The houseboat culture of Kashmir has a mystical and legendary past, one that lured intrepid travelers, bohemians, celebrities and musicians in a time when adventure travel to the exotic and alluring cultures of the near and far east was a luxury few could afford.
And yet the lifestyle that became known as the Hippy Trail - vagabond adventures through India, Kashmir, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan hence drifted into the forgotten archives of dusty old LIFE magazines after the political changes of the 1970s - the Islamic Revolution in Iran, the Russian invasion of Afghanistan and tensions in Kashmir closed overland routes and made travel in the region far less desirable.
Kashmir still remains off the tourist trail today due to unrest in some areas and persistent oppression from Indian forces. Travelers who decide to not listen to the media and want to see for themselves, will find a beautiful place with wonderfully hospitable local folk and a whole lot of cultural experience.
I have spent quite some time in Kashmir and visited a range of the fabled houseboats. From this I have put together a list of houseboats which are not too shabby indeed and highly worthy of a stay. Of course there are many many more, but you will just have to take a shikara and find them for yourselves.
HB Mascot One
Location - Nagin Lake
Class - Luxury
Travel Style - Couples, families
Style - minimal, Chic, modern
Bedrooms - 5
The undisputed leader in luxury houseboats, Mascot One has literally been rebuilt from scratch from its humbler previous life. Five years in the making and a testimony to Kashmiri class and craftmanship, this boat has been hand carved painstakingly by the finest artisans in the valley. Each huge bedroom is themed with different carved headboards, the detail of which is breathtaking.
The rooftop deck has a honeymoon suite with a peaceful relax/ dinning area to sit and watch the stunning mountain vista over the lake.
Services include 24 hour room service, central heating, internet & cable TV and a spa in each room.
http://www.mascothouseboats.com
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