Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is a canvas of shimmering lakes, Mughal gardens and snowy peaks. The places to stay in Srinagar are as beautiful as the surroundings. The beauty is unparalleled, the food hearty and indulgent and the views unimaginable. If you’re planning a Srinagar holiday soon, remember: where you stay in Srinagar shapes how you experience its magic.
Sometimes, the best place to stay in Srinagar is where you feel most at home. For many, this takes the form of private villas in Srinagar. A private villa is where you can find the best of both worlds—quality comfort and a quiet corner, all to yourself. Unlike hotels, every corner is yours—from spacious living rooms to gardens that frame mountain views. It’s in these places to stay in Srinagar that the best memories are made.
Here are the most charming places to stay in Srinagar, whether you’re travelling with friends or family.
The best place to stay in Srinagar is on the water itself. Lohono Stays’ houseboat on Nigeen Lake offers a blend of Kashmiri interiors, old-world charm and complete serenity. Wake up to the sound of paddling shikaras, sip kahwa on your deck and watch the lake mirror the mountains around you. It’s a quintessential Srinagar experience.
Houseboats in Kashmir date back to the British Raj, when foreigners were not allowed to own land but wanted to experience Kashmiri hospitality. Over time, they evolved into floating palaces, each one adorned with walnut wood carvings, papier-mâché ceilings, Kashmiri carpets and chandeliers. Today, staying in a houseboat in Srinagar is like stepping into history while enjoying modern comforts.
Unlike the bustling Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is quieter, more serene, and perfect for travellers who want peace without being too far from the town. Lohono Stays’ houseboats are anchored here, offering complete tranquillity while still giving you easy access to the best things to do in Srinagar.
This idyllic 2-bedroom houseboat in Srinagar is anchored on the banks of Nigeen Lake Srinagar. It can house as many as five guests and is kitted with all the comforts you may need on your stay in Srinagar. This houseboat in Srinagar features wood-panelled interiors, grand ceilings and plush carpets that capture the spirit of a traditional Kashmiri houseboat. Unwind in well-appointed bedrooms, gather in the dining room for leisurely meals or step onto the deck for blissful views or to shop from passing shikaras. This houseboat is one of the best places to stay in Srinagar.
If we had to imagine what daily life on a houseboat would look like, here’s a word picture. Mornings begin with kahwa served on your deck as you watch the lake mirror the Himalayas. Afternoons are for shopping from shikaras selling everything from saffron to pretty souvenirs. Evenings often end with traditional Wazwan feasts or simply listening to the paddling of oars or the sound of the water. It’s a quintessential Srinagar stay experience and one that feels unlike anywhere else in the world.
Located close to Dal Lake, Noor is a vision to behold. This 9-bedroom villa is absolutely stunning, courtesy its Kashmiri Khatamband ceilings, wooden flooring, contemporary furnishings and windows that offer some of the best views in Srinagar. This villa in Srinagar features a glass house filled with books to read, a Hammam Room with heated floors for chilly days, a roll-top bath in the bedroom and well-tended gardens. It’s the best place to stay in Srinagar if you’re travelling with a large group. This is one of the best houseboats to stay in Srinagar.
The best place to stay in Srinagar for grandeur and indulgence is a villa that feels like its own private estate. With sweeping views, expansive spaces and interiors that merge Kashmiri artistry with modern comforts, it’s a stay designed for those who like their getaways grand and memorable. Lohono Stays’ Noor offers exactly that.
Sometimes, the best place to stay in Srinagar is one that feels intimate and tucked away. A charming cottage brings with it an easy pace, homely vibes and the kind of warmth that makes you slow down and truly enjoy the setting. Case in point? The Red Cottage at Zaznar by Lohono Stays.
Step into your own fairytale at this postcard-perfect villa in Srinagar. Painted a cheery red on the outside—the colour of Kashmiri apples—this villa features one well-furnished bedroom, soft Kashmiri carpets underfoot and a sprawling lawn. You can cosy up indoors with a cup of kahwa or head out to the lawns to warm your hands over a crackling bonfire. The villa also offers easy access to Srinagar’s Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake as well as local markets. It’s most definitely a romantic place to stay in Srinagar. For honeymooners or couples, this is one of the most romantic villas in Srinagar—a private hideaway that feels personal and magical.
With so many varied options, how do you decide the best place to stay in Srinagar? Here’s a quick guide:-
No matter which stay you choose, Lohono Stays ensures every property feels private, personal and deeply tied to the beauty of Kashmir.
Srinagar is beautiful year-round, but your choice of stay can feel different depending on the season:
FAQs ABOUT THE BEST STAYS IN SRINAGAR
Q.1) What is the best area to stay in Srinagar?
For tranquillity, Nigeen Lake is ideal. For activity and sightseeing, Dal Lake and nearby areas work best. Villas near Dal Lake give you easy access to both.
Q.2) Are houseboats in Srinagar safe for families?
Yes. Houseboats like Harmukh are equipped with modern facilities and staff to ensure a safe, comfortable stay for families.
Q.3) Which is better: Dal Lake or Nigeen Lake for a houseboat stay?
Dal Lake is more popular and bustling, while Nigeen Lake is quieter and less crowded. Nigeen offers a more serene, private experience.
Q.4) Do Srinagar villas come with staff and meals?
Yes. Lohono villas like Noor and Red Cottage include housekeeping staff and offer curated meals so you can enjoy the taste of authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
Q.5) How many people can stay at Noor villa?
Noor has nine bedrooms and can host large groups comfortably, making it ideal for family reunions or special destination celebrations.
Q.6) What is the cost of staying in a houseboat in Srinagar?
Costs vary by size and amenities, but houseboats like Harmukh offer luxury stays at prices that are often more affordable than hotels with similar views.
Q.7) Is Srinagar a good honeymoon destination?
Absolutely. With romantic shikara rides, cosy cottages like Red Cottage and snowy winters, Srinagar is one of India’s best honeymoon destinations.
Q.8) Are Lohono’s Srinagar stays suitable for long stays or workations?
Yes. Many villas and houseboats are equipped with Wi-Fi, work-friendly corners and private spaces that make them ideal for long stays. Guests can enjoy both work and leisure with views of the Himalayas as their backdrop.
Whether you choose the timeless charm of a houseboat in Srinagar or the luxury of a large villa, Srinagar has a way of making every moment seem unforgettable. With Lohono Stays’ curated homes in Srinagar, you get more than just accommodation. You step into a world of personalised service, authentic Kashmiri design and comfort that feels absolutely exclusive. Unlike hotels, these villas, cottages and houseboats are designed to give you space, warmth and a genuine connection to your surroundings. With us, you can discover homes that frame the lake, the mountains and the city’s old-world charm in ways that feel both private and personal. So, prepare to discover the best places to stay in Srinagar with Lohono Stays.
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