Kashmir is not a place to travel, it is an experience to cherish. The stunning mountains, gushing rivers, green meadows are complemented by the warmth of the people, the hospitality and the amazing food.
Our place of stay often determines much of our experience of travel, and this handpicked collection of homestays is sure to elevate the experience of visiting this stunning, almost surreal valley, up a few notches:
Waking up to a splendid view of the Dal lake, with the entire Srinagar town in the backdrop…that's the view from this cozy offbeat homestay. The scent of the apple orchards, the chirping of birds, the stunning views of the Himalayas will definitely make you fall in love with the place. The owners who live on the premises, personally take care of the hospitality and cook delicious food for their guests with love and warmth, which will keep you craving for more. The rooms are well furnished, with 1 room on ground floor and the others on the first floor. It is on the outskirts of Srinagar, and close to Dachigam National Park, so if you want to tryout something away from the mainstream in Kashmir, this is the perfect place for you.
Location: Outskirts of Srinagar, 5km from Dachigam National Park
Price: Starting from Rs. 6500 per day
Located in Rajbagh, in the heart of the picturesque city of Srinagar, Dove cottage promises a tranquil stay with all modern amenities. The rooms are plush with traditional Khatambund wooden ceilings and local furnishings. They have an in-house kitchen which can whip you up a delightful Kashmiri feast. Sip on Kashmiri Kahwa while lounging around their garden dotted with fruit trees and flowers, and you'd never want to leave! However, if you are keen to explore, it is a perfect base for travellers exploring Srinagar City as well as going on day trips to various hill resorts in the countryside.
Location: 15 minute drive away from the Srinagar Airport, 5 minutes by car from the Dal Lake. The central shopping areas of the city are just 5 to 7 minutes away.
Price: Starting from Rs. 2850 per day
If you're looking for an authentic local experience while staying in Kashmir, this 2-storey cozy homestay near Nigeen Lake might be the answer. Run by a Kashmiri couple, it is situated on the edge of the city in a quaint area, surrounded by flowers, bushes and an organic kitchen garden. Yes, you'll definitely get to sample the delicious produce from the garden! The rooms are done up in traditional style with its covered balcony (dub) Khatam band (wooden ceiling). They have four rooms open for guests, each with a different view, on the second floor.
Location: 5 mins from Nigeen Lake
Price: Starting from Rs. 4500 per day
Situated at a stunning location on the banks of the Indus river, Farah's homestay offers a traditional Kashmiri experience and food with a French twist. The rooms are furnished in traditional style, and the owners Rashid and Odile exude warmth and hospitality to make their guests feel at home. The homestay is surrounded by gardens, they have their own farm and dogs. If you want to grab a book, and laze around soaking in the ethereal beauty of the hills, they have a small library as well.
Location: Bardparan, Gagangir, about 12 kilometres before Sonmarg. 3 hours drive from Srinagar airport.
Price: Starting from Rs. 4500 per day
A cottage in the woods surrounded by trees, with sound of gushing water, chirping of birds, and stunning views of the mountains. If that's how you envision your holiday, then this beautiful cottage is the place for you. The main market of Pahalgam is a short walk away. Breakfast is served at the cottage and they can organize bonfire as well. Chandanwari, the starting point of Amarnath Yatra is located within walking distance from the property.
Location: Pahalgam, 2.5 hours' from Srinagar Airport
Price: Starting from Rs. 2500 per day
6. Tulip Cottage, Pahalgam
This cottage is situated at a stunning location with the Lidder river flowing beside it, and the jaw dropping views of the mountains. Sip on hot tea and pakoras to enjoy your commune with nature. They have 4 deluxe and 1 family room equipped with all the basic amenities. The staff makes every effort to make you feel at home.
Location: Pahalgam, 2.5 hours' drive from Srinagar airport
Price: Starting from Rs. 6000per day
Wake up to the chirping of birds, and an enchanting view of fruit orchards at this beautiful one room studio apartment. It is located within the residential compound of the hosts Fozia, an artist, and her husband Siddiq who's a historian, and they are just a call away for any help or a chat. Just a short walk away from the iconic Dal lake, it is named after a Kenyan Lake, and offers tranquil nature walks, birding, sightseeing around Dal Lake, Hazratbal and Naseem Bagh. It offers a cozy space for a solo traveler or couple and has an en-suite bathroom and well stocked kitchen in case you'd like to whip up a meal. A traditional Kashmiri bakery is just round the corner for sampling local breads.
Location: Dal Lake- 1.3 km, Naseem Bagh- 1 km
Price: Starting from Rs. 3950 per day
This Victorian style 4 bedroom mansion is located away from the hustle bustle of the main town on the foothills of the Zabarvan range. They have beautiful Lawns, a stylish living room with HD TV, dining Room, safe car parking and modular kitchen with all essential gadgets(available on request). It is located close to attractions like Nishat Garden and Dal lake. Transport can be arranged on prior request.
Location: Srinagar, 2 km from Nishat Garden and Dal Lake
Price: Starting from Rs. 2000 per night
Nestled between orchards in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountains, this beautiful mountain home overlooks the Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens. This is the home of a Kashmiri doctor, who stays on site when in Srinagar. The entire interior is done up in traditional Kashmiri style with all modern amenities. Enjoy evening conversations at the central fireplace, soak in the majestic views at dawn and dusk, or explore the city of Srinagar, with Dal Lake being just a 10 minute drive away.
Location: Srinagar, 10 mins drive from Dal Lake and Mughal Gardens
Price: Starting from Rs. 12500 per day
This European style villa overlooks the vast private orchard of the estate leading to the famous Dal Lake and offers a glorious 360-degree view of the mountains. This 19th Century abode was the former private residence of the Maharaja of Kashmir, has now been converted into a heritage homestay with 7 luxurious guest rooms. The interiors of Karan Mahal are adorned with many heritage elements including handwoven vintage Kashmiri carpets, handcrafted wooden ceilings, crystal chandeliers, art deco furniture and exquisite artefacts. They also serve home cooked breakfast and dinner with meals cooked in traditional Kashmiri style.
Location: Srinagar, Near Dal Lake
Price: Starting at Rs. 32000 per night
So, for your next holiday in Kashmir, choose one of these unique abodes, and enjoy an unparalleled holiday experience with Kashmir's stunning natural beauty and hospitality.