Staying on a gorgeous houseboat set on the Dal Lake is something every traveler visiting Kashmir looks forward to. However many of these houseboats are now becoming a menace to the lake because of the pollution they cause, be it plastics, grey water, or even motorboating. Hope Floats, on the other hand, has tried to keep a tab on how much impact they are making on the lake. The property is a heritage houseboat, with the fourth generation of the family now involved in its upkeep and management. Get off your Shikara ride to be welcomed by a home on the water that has beautiful Khatamband ceilings, adorned with Samovar tea kettles, exquisite carpets, and wooden Kashmiri furniture. The hosts live in a cosy home right by the houseboat and are always around if one needs anything and are extremely accommodating and hospitable in true Kashmiri style.
comforts
One is welcomed on the outside deck, which leads to a private verandah/ sit-out. Here one can enjoy a cup of coffee or local tea called Kahwah and marvel at the extraordinary and serene views of the lake and the mountains. Once inside there is a living room that is tastefully designed using local Kashmiri ornaments and artwork. Next comes the dining room, with cabinets full of silverware handed down from generations. After this one walks into a narrow corridor along which there are three beautiful bedrooms. Each bedroom has an attached bathroom with western toilets, a bathtub and hot water. The rooms have large windows that one can open to let the sunlight in. The hosts have a small organic garden in front of their home and are parents to a number of cats.The property is functional all year.
food
The organic farm within the property provides seasonal vegetables and fruits when possible. You can expect fresh, home-cooked traditional Kashmiri meals. (Please do keep in mind that Kashmiri food, in general, is extremely rich and you can tell the hosts to use less oil while cooking if you prefer!). At the property, you can also experience the elaborate Wazwan meal that consists of several non-vegetarian dishes such as Gushtaba, Rista, Tabak Maaz, etc. The Kashmiri pulao is a must-try! There are also several bakeries that serve the famous Walnut Fudge, which is also a must-try for dessert lovers.
ideal for
The houseboat is set at a little distance from the main hustle and bustle of the Dal Lake market and unlike other houseboats, does not face the main road. Hence those who enjoy a calm and peaceful space ideal for nature enthusiasts, couples, families, and small groups will find solace here.
getting there
Located 20 kms from the Srinagar airport. The property is only accessible by a shikara boat. Accurate details will be given at the time of confirmation.
things to do
At the property, there are several Shikara walas who move around selling their wares to tourists. These include items such as saffron, trinkets made of papier mache, fruits, flowers, even kebabs! Take a Shikara ride into the early morning floating market, or choose to take the boat to other corners of the lake. There are several canals one can explore to witness the local lifestyles of people who live on this vast network of water channels. One can do a longer Shikara ride to Nigeen Lake where one can take a swim (it is not advisable to swim in Dal Lake). Apart from that, Srinagar is famous for its shrines, gardens and its heritage streets.
price
The property is priced at Rs. 4,600/night for the standard room and Rs. 5,750 for the suite room inclusive of breakfast and to/fro Shikara transfers.
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