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HOUSEBOATS
The Floating Palaces
This unique Kashmiri tradition of gracious
waterside living originated with the first British residents of Kashmir. In order to prevent them
from assuming power, the Maharaja of Kashmir forbade the British to own land;
their solution was to build their residences on water, with the houseboats
evolving from modest floating homes to veritable floating palaces.
  These hand-built houseboats,
boasting all the amenities of 5-star hotels, are one of Srinagar's stellar
attractions. These enchanting residences range  from 60 to 150 ft. long, are 15 to 20 ft. wide and
each is unique. There are spacious four-bedroom boats and cozy two-bedrooms;
all feature attached bathrooms, electricity and modern plumbing. The cedar
interiors are intricately carved and display the consummate artistry of
Kashmiri craftsmen. The furnishings include embroidered native rugs and
fabrics, local objects d'art, and solidly comfortable Victorian and Edwardian
furniture. These luxurious boats also feature rooftop sundecks from which to
take in the Himalayan views and enjoy the brisk fresh air. A houseboat holiday
is also an unusual gourmet experience. Our chefs will prepare the finest
Kashmiri dishes, including barbecued lamb kabobs marinated in fragrant herbs),
Rista (juicy, delicately seasoned lamb meatballs), Tabaq maz, fresh saffron
rice and Goshtaba, dishes typically prepared only as part of the special Wazwan
celebrations. Our chef will also prepare Western style meals to order. Every
meal is a festive occasion with the finest local dishes served in classic
British style - on linen and lace, with silver and china. Sit back and enjoy
desert, firni(a special dessert pudding made of rice,raisins, nuts, saffron and
milk) and a pot of Kahwa (our local green tea).
SRINAGAR/KASHMIR:
The Gateway to Paradise
 The soft murmur of the river Jhelum gives us a glimpse of the
easy-paced lifestyle of Srinagar. Its waters have moved gently for 1400 years
through the center of the Kashmiri capital. Each morning the light
 splashing of the river vendors selling flowers, fruits, and
vegetables announce the beginning of daily business. Dal lake, in the early
sunshine, reflects the gaily decorated houseboats; smells of Kashmiri tea and
biscuits drift across the lake, and all the delights of a holiday in Srinagar
are fully awakened. The city's bazaars are opened and shopkeepers show their
handicrafts. The shikaras, (Kashmiri style gondolas) Glide smoothly through the
Jhelum, under nine picturesque bridges, each a rainbow of colorful people;
women in brightly embroided skirts, jeweled in silver and gold, others in
somber black or brown and heavily veiled, men in vivid caps and turbans. The
rippling waters of the lake reflect the
 magnificent terraced gardens
around it. Connected to a network of canals and the river Jhelum, the Dal is
the main thoroughfare for luxury boats. Further down is Nagin Lake, popular for
its water-skiing, swimming, diving and sailing. It is on these enchanting lakes
that our houseboats are moored. Here vendors glide up to your front doorstep
with floating stores of fruit, flowers, shawls, jewelry, carpets, etc.
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For
questions or booking call (800) 421-8975 US/Canada
 
Himalayan International Tours
205 Mineola Blvd, Suite 1B
Mineola, New York 11501 USA
Phone:516) 739-4660
Reservations (800) 421-8975 US/Canada, Mon-Fri 9.30A-5.30P Eastern Time Zone
Email: tours@himalayantours.com
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