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Sukoon Houseboat, Srinagar, Kashmir, India
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Sukoon

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It was the Maharaja of Kashmir who first allowed the nineteenth-century British visitors to live in houseboats. Sukoon brings this traditional concept of a residential houseboat into the modern era while losing none of the charms of history.

Sukoon (meaning ‘tranquillity’ or ‘relaxation’) was originally built in 1979. Each of the five spacious rooms has a large window with lake views and a spacious ensuite with both a separate shower and bathtub. Where possible, original furnishings have been kept and restored including the glass chandeliers and the cedar wood panelling with its intricate carving.

Why we like Sukoon

Staying in a houseboat is a must and the Sukoon houseboat offers a level of luxury as yet unseen on Dal Lake. With far-reaching views to the imposing Himalaya from the stunning roof terrace, it is a wonderful option for those looking for a relaxing three or four days downtime during their holiday in India. Also ideal for a small group of friends to take over for a party on the lake. The sundeck really does offer the most magnificent vantage point and we would argue that there is no better setting from which to start your day as breakfast is served here.

Facilities

In the front of the boat is a bright and airy sitting room and a cosy dining area, with the front veranda and the unique roof terrace being perfect spots to relax and take in the beautiful scenery. The bedrooms are located at the rear of the boat.

The team is headed up by Bashir, the boat manager and his team of four.

Evening sunsets are best experienced from the rooftop terrace with a sundowner in hand. Dining onboard is a real treat. All meals are served deliciously fresh. Whilst onboard, try the Kashmiri tea and bread with apple and cinnamon jam.

Activities

  • Take a shikara ride to the floating vegetable market
  • Read the letter on show from the office of Neil Armstrong dated 1972
  • Take the private motorboat between Dal Lake and Srinagar waterfront

In keeping with the owners’ strong focus on environmental issues, Sukoon is fitted with a Bio tank, so no waste is discharged in the lake – the only Bio tank on the lake. They have a “no plastic” policy, so do not serve water from plastic bottles but from gleaming copper jugs. The boat has a highly efficient reverse osmosis system for water purification. Only re-cycled wood has been used in the renovation of the boat. Their motorboat is run on solar power.

Nearby experiences

  • People and Community
  • Cultural Holidays
  • Landscape

Ideally suited for

  • Romantic/Honeymoon

Price guide

£££££

Location

By air to Srinagar, followed by a half-hour drive, followed by a 10-minute Shikhara ride across Dal Lake. It has its own Shikhara and motorboat which is at guests’ disposal for lake crossings.

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Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.

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