Kashmir is synonymous with kahwa, tulip gardens, Gondola rides, and shikara boats. And while all that deserves to be on your itinerary, we recommend staying in a houseboat to elevate your getaway to newer heights. Anchored in the pristine waters of the Dal and Nigeen Lakes, Kashmir houseboats promise an endearing tryst with culture, opulence, and hospitality.
Moored along the lakes, these luxury vessels offer sweeping views of the valley, floating markets, and sweet-scented flowers. Read on to learn more about these special accommodations.
What are houseboats?
Essentially a boat where people can stay, houseboats usually have a decadent roof held together using wooden hulls. Unlike the ones in Alleppey (Kerala), the Kashmir houseboats don’t sail. They stand still, offering an idyllic mid-water stay to anyone seeking the ultimate local experience.
Kashmiri houseboats are completely made of cedar wood — which stays healthy despite being in water. Inside, the furniture is sculpted using walnut wood; intricate carvings on the furniture and ceiling are a unique feature of the houseboats. Typically furnished with 1 to 5 bedrooms with attached washrooms, the houseboats also feature lush living rooms, a common dining area, and spacious balconies — all laced together with authentic Kashmiri decor.
Types of houseboats in Kashmir
Determined to stay in a houseboat? Allow us to introduce you to the various options that will help you make an informed choice. For starters, there’s Firdaus — teeming with grandeur, this huge houseboat has 3 bedrooms and an indulgent living area, decorated tastefully with Kashmiri handicrafts.
We recommend the cosy 1-bedroom houseboats — Nishat and Kushdil — for honeymooners. With modern facilities, scenic views of the lake, and uncompromised privacy, they make for the perfect pick. For family getaways, look no further than Gulshan and Clermont — they come with 2 hospitable bedrooms, verandahs, and porches treating you to the views of snow-clad mountains. Lastly, there’s Kushal — 2-bedroom houseboats that bear all the hallmarks of luxury. Plush furniture, authentic decor, and sumptuous meals — you name it and they have it.
Best houseboats to book in Kashmir
Experience unmatched luxury onboard these houseboat stays in Kashmir:
Naaz Kashmir
Perched along the Nigeen Lake, Naaz Kashmir weaves a leisurely sojourn with Kashmiri interiors and modern amenities like WiFi, and centrally heated/air-conditioned rooms.
Whether it is an assortment of Bollywood movies in the lounge area, a dedicated library, or delectable meals spanning Kashmiri, Chinese, and Continental cuisines, Naaz Kashmir offers it all. In addition to the luxe interiors, guests can go water-skiing, rent bicycles, take a shikara ride, or plan a hearty barbecue dinner.
Sukoon
Anchored along the Dal Lake, Sukoon features 5 elegant bedrooms, an open sundeck and terrace, and breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range. This eco-friendly houseboat delights with hot tubs and rain showers and comes stocked with organic bath products.
Guests can relish candle-lit dinners and sunset soirées at Fizza, the houseboat’s exotic sundeck. To cultivate shared experiences, pre-book a cooking lesson onboard the boat. The locals will help you catch freshwater fish, buy vegetables and fruits from the floating markets, and ultimately rustle up a lake-to-table meal together. Go the extra mile and book a water safari on Sukoon’s luxe shikara boats.
Mascot Houseboats
Berthed on the Nigeen Lake, Mascot Houseboats feature ornate wooden carvings, Persian rugs, and grand chandeliers. The traditional architecture is complemented by luxurious amenities like jacuzzis, hot tubs, minibars, flat-screen TVs, and dedicated fireplaces.
Pick from the 6 rooms offering surreal views of the lake or the Zabarwan range. Onboard, treat yourself to Kashmiri delicacies, a cosy barbecue, board games, or a day of fishing. You can even ask the staff to arrange a day of watersports for you.
Harmukh Houseboat
Another splendid houseboat on the Nigeen Lake is Harmukh — a 2-bedroom paradise with an upper deck and balconies that frame the scenic lake and mountains. The intricate wood-panelled interiors, handwoven rugs, and ornate ceilings take you back in time.
Onboard the houseboat, indulge in a complimentary buffet and à la carte breakfast, endless refills of piping-hot kahwa, or purchase fresh produce from the shikaras floating alongside. Additionally, the work desks, flat-screen TVs, and refrigerators ensure that convenience and luxury are not compromised.
Welcomheritage Gurkha Houseboats
Nestled in the mirror-calm waters of Nigeen Lake, the Welcomheritage Gurkha Houseboats offer 18 rooms with dedicated gardens or verandahs.
Bask in regality as you sink into the 4-poster beds. Jacuzzis, minibars, TVs, and scintillating views of the Pir Panjal range are all a part of the package. Additionally, savour the sumptuous dishes, a popular favourite being the 36-dish Kashmiri wazwan.
How to book Kashmir houseboats?
While houseboats can be booked online, one must consider necessary factors like location, accessibility, and logistics before making a decision. For a bustling neighbourhood with lively activities, book a houseboat on Dal Lake. If you fancy serenity and calm, opt for a houseboat on Nigeen Lake. Additionally, some houseboats can only be reached via a shikara boat, while others are accessible by car. So, phone the property before arrival to get clarity on the logistics.
Prices of houseboats in Kashmir
Based on the hospitality and amenities, one can book a mid-range houseboat between INR 4,000 (USD 48) to INR 7,000 (USD 84) per night. The luxury houseboats start at INR 9,000 (USD 108) and go higher.
Best time to stay on Kashmir houseboat
While the warmer months promise tulips in full bloom, clear skies, and stunning views, winter in Kashmir also poses a unique experience. Most houseboats are centrally heated, offer hot tubs, and are equipped with generators. So, regardless of the season, you can witness different shades of Kashmir through the seasons, from the luxury of your houseboat.
All currency conversions were done at the time of writing
Main and Feature Image Credit: Divya Agrawal/Unsplash
Related: In Pictures: Enjoy The Enchanting Beauty Of Snow-Covered Kashmir
FAQs
What are the amenities available on a houseboat in Kashmir?
Kashmiri houseboats offer a wide range of amenities like high-speed WiFi, hot tubs, Jacuzzis, sumptuous meals, TVs, sundecks, and much more.
Do houseboats in Kashmir have a view of the Himalayan mountains?
Yes, most houseboats in Kashmir offer surreal views of the Himalayan mountain ranges like Pir Panjal, as well as the Zabarwan range. Additionally, the houseboats also offer views of Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, depending on where your houseboat is.
Is staying on a houseboat a unique experience compared to traditional hotels in Kashmir?
Yes, staying on a houseboat is a unique experience. You can witness the floating markets, take shikara rides, or just enjoy views of the mountains and lakes from your mid-water lodging.
Can I enjoy traditional Kashmiri cuisine on a houseboat?
Yes, most houseboats prepare traditional Kashmiri cuisine, in addition to other cuisines like Continental, Indian, Asian, etc.
Are houseboats pet-friendly?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on all houseboats. It’s best to confirm with the staff in advance.
Written By
Yashita Vashishth
Writer by day, reader by night, Yashita has a flair for all things travel, wellness and food. She has previously worked at Condé Nast India and Times Internet. When not working, you can catch her binge-reading the latest thriller on the block, re-watching Friends, trying a new recipe or hosting her friends.
