Top Houseboats at Dal Lake Srinagar

The Dal Lake in Srinagar is the poster child of Kashmir tourism. Also known as Srinagar’s jewel, this vast sheet of pristine, still water reflecting the towering peaks of the snow-capped Pir Panjal ranges is a delight to behold. The floating markets and shikaras painted in vibrant hues add to the mesmerising charm of this sublime attraction. Just the way no Kashmir trip is complete without a visit to the Dal Lake, you experience of this lake is not complete until you have stayed at one of the houseboats that exude the opulence from a bygone royal era. Here are the top three houseboats at Dal Lake for you to choose from to live up this experience to the fullest:

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Montreal Group of Houseboats

Dating back to 1974, the Montreal Group of Houseboats is one of the oldest in Srinagar, set up by an enterprising native long before houseboats became synonymous with the idea of Kashmir. Over the decades, the fleet of houseboats has grown and improved to offer guests a comfortable, relaxing cocoon with all modern amenities, away from the din of the city. Today Montreal has five luxury houseboats with a total of 23 rooms, each with a private sitting area, so you can lap up the raw natural beauty at your own pace. The backyard of these houseboats comprises a lush garden that not only enhances the overall ambience but also serves as an idyllic setting for parties, DJ nights or spending a quiet evening outdoors with a bonfire to keep you warm. The houseboats are strategically stationed to offer a panoramic view of the lake and also offer easy access to all key tourist attractions in Srinagar. Use your time here being spoilt silly with Kashmiri hospitality, besides indulging in swimming, canoeing and boating.

Price: INR 1,720 per night (approx)*

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Appollo Eleven Group of Houseboat

The Appollo Eleven Group houseboats are the perfect embodiment of the Kashmiri architecture and hospitality. Made from finest cedar wood and furnished with walnut wood carved furniture and wall to wall carpeting, these houseboats transport you to a quintessential Kashmiri home in an instant. Blending this traditional appeal with modern day comforts, these make for a perfect haven to enjoy the virgin landscape of Srinagar. You have a dedicated server at your disposal, who is your cook, guide, steward and boatman rolled into one. Look forward to some serious pampering with a lot of uninterrupted time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings, catch up on some reading or bonding with your significant other. Starting your day with a piping hot kahwah served on the houseboat balcony and following it up with a hearty dose of delectable Kashmiri delicacies is undoubtedly going to be the highlight of your stay here. You also get your own shikara that you can take out for a boating trip on the Dal Lake or for reaching the other end to explore the alleys of Srinagar.

Price: INR 1,562 per night (approx)*

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Badyari Palace Houseboat

Done up in vibrant hues of red and yellow juxtaposed against the earthy brown wood-panelled walls and adorned with imposing chandeliers, the Badyari Palace Houseboat has an unmistakable royal appeal. The houseboat premises host an in-house restaurant and bar, a full-blown water park with a host of on-site water sports activities and a dedicated well-equipped play arena for children. You also get access to your own private beach area for swimming into the lake waters. The houseboat management organizes various activities for the guests such as fishing, skiing, hiking and evening entertainment programs. Though you don’t have a private kitchenette here, the in-house restaurant provides room service and has some irresistible Kashmiri delicacies on the menu. The biggest drawcard for the Badyari Palace Houseboat is that it is one of the few pet-friendly houseboats in all of Srinagar, so if you like to holiday with your furry baby in tow, you know where to book your stay.

Price: INR 1,383 per night (approx)*

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Houseboats dotting the periphery of Dal Lake offer a one-of-its-kind experience, the memory of which will stay with you for a long time. Pick from some of the best Srinagar has to offer to make that experience count.

*Prices may vary