soundstationent

The houseboats of Kashmir’s Dal Lake have been famous since they were first built by the British during the latter decades of the last century. Prevented by the Maharaja from buying land in Kashmir to build their houses, the British came up with the solution, as only they could, and built their houseboats-little bits of the “old country” floating on the serene, crystal clear waters of the Dal and Nagin Lakes in Srinagar. Used in those days by only their owners and their friends, the houseboats and Kashmir’s wonderful climate were both an escape from the heat of the plains and welcome respite from the rigors of life in Delhi.

Made up of cedar wood, these mesmerizing water boat residences have elegance and are complete with stately living quarters, drawing and dining rooms, carved wooden furniture, glowingly embroidered rugs and fabrics. The large windows of the houseboats provide beautiful views of the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayan Mountains and the pretty Dal Lake with beautiful lotus flowers adorning it. The breathtaking views combined with the silent and serene atmosphere and homely comforts are enough to infuse new lives and rejuvenate the visitors. Shikaras of Kashmir, India are the perfect solution to the hectic, stressful and maddening pace of most of the cities.

Along with some calm and quite, the house boats of Kashmir offer almost all the luxuries of a hotel. You can see a large number of houseboats parked along the Dal Lake, Nagin Lake and Jhelum River. Made of Cedar wood, these houseboats or Shikaras house a dining room, lounge, pantry, 3 or more bedrooms (with attached bathrooms) and even a balcony. Once you stayed in a houseboat, the accommodation of even a five star hotel will look pale to you.

For the honeymooners the houseboats deep in the lake are ideal. The romantic settings of the lake in Kashmir together with the royal setting of the houseboats create magic. There are wide varieties of houseboats, one can choose from, according to one’s needs and requirements. ‘Firdaus’ are known for their grandeur and has three double bedrooms with attached bathrooms, hot and cold water and a lavish living room. ‘Khushal’ is a little smaller with two double bedrooms along with the other desired comforts. However, the most beloved of the honeymooners are ‘Nishat’ and ‘Khushdil’ with one double bedroom, privacy and comforts along with the beautiful views of the lake. The Dal Lake or Nagin Lake of Srinagar is also famous for its ‘Shikaras’, the floating vegetable gardens, the visitors love to have a ride on, to all the way to the Mughals’ Paradise.