Houseboat Nanga Parbat

I had the pleasure of staying on the Nonga Parbat houseboat on Lake Dal for four nights and three days. We were picked up from the mainland by our two wonderful servers, Manzoor and Archad in two separate shickaras. This is the mode of transportation on and across Lake Dal as the houseboats are stationery. Some highlights from staying on the Nonga Parbat include watching the sun go down from the rooftop terrace coloring the sky a brilliant orange. As dark comes on, the lights on surrounding boats come on and color reflections on the water. Seeing the moon rise and then lights ***** the edge of the mountain tops come on only adds to the magic of this experience. A cold can of Kingfisher beer didn't hurt either. I was up early to enjoy hot coffee or tea either on the front porch or up on the roof in the mornings. Watching the bird activity was a real treat. The kingfisher here, are a striking neon blue. They would hover above water like a helicopter before diving straight into water. My one regret of this part of the trip was not getting to spend a whole day just watching the lake activities from the boat. After a freshly prepared breakfast of eggs three ways, toast and fruits, my group was off sight seeing. My favorite side trip, while on the boat, was to Gulmarg, for hiking. We saw shepherds herding goats and sheep on foot and horseback. The surrounding mountains were beautiful. We returned to our houseboat for dinner in the ornately carved and decorated dining room. Food was always fresh and they catered to my request for, "not too spicy." The owner of this boat was our guide for almost two weeks of our trip. He has a big heart and always strives to improve the trips experience. He is a great story teller and wonderful at sharing the history not only of Nanga Parbat houseboat, but all the places we visited. From the moment you step off the shikara onto the house boat, you are able to explore the beauty of the carvings and furnishings of this historical home. It is filled with antiques as one would expect. I found it warm, cozy and inviting. If you are planning a trip to Lake Dal, I highly recommend this unique boat and its servers. You won't be disappointed.

The service staff were on the ball. It’s indeed a heritage houseboat, exquisitely furnished (there’s even a kidney table used by political personalities of the past). Chairs and decorations indicates it was once (and still is) grand. Boatman did an excellent job with the Shikara ride, especially to the backwaters. Situated at the corner, it was peaceful at night and the 2nd floor room gave view of stars. View was stunning and unobstructed. 4 stars as the electricity was intermittent. It got very cold in march, though the heated bedsheet gave some respite; the room heater AC wasn’t of much help. Food was decent and homely. Toilet was clean and shower had heater.