrepreneurship and fosters community engagement, giving tourists a deeper connection to the region’s culture.

Supporting Local Communities and Economy

A key aspect of the Shikara initiative is its role in promoting local communities. The launch has created new economic opportunities for local artisans, farmers, and craftspeople. Handicrafts, handloom products, and agri-based tourism are now vital parts of this new tourism offering. By supporting these local industries, the initiative contributes to the broader goal of community empowerment and sustainable development.

The project also opens avenues for entrepreneurship, as local communities actively participate in various aspects of the tourism experience. Visitors are encouraged to interact with artisans, learn about traditional crafts, and even purchase unique souvenirs, further enriching their experience and supporting the local economy.

Tourism and Conservation Efforts in Madhya Pradesh

The introduction of eco-friendly Shikaras is part of a broader strategy to promote responsible tourism in Madhya Pradesh. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, the state has been focusing on sustainable tourism practices that prioritize environmental conservation, while simultaneously enhancing the tourism experience for both domestic and international visitors.

This initiative also aligns with the state’s goal to build a greener, cleaner tourism sector, which is not only attractive but also socially responsible. By combining natural beauty with sustainable practices, Madhya Pradesh sets a new standard for tourism that is both environmentally conscious and culturally enriching.

A Step Toward Experiential Tourism

Madhya Pradesh is positioning itself as a destination for experiential tourism, where travelers can enjoy more than just sightseeing. The Shikara rides are designed to offer an authentic experience that merges nature, culture, and sustainable practices. This initiative aims to attract eco-conscious travelers who seek to explore destinations that promote environmental stewardship while supporting local communities.

The state government has emphasized the importance of integrating traditional values with modern tourism. The Shikara rides on Bhopal’s Upper Lake offer a perfect blend of heritage and innovation, ensuring that the tourism sector remains relevant and responsible.

Travel Guide for Visitors

For travelers planning to experience the Shikara rides, the best way to access the boats is through Bhopal’s Boat Club, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The serene lake offers a peaceful environment to enjoy the boat ride while taking in views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors are encouraged to bring their cameras to capture the stunning views and unique bird species they may encounter.

The Shikara rides are available throughout the day, with different time slots to accommodate a range of schedules. For those interested in learning more about the local culture, the onboard guides offer insights into the history of Bhopal, its lakes, and the surrounding ecosystem.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, it’s recommended that travelers book their Shikara ride in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Local eateries near the lake also serve regional delicacies, providing an opportunity to sample traditional Bhopal food.

Conclusion

This is the first time eco-friendly Shikara boat rides have been introduced at Upper Lake in Bhopal which is a first for the whole state of Madhya Pradesh as well. Bhopal is Madhya Pradesh’s most popular lake city in India and is home to a popular tourist destination. The eco-shikara rides and paddle boat rentals are sustainable and responsibly integrated within the community’s cultural heritage. The Shikara boat rides exemplify Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to building sustainable tourism that carefully balances the economic and social needs of the integrated paddling community while protecting the state’s natural eco-systems and wildlife.