 The houseboats on the majestic and pristine Dal Lake increase its beauty and these are the resting spots of the tourists. They are well furnished and provide you the state of the state of the art facilities. The exotic cushion laden Shikara rides from Dal Lake make you feel proud and give you the feeling of complete merging with the beauty of Kashmir. It is said that the British used to live in houseboats as maharaja did not offer them land to stay.
The state of Srinagar has grew to become a great tourist destination because it has developed and cared for its uniqueness within a ideal manner. Houseboats in J&K serve as the very best meduim to fulfill your dream of staying as close to nature as possible. They have made people's fantasy of living on the water come true. Facing the majestic Himalayas and offering the pleasant sounds of rolling waters, these houseboats are the greatest attraction in Kashmir.
One can experience the stunning beauty of these houseboats and the natural surroundings on Dal Lake, Nagin Lake and Jhelum River. Houseboats as old as 50 years can also be seen in Kashmir. Earlier used by the people of fishing communities only, these boats today are not merely a tourist attraction rather a place where the use of unique Kashmiri handirafts can be seen (in furniture, carpets etc.). They are completely made of wood and provide guests with homely environment, quiet surroundings and enchanting views outside. Quite similar to a fully furnished house, they offer you proper living rooms, drawing and dining rooms, carved wooden furnitures, and beautifully decorated interiors.
Firdous : These houseboats are very grand and huge in their looks as well as construction. The royal Firdous has three double bedrooms with attached bathrooms, hot and cold water, living room. There are proper facilities for electricity and cooking. The balcony space is big enough to seat a group of friends.
Kushal : Khushal is comparatively smaller than Firdous. It has two double bedrooms and all other desired comforts similar to a three or four star hotel room. The design of the rooms and furniture is unique. It is best for family holidays.
Nishat : Nishat is the favorite houseboat for honeymooners. It comprises of one double bedroom and offers all the comforts of privacy, facing the lake.
Kushdil : Kushdil is again the favorite of newly wed couples or honeymooners, and it too has one double bedroom. It has all modern facilities for its guests.
Gulshan : It is a two double bedroom boat with a verandah in front. Meant for family vacations, this houseboat provides outstanding view of the snow clad peaks from the verandah.
Clermont Too : Another two double bedroom boat, the Clermont Too offers vacations with ultimate cozy atmosphere and privacy. It is excellent for those who love to spend their holidays on waters in solitude.
The credit for initiating the trend of living inside a houseboat in Kashmir goes towards the British residents who were prohibited to own land by the Maharaja of Kashmir. As a result, they built their residences on water. Today, it is more than just a house on the lake. Almost all the major rivers and lakes in Kashmir offer houseboat cruises towards the tourists. These houseboats can also be used for shikara rides (basically wandering in the lake), or sunbathing on the top-deck
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