The viral clip shows tourists enjoying the scenic views of Dal Lake when a vendor operating from a boat approaches them and offers fruit chaat for Rs 1,000 per plate. Considering the price excessive, a female tourist begins negotiating with the vendor.
While defending the rate, the vendor explains that the fruit chaat contains a variety of fruits and assures the tourists that the portion size justifies the cost. When asked about the ingredients, he says the dish includes pineapple, apple, mango, muskmelon, and watermelon.
Despite hearing the explanation, the tourist continues to insist that Rs 1,000 is too expensive. The vendor initially offers a 10 percent reduction and later agrees to lower the price further. After repeated negotiations, he eventually agrees to sell the fruit chaat for Rs 800 per plate.
Following the price reduction, the woman agrees to purchase five plates at the negotiated rate and asks the vendor to prepare the order. The video concludes shortly after the deal is finalized.
However, the footage gained traction online with viewers questioning whether prices in Kashmir, particularly around Dal Lake, have become excessively high for tourists.
The video was shared on Instagram by the account Life in Frames Journey 22, where the creator expressed the view that prices on Dal Lake appear to rise dramatically when vendors encounter tourists. The post stated that while Kashmir's natural beauty is priceless, hearing a price of Rs 1,000 for a plate of fruit chaat was difficult to believe.
The creator further remarked that the vendor's confidence while presenting a discounted rate of Rs 900 nearly made them laugh, adding that such an experience could only happen during a shikara ride in Srinagar.
The video has generated extensive debate in the comments section. Some users argued that the fruit chaat shown in the clip was worth no more than Rs 50, while others claimed the video was created primarily to attract attention and stated that the actual price is around Rs 200. Several users also defended the vendor, describing the practice as a profitable business model in a major tourist destination.
The incident has once again highlighted the ongoing debate over tourist pricing, bargaining practices, and perceived overcharging at popular travel destinations. As the video continues to circulate online, it has drawn attention to the differing views of tourists, local vendors, and social media users regarding the value of products sold in high-demand tourism zones.
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