One is compelled to picture the vibrant shikaras and houseboats cruising the sparkling lakes whenever Kashmir is mentioned. Every tourist to Kashmir wants to spend a few days in a boathouse on the Dal Lake.

If you haven’t experienced the unique houseboat experience in Kashmir, which is one of the region’s top attractions, your journey to Kashmir would be completed.

Kashmiri Houseboats

Kashmiri houseboats have a long history that stretches back to the 13th century; back then, they were utilized more for private purposes than for tourism. For those who built boats to live on the lake, it was a way of life. The maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir forbade the British from purchasing real estate in the early days, thus only East India Company employees were permitted to construct and reside in houseboats. Today, the Kashmir Valley is home to more than a thousand houseboats, the most of which are used for tourists.

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The Dal Lake, Jhelum Lake, and Nagin Lake are just a few of the most picturesque lakes where Kashmiri houseboats can be found docked. The houseboats resemble a combination of a hotel and a floating residence. The delicate woodwork that adorns the houseboats, which have been carefully built, showcases the exquisite art and superior workmanship of Kashmiri artisans.

Victorian and Turkish architectural styles are displayed in numerous cosily decorated chambers throughout the sumptuous interiors of the houseboats in Kashmir. The majority of wood carvings include Chinar trees and other essential elements of Kashmiri culture. The interiors’ cosy atmosphere is enhanced by its classically designed ceilings, wood panelling, and hand-carved cedar panelled walls. Traditional Kashmiri carpets wrap the flooring thickly, keeping your feet warm throughout the winter.

Although they all have different names, the stationary houseboats all have a similar appearance. Depending on how big the houseboat is, they can hold two or three bedrooms with bathrooms. There is a communal living space where everyone can hang out, as well as a dining area where delectable meals may be had. The boathouse is equipped with heaters for the rooms.

A front-facing balcony and a guest sun deck are additional features of the houseboats. A committed staff and a kitchen are also available to serve the visitors. The Kashmiri houseboats offer 3-star amenities, opulent decor, and all the necessities, including laundry, 100% power backup, WiFi, a small library, and other amenities.

Vacationers organise a houseboat tour to Kashmir in anticipation of taking advantage of the special experience.

The exclusive experience

Families, friendship groups, and individuals of all ages take pleasure in houseboat cruises. The honeymooners who enjoy spending romantic evenings in the houseboat view them as the ideal vacation.

These houseboats are encircled by serene nature on all sides, so no matter where on the vessel one is, they all offer breathtaking views. Experience the beauty of a houseboat while enjoying absolute seclusion.

You will have an extravagant appearance and experience thanks to the princely artefacts, embroidered carpets, and lavish décor. You could even feel inclined to stay inside the entire day to take advantage of the Kashmiris’ friendliness and hospitality. Authentic Kashmiri living, where one is treated more like a family member than a visitor, may be experienced aboard a houseboat.

Enjoy freshly made delectable Kashmiri foods while staying in immaculately clean rooms with king-size beds. It does sound like the ideal vacation to have a delicious meal in a floating room or over a barbecue. You have the opportunity to savour authentic Kashmiri cuisine prepared at home.

Visitors can enjoy shopping aboard houseboats where a variety of merchants sail all day selling handicrafts, food, flowers, and even barbecued delicacies. The merchants on the water, often referred to as floating shops, provide a wide range of goods, including paper mache, carpets, jewellery, and shawls. As well as dry fruits, one can purchase locally grown fruits such apples, cherries, and grapes.

You can get a unique experience while vacationing on a houseboat in Kashmir by riding on gondolas or shikara. You can definitely anticipate an exciting ride in one of those vibrant Shikaras because this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Living by a lake can be a divine and peaceful experience. Imagine sipping a steaming cup of tea in the morning while watching the lake and valley pass by from the window of your houseboat. You can amuse yourself while travelling and while residing in the houseboat.

The owner of the houseboat will arrange the best transportation options and keeps an eye out for the best airfare discounts and interesting local experiences for you. He will show you the greatest places to eat, drink, and shop for high-quality handicrafts in the city as well as the top spas.

Tips for selecting a houseboat for stay in Kashmir

The experience of staying on a houseboat is a must-have, but it’s up to you to choose the best ones. Keep in mind the following advice:

Keep an eye on the area and occupy a site that is largely empty on the serene and tranquil lake.

Examine the access because some houseboats can only be reached by shikara while others also have access through road.

The price of a houseboat might vary depending on its size and kind, therefore one should aim to acquire the greatest experience possible given their financial constraints.

Make sure the houseboat has a generator in operation so that it can provide 24-hour hot water, wireless Internet, and television due to the regular power outages.

A family-run houseboat guarantees a more individualized experience and worthwhile stay. But before you reserve a spot on a houseboat, read the reviews.

Being on a houseboat in Kashmir is a once-in-a-lifetime experience since you can spend special time with your loved one or family while also taking in Kashmir’s natural beauty. For more information about houseboat stay in Kashmir contact C Himalaya one of the best travel agents in Kashmir.