If you are planning a trip to Kashmir and want to experience the city like a local, staying in a Houseboat is a must! Here are five reasons why I recommend it that will convince you to stay in a houseboat during your Kashmir trip.
A little bit about Dal Lake
Dal Lake is the second largest lake of Jammu and Kashmir, covering a large part of Srinagar city. You’ll find a plethora of Shikaras and Houseboats floating over the lake giving out a cinematic view. The Shikara is the main transportation carrying tourists, goods, and local people from the houseboat to the shore. The houseboat is where the tourists stay to experience the true essence of the place.
You can hire your Shikara ride from the boat station along the lakeshore, and check the price displayed on the noticeboard to avoid getting overcharged. Here’s a highly rated budget houseboat that I recommend staying in Srinagar.
Reason 1: Staying at Dal lake is a dream in itself
The clear water beneath reflecting like a mirror, and the breathtaking view of the Pir Pinjar Mountains from the balcony is a feast to the eyes. Watch the sunrise with a cup of hot Kahwa. Moreover, you get to interact with locals selling food, flowers, jewelry, etc., on a Shikara. Staying in a houseboat for at least a night will give you a better understanding of their lives and the way they make their living.
Reason 2: For that majestic feeling
When you see a Houseboat for the first time, it is hard to believe that something so glamorous awaits inside. It appears like a regular house from the outside. However, as you enter, you get to see the depth of this place. The houseboat consists of a grand furnished living room, a majestic dining room, two bedrooms, and a balcony with a breathtaking view. Each of the rooms is well-lit and decorated with a Kashmiri handicraft.
Reason 3: For the love of nature
Dal Lake is an abode of nature, surrounded by beautiful snow-capped peaks, floating gardens, and fauna. An excellent place for photography and birding. So hop on to a Shikara and take a tour of the lake.
Reason 4: Floating market at the Dal Lake
This floating market at Dal Lake is where the locals sell their produce in canoes. You can buy seasonal fruits and kesar from this market. You can also take a leisure ride around Dal Lake, exploring the nearby canals.
Pro Tip: The market opens early in the morning. Therefore, book your Shikara ride in advance to avoid any hassle.
Reason 5: Delicious and authentic culinary experience
Kashmir is known for its cuisine, thanks to all those unique spices that make the dishes taste so good. Try the famous Kashmiri Rajma and Rogan josh with the freshest salad and the tastiest dal. The unique flavors of it will surely make your stomach happy.
More resources to plan Kashmir Trip
Here are some articles that I wrote about my Kashmir trip that will help you plan better:
Kashmir tour packages that I recommend:
- Honeymoon Tour (5 Days) – Great for couples
- Explore Kashmir during Tulip Festival (5 Days) – Unique experience
- Kashmir in winter (6 Days) – Low on tourists and high on experience
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