Overview
Kashmir is a beautiful place with snow-covered mountains, green valleys, and peaceful lakes. This 5 Days Kashmir Houseboat Tour takes you to Srinagar, Mughal Gardens, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. You will stay in a traditional houseboat on Dal Lake, enjoy shikara rides, see gardens, and visit hill stations. The tour gives you time to relax, enjoy nature, and explore local life. Whether you travel with family or friends, this trip gives you unforgettable memories. The tour also includes local sightseeing, a comfortable stay, and smooth transport. This short trip shows you the beauty and charm of Kashmir in just 5 days.
Trip Highlights
- Stay in a traditional Kashmir houseboat
- Enjoy a shikara ride on Dal Lake
- Visit Mughal Gardens - Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh
- See snow-covered hills in Gulmarg
- Explore Pahalgam, the Valley of Shepherds
- Experience local culture and Kashmiri food
- Visit handicraft shops and local markets
- Comfortable private transport with a local driver
Itinerary
You arrive in Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir. A driver meets you at the airport and takes you to your houseboat on Dal Lake. The houseboat is peaceful and has wooden designs that give you a warm welcome. After some rest, enjoy a shikara ride on Dal Lake. Watch the sunset, floating gardens, and see locals selling flowers and snacks on boats.
In the evening, enjoy a tasty Kashmiri dinner on the houseboat. Spend the night listening to the soft sounds of the lake. This is a perfect way to start your Kashmir journey.
After breakfast, get ready to explore Srinagar. First, visit the famous Mughal Gardens - Nishat Bagh (Garden of Joy) and Shalimar Bagh (Garden of Love). These gardens were made by Mughal kings and are full of flowers, fountains, and big green lawns.
Next, visit Hazratbal Shrine, located near the lake, and Jamia Masjid in the old city. Walk through the old streets and explore the local markets. You can buy warm shawls, handmade carpets, and local dry fruits. In the evening, return to your houseboat and relax.
After breakfast, drive to Gulmarg. It is about 50 km from Srinagar and takes around 2 hours. Gulmarg is known for its green meadows and snowy hills. In winter, it becomes a skiing spot. You can try the Gondola ride, one of the world’s highest cable cars. It gives you great views of the mountains.
You can also try horse riding or play in the snow. Walk around and take photos of pine trees and open fields. In the evening, return to Srinagar and relax on your houseboat.
Today, after early breakfast, go for a full-day trip to Pahalgam, about 90 km away. It takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Pahalgam is a quiet valley with rivers, forests, and small homes. You will stop on the way to see Saffron fields and Awantipura Ruins.
In Pahalgam, visit places like Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and Chandanwari. You can take a local cab or pony ride to explore nearby valleys. Enjoy walking along the river and clicking photos of beautiful landscapes. In the evening, drive back to Srinagar and relax.
After breakfast, check out of your houseboat. The driver will drop you at Srinagar Airport on time for your flight. You leave with happy memories of the houseboat, shikara ride, gardens, and hill stations.
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- 4 nights stay in a deluxe houseboat on Dal Lake
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Shikara ride on Dal Lake (1 hour)
- All sightseeing tours in private cab
- Day trips to Gulmarg and Pahalgam
- Experienced driver with local knowledge
- Parking fees and fuel charges
- All taxes included
Excludes
- Airfare or train tickets
- Lunch and snacks
- Entry fees at parks, gardens, and monuments
- Pony rides or local taxis in Pahalgam/Gulmarg
- Gondola ride tickets in Gulmarg
- Personal expenses like shopping, tips, etc.
- Travel insurance
Travel Tips
- Pack warm clothes. The weather can change fast, even in summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk a lot in gardens and markets.
- Carry ID proof. You may need it at checkpoints.
- Keep cash. Small shops may not accept cards.
- Avoid plastic. Help keep Kashmir clean.
- Book gondola rides early. Tickets sell out fast in peak season.
- Carry medicines. Especially for cold and motion sickness.
- Start day trips early. Traffic can delay your return.
- Respect local customs. Dress modestly in religious places. Stay hydrated. The weather may feel dry even in cold weather.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A Kashmir houseboat tour offers a stay on a wooden boat floating on the lakes of Srinagar, like Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake. It’s a peaceful and unique way to enjoy the beauty of Kashmir.
Yes, houseboats are safe and well-maintained. They are anchored and do not move around. Most have modern facilities like electricity, clean bathrooms, and comfortable rooms.
Houseboats usually have bedrooms, attached bathrooms, a living area, a dining room, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. You also get staff to help with food, tea, and cleaning.
The best time is from April to October when the weather is pleasant. In winter (December to February), it gets very cold, and lakes may freeze.
Once you reach Srinagar, you can take a short shikara (boat) ride to reach your houseboat. The boatman will help with luggage and transfer.
Most houseboat tour packages include breakfast and dinner. You can also request lunch or special meals by informing the staff in advance.
Yes, houseboats are perfect for honeymooners. Many offer romantic setups, candlelight dinners, and flower decorations for couples.
Carry warm clothes (especially in winter), personal medicines, ID proof, sunscreen, and a camera. Comfortable shoes and a power bank are also useful.
Some luxury houseboats offer Wi-Fi, but the internet may be slow. It’s a good time to disconnect and enjoy nature.
Yes, houseboats are well-connected to the city. You can easily visit Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple, markets, and nearby places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, or Sonmarg.