Updated on May 24th, 2026
If there is a heaven on earth, it is here; it is here; it is here! – Beautifully quoted by Emperor Jahangir on Kashmir back in the 17th century, the quote holds true even today. Words of quote are Agar firdaus bar roo-e zameen ast, Hameen ast-o, hameen ast-o, hameen ast! When you visit Kashmir, you feel that nothing in this statement is exaggerated. The beauty of Srinagar has fascinated tourists for centuries with its beautiful, picturesque Himalayan backdrop. It always fascinated me to visit this paradise. In December 2018, we planned a family trip. We opted to fly from Amritsar to Srinagar.
In the past few decades, Kashmir has been portrayed with the colours of terror. Media reports have played a negative role. But I experienced that a few tales are just in the media and Bollywood stories, not in the ground realities. In reality, wherever you go in Kashmir, you find people who are very gentle and soft-spoken.
The beauty of the Kashmir Valley is beyond description. With the gushing rivers, shiny waterfalls, picturesque surroundings, and lush green forests, it has always appealed to tourists. So many writers, filmmakers, and poets described the beauty of Kashmir as unmatched. Srinagar is in the heart of Kashmir, so the beauty of Srinagar is also beyond description. Here, I am sharing my thoughts on this beautiful land.
Shikaras & House Boats of Dal Lake
While in Srinagar, you can’t ignore the role of Shikara in day-to-day life. These small boats are a very important part of the lives of Kashmiris living in Srinagar. In Dal Lake, these boats are like lifelines, helping people to move from one place to another. Right from routine things of life, like vegetables, fruits, bakery goods, dry fruits, and even services like doctors and tailoring, you will find everything on these small boats.
Tourists enjoy rides on these boats. These rides offer breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings. I still remember the joyous ride we had. I suggest going for a ride in the evening so you can enjoy the reflections and changing colours of the skyline against snow-clad mountains. We also enjoyed the eatables offered by other sellers’ boats. We clicked a few memorable moments. Dal Lake’s splendour is unmatched in terms of natural beauty. Spending evenings floating in a Shikara and buying eatables and other things makes moments unforgettable, lifelong. You can relish the lip-smacking, authentic Kashmiri delicacies. Just relax and take this time to rejuvenate your mind and soul.
Spend a few nights in the houseboats
Spending a few nights in a houseboat is one of the best things to do while you are in Srinagar. It cannot be as luxurious as staying in a five-star hotel, but it will still be a memorable experience. We can say houseboats are a perfect blend of comfort & luxury at an affordable price. No trip can be completed without staying in a houseboat. Proximity to nature will certainly make your trip a lifelong memory. There are a lot of boats for you to choose from, a few of which have all the facilities.
During my trip in April 2018, we stayed in a houseboat named King’s Boat for almost one week. It was systematically and beautifully managed, nowhere less than a pleasant hotel. Everything about the boat was royal – from the decor to the view to the service. We enjoyed ourselves a lot with all the comforts. Mornings and evenings at the lake relax your mind and soul, and such moments always remain fresh in your memory.
Our Experience at the Houseboat
Each morning, we would embark on a small boat ride to explore the city’s fascinating attractions. The gentle ripples of the lake and the picturesque surroundings added an extra touch of magic to our daily journeys. The hospitality on the houseboat was exceptional. Shany, the houseboat boy, treated us like royalty, ensuring our every need was met. From the warm welcome to the personalised service, we felt pampered throughout our stay.
One of the highlights of the trip was the delicious Kashmiri cuisine served on board. Every meal was a delightful adventure of flavours, introducing us to the region’s rich culinary heritage. We couldn’t resist trying various local delicacies, leaving our taste buds truly satisfied. The April weather in Srinagar brought occasional rainfall, which only enhanced the beauty of our surroundings. The raindrops dancing on the lake’s surface created a serene ambience, and we found ourselves lost in the soothing rhythm of nature.
In the evenings, we would relax on the deck of King’s Boat, savouring the breathtaking sunsets over the horizon. The combination of the setting sun, the calming waters, and the distant calls to prayer created an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
Relaxing on the deck and watching the mesmerising sunrise and sunset will be a wonderful experience. I still remember the quality and taste of food, veg & non-veg, served to us by the houseboat boy, Shany, from their own kitchen. He did everything on the boat, from keeping it clean to making sure our meals were served on time. He was also our guide to other places in Kashmir.
Going back in the history of houseboats
The origin of the concept of houseboats in Srinagar dates back to the British period, when the king of Kashmir, Gulab Singh, didn’t allow British people to buy land or carry out any construction in the valley. Then, small houseboats were constructed to stay on Dal Lake, and in those days, they moved on the water. These days, houseboats are not moving on the lake. They anchored these to one side of the lake. All basic amenities a traveller needs, such as electricity, toilets, and hot & cold water, are available.
