Once amazed by its natural splendour the great Mughal Emperor, Shah Jahan had called it Paradise on Earth and after all these years, Kashmir valley continues to dazzle all eyes with its serenity.
Kashmir tours are one for a lifetime as it opens gates to natures vivacity and showcases angelic beauty not seen elsewhere. While on a tour to Kashmir one is charmed by its geographical assets which includes, mist clad mountains, evergreen forests, beauteous lakes and waterfalls, enticing flower beds, succulent apple groves and rich cultural heritage.
Experiencing the surrounding panorama is made spectacular when travelled on a traditional houseboat in Kashmir. Gliding on the crystal clear waters of Kashmirs lakes the houseboat ride offers stunning panorama. The captivating beauty of lush valleys adds a great backdrop to the houseboat ride perfect for a romantic sojourn. Thus when it comes to the honeymooners a houseboat ride in Kashmir is ideal way to experience Kashmir. Amongst various ravines that flow in the region, Dal Lake and Nagin Lake are the most famous for they enchant their visitors with awe inspiring beauty. Your
Kashmir tour package is incomplete without a houseboat ride.
As the tourism grew in the region, the houseboats were refurbished from traditional to more contemporary ones laced with numerous facilities. Ranging from the basic houseboats to the luxurious ones, these houseboats are available in all the categories making it affordable for all. The dcor is mainly traditional with exquisite paintings, beauteous hand-woven carpets, vintage chandeliers and colourful Kashmiri handicrafts. One can choose from a varied range of houseboats available in Kashmir:
Firdous
These are giant houseboats replete with all the luxuries one could imagine on a cruise. The interiors are decked in royal fashion and are mainly inspired by classic Kashmiri art and handlooms. This houseboat comprises of three double rooms with attached baths, spacious deck and a living room plush with all the comforts of modern world. Thus while floating on the pristine lakes of Kashmir one can indulge in luxuries.
Khushal
Offering two double bedrooms, Khushals are comparable to three star hotel properties. Comparatively lesser number of amenities makes it also bit cheaper than Firdous and ideal ride for smaller families.
Nishat and Kushdil
Majorly opted by honeymooners these houseboats consists of one double bedroom and are laced with a decent set of amenities. The mist clad mountains, verdant valleys and sounds of water rippling together create an ambiance of romance and intimacy.
Shikara
A small wooden boat, Shikara is mainly found on Dal Lake. The boat originally used as a means of transportation is now a major tourist attraction. Shikara has a spade shaped bottom and a driver use oars to row it. Reminiscent of Gondola ride of Venice, a ride on Shikara in Kashmir offers arresting vistas of the valley and the snow-capped mountains around.
A houseboat ride is one of the most popular experiences of
Kashmir tours which attract people from world over. Its charm is such that it has featured in many Indian films as well. Therefore, while in the vicinity one must try one of these houseboats for an incredibly memorable experience.
