Updated on November 7th, 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. The words 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. Srinagar’s beauty has fascinated tourists for centuries, with its picturesque Himalayan backdrop. I have always wanted 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 colors of terror. Media reports have played a negative role. But I found that some tales are just media and Bollywood stories, not ground reality. 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 have described Kashmir’s beauty as unmatched. Srinagar lies in the heart of Kashmir, so its beauty is beyond description. Here, I am sharing my thoughts on this beautiful land.
Shikaras & Houseboats of Dal Lake
In Srinagar, you can’t ignore the role of the Shikara in day-to-day life. These small boats are an important part of the lives of Kashmiris in Srinagar. In Dal Lake, these boats are like lifelines, helping people to move from one place to another. From everyday items like vegetables, fruits, bakery goods, and dry fruits to services like doctors and tailoring, you can 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 our joyous ride. I suggest going for a ride in the evening to enjoy the reflections and changing colors of the skyline against snow-clad mountains. We also enjoyed the food offered by other sellers on the boats. We clicked a few memorable moments. Dal Lake’s natural beauty is unmatched. Spending evenings floating in a Shikara, buying snacks and other items, makes the moments unforgettable and 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 may not be as luxurious as a five-star hotel, but it will still be a memorable experience. Houseboats are a perfect blend of comfort & luxury at an affordable price. No trip can be completed without staying in a houseboat. Being close to nature will make your trip a lifelong memory. You have plenty of boats to choose from, and some offer all the facilities.
During my trip in April 2018, we stayed in a houseboat named King’s Boat for almost one week. It was managed systematically and beautifully, no 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 these moments stay fresh in your memory.
Our Experience at the Houseboat
Each morning, we took a short boat ride to explore the city’s fascinating attractions. The lake’s gentle ripples and picturesque surroundings added an extra touch of magic to our daily journeys. The houseboat hospitality was exceptional. Shany, the houseboat boy, treated us like royalty and ensured our every need was met. From the warm welcome to the personalized service, we felt pampered throughout our stay.
One highlight of the trip was the delicious Kashmiri cuisine served on board. Every meal was a delightful adventure of flavors, 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. Raindrops dancing on the lake’s surface created a serene ambiance, and we found ourselves lost in nature’s soothing rhythm.
In the evenings, we relaxed on the deck of King’s Boat, savoring 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 mesmerizing 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 also guided us to other places in Kashmir.
Going back in the history of houseboats
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 build anything in the valley. Then small houseboats were built to stay on Dal Lake, and in those days they moved on the water. Today, houseboats no longer move on the lake. They are anchored to one side of the lake. All basic amenities a traveler needs, such as electricity, toilets, and hot & cold water, are available.
Lotuses and the Floating Market of Dal Lake
On Dal Lake, you can shop 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. Many floating gardens and vegetation may astonish you. This is the primary source of income for farmers and lake dwellers. This scene also portrays the lives of local Kashmiris, offering insight into the Kashmiri way of life. Another beautiful sight is the countless blooming lotuses and lilies that greet you on either side of the shikara on an early morning trip to the lake.
Another memorable experience was shopping on the shikara. These ornate wooden boats adorned with vibrant handicrafts and souvenirs added a touch of colorful elegance to the lake. We couldn’t resist exploring the floating markets and purchasing unique treasures to cherish as mementos 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. Many ski resorts offer training courses for 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. Cable car rides are perfect for families, romantic couples, and adventure seekers. The scenic views of mountains and valleys during the ride are unforgettable and unmatched. Gulmarg town is the starting point, and the top of Apharwat Peak is the endpoint. Kongdoor is the midpoint. Kongdoor Mountain offers many easy runs through the trees and on 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 love this adventure, 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. Also known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” it is 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 all know 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. 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. Last but not least, I feel Kashmir, and in particular Srinagar, offers a lot 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 joined the adventure, and every 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 a truly joyful trip filled with cherished memories for all of us!
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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.