Lotuses and the Floating Market of Dal Lake
While being on Dal Lake, you can experience shopping at the floating market. This market is a famous tourist attraction in Srinagar. Tourists and locals buy daily needs, including fruits and vegetables. Kashmiris sell their produce at floating markets, sourced from their floating gardens. There are many floating gardens and vegetation that may astonish you. This is the primary source of income for farmers and lake dwellers. This wonderful scene also portrays the lives of local Kashmiris, giving you insight into the Kashmiri way of life. Another beautiful thing is that countless blooming lotuses and lilies greet you on either side of the shikara when you go on an early morning trip to the lake.
Another memorable experience was the shikhara shopping. These ornate wooden boats adorned with vibrant handicrafts and souvenirs added a touch of colourful elegance to the lake. We couldn’t resist exploring the floating markets and purchasing unique treasures to cherish as mementoes of our trip.
The beautiful hill town of Gulmarg
While in Srinagar, you can’t miss the beautiful hill town of Gulmarg. Known for its snow-covered slopes, it is globally renowned for skiing and other winter activities. There are so many Ski resorts offering training courses to adventure seekers.
Another attraction is a cable car that takes visitors to Mt. Apharwat, from where you can enjoy panoramic Himalayan views. Asia’s largest and highest, and the world’s second-largest and second-highest cable car project. Enjoying cable car rides is perfect for families, romantic couples, and adventure seekers. The scenic views of mountains and valleys during the cable car ride are also unforgettable and unmatched. Gulmarg town is the starting point of the ride, and the top of Apharwat peak is the endpoint. Kongdoor is the centre point in between. Kongdoor Mountain, from which skiers have access to many easy runs through the trees and to the groomed but narrow slopes.
Whether you try skiing on a sloppy track of snow or just watch others doing so, a Gulmarg winter is definitely one of the most special experiences. If you are fond of this adventurous activity, then the best time to go is from December to April. Still, it depends on snowfall levels.
Valley of Shepherds, Pahalgam
Another beautiful place to visit, while you are in Srinagar, is Pahalgam. We also know it as the “Valley of Shepherds”, in the Anantnag District of Kashmir. On the banks of the River Lidder, this beautiful place is full of lush meadows, verdant forests, sky-kissing mountains, and apple orchards. There are many spots for camping, sightseeing, trekking, pilgrimage yatra, whitewater rafting, and fishing. We enjoyed a day at this beautiful place.
We are all well aware of Bollywood’s unending love for Kashmir and its surroundings. The famous movie starring Sunny Deol was shot in Pahalgam, and, interestingly, the valley was renamed Betaab Valley after the movie. Betaab Valley was previously known as Hagan Valley or Hagoon. The Betaab Valley is popular among trekkers, serving as a base camp for many treks that continue farther into the mountains.
Zorbing in Pahalgam
Zorbing is a recreational sport performed in a large, inflated, transparent ball. They do Zorbing on slightly hilly slopes or even on an artificial surface. While in Pahalgam, you can simply ask for zorbing. Baisaran, Pahalgam, is a valley where you can try this fun adventure game. This is a perfect place for this activity, surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-clad mountains.
Other places in India where you can go Zorbing include Khajjiar, New Delhi, Manali, and a few others. In the last, I feel Kashmir, and in particular Srinagar, has a lot to offer to make a vacation trip a lifelong memory. It is one of the best places to travel in India.
During our trip to Srinagar, Bhawana, Deep, Atinder, Rajni, and little Armaan were all part of the adventure, and every single one of us had an absolute blast. From exploring the city together to staying on the charming King’s Boat, we shared laughter, unforgettable moments, and a true sense of camaraderie. The joy of experiencing the delicious food, the enchanting rainy environment, and the fun shikhara shopping was amplified by the wonderful company we had. It was truly a trip filled with joy and cherished memories for all of us!
Master’s in Tourism and Recreation (M.A.) at EIIET Berlin
Master’s in Tourism and Recreation program, offered by the esteemed Institute of Berlin (EIIET) in partnership with the University of Tourism and Hotel Management (WSTiH). This intensive two-year postgraduate course meticulously equips ambitious students with the advanced skills and knowledge to position themselves as financial and strategic leaders in the ever-evolving tourism industry.
8 Comments
Memoirs of Kashmir melts everyone’s heart those who have to spend the fine part of their life over there. Intricate details written by you make tears roll -down your cheeks …
I salute you, Sir.
Shamsher Singh, Thanks a lot for adding such nice words. Keep reading more blogs.
Woww.. I have always been fascinated with the tales of beautiful valley of Kashmir since childhood but as you have stated the portrayal of it in media did deter away my mind to visit. After reading your beautiful experience I feel like going there.
Anu, Thanks for your feedback. You must visit it. It’s certainly a beautiful place and a must visit.
Sir
Your words melted my heart
Thanks for sharing memories from beautiful Srinagar. We went there. Reading the blog refreshed so many wonderful moments. Your writings inspire all of us to see life from a positive perspective. Keep writing.
Awesome….. You just beautifully familiarise this beautiful town by elaborating all the fundamental aspects of this dream valley.
Gurpreet, Thanks for adding supporting words, that means a lot.