How to Choose Honeymoon Hotels and Houseboats in Kashmir
Pick the right houseboat, hotel and cottage for your Kashmir honeymoon: categories, views, heating, questions to ask and extras.
Kashmir has been one of India’s favourite honeymoon destinations for generations, and it is easy to see why. Still lakes, snow-capped peaks and quiet meadows make it feel made for two. Here is how to plan it well.
When to go
- April to June: mild weather, flowers and green valleys. The most popular honeymoon season.
- October to November: golden chinars, clear skies and fewer people. Our favourite for couples.
- December to February: snow and cosy fireside evenings. Pack warm and keep the plan flexible.
Where to stay
A houseboat night is a must. Choose Nigeen Lake for privacy or Dal Lake for the classic view. Book a premium houseboat with a private sundeck if you can.
In Gulmarg, pick a hotel with views of the slopes. In Pahalgam, choose a riverside cottage on the Lidder. Two nights in Pahalgam give you an unhurried evening by the water.
Experiences for couples
- A private sunset shikara ride, with Kahwa served on board
- An early-morning visit to the floating market
- The Gulmarg Gondola to Apharwat, above the clouds
- A pony ride through the pine forest to Baisaran
- A quiet picnic in Betaab or Aru Valley
- Couple photos in traditional Kashmiri dress (pheran) at Nishat Bagh
A sample 5-night honeymoon plan
| Night | Stay | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Houseboat, Srinagar | Sunset shikara, candle-light dinner |
| 2 | Hotel, Srinagar | Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya Temple |
| 3 | Gulmarg | Gondola ride, snow or meadows |
| 4–5 | Riverside cottage, Pahalgam | Aru, Betaab, Baisaran |
Little touches that make a difference
- Ask for a flower-bed decoration and a cake on the first night.
- Choose a private cab rather than a shared tour.
- Keep one evening completely free. The best moments are often unplanned.
Our Kashmir honeymoon packages include the houseboat night, decoration, cake and a candle-light dinner, so you only need to pack.