Stray off the Beaten Tracks in the North

The wonderful northern regions of India are a treasure trove of beauties and hidden secrets. From the warm and lovingly prepared food to the encompassing hospitality, a vacation here is bound to be a memorable one. However, forget the general hotels you reside in. With the variety of options available in this terrain such as budget houseboats in Srinagar, here are some unique accommodation options for you to consider the next time you visit-

Find a Home Stay in Ladakh

Where the heaven themselves descended on the earth, Ladakh is the perfect escape for vacationers and admirers of natural beauty alike. The views that Ladakh has to offer can transport a visitor to another world itself. Adventures such as trekking and natural trails too can be found for a dime a dozen. However, if you truly wish to experience the local culture and embrace the life here, a popular mode of residence is a Home stay. As you share a room with a local family and experience their daily lives, you can connect not only to that family but also the whole of humanity on a different level. As isolated as these villages and huts often are, they offer modern amenities and a suitable environment for international travellers and backpackers.

Unwind in a Houseboat or Shikara

Hotels equipped with some of the best amenities such as air conditioned rooms and wireless internet are a sight for sore eyes. However, in Kashmir, you can find accommodation on luxury houseboats that have all this and more. From carpeted floors to intricate wooden panels, your room on the boat will leave you feeling like royalty. Srinagar luxury houseboats offer the tourists a unique experience. Calm and unmoving waters, disturbed only by a passing boat selling blooming flowers, is the perfect view to wake up to in the cold morning here.

The Luxurious Side

With an array of established luxury and boutique hotels here, splurge on a stay in one of these hotels as well. From a view of the valley or mountain ranges to large estate gardens that can make even a king go green with envy, this place has it all. Whether or not you are on your honeymoon, with such a plan you are sure to make your lady swoon.

Change up the general plan by staying in some unique accommodations to make your trip as wonderful as the area itself!

A Woman’s Guide to a Houseboat Escapade

As a woman, no matter how exciting a holiday may seem, there is a great deal of planning and packing involved. However, it is one experience every person should have on their bucket lists. There is a different sense of satisfaction waking up to the sound of serenity while you are surrounded by blooming flowers and loved ones. The houseboats in Kashmir are fairly luxurious and are nothing compared to a general one you see. Complete with an ornate dining table and bed rooms that can shame a hotel.

It is the simplicity of the space balanced with the underlying grandeur that will leave you impressed. Since these boats are stationery, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. Do not miss an opportunity to enjoy a moonlit walk on the deck out front or wake up to boats selling freshly cut flowers.

If you are staying in one of the luxury houseboats in Kashmir you have nothing to worry about as most emergency items will be easily available. However, it never hurts to be safe. Here is a list of all the things you should have along with you-

·        The Edibles

If you are travelling with a fussy child or spouse who is very particular about the food he eats, try and have some ready to eat food packets or snacks in hand. Although the food in Kashmir is delicious and can be found easily, some midnight cravings and such get difficult to satisfy. Finding vegetarian food in Kashmir too can be a challenge if you do not know where to look. Have a basic kit such as sugars and starches along with milk powder and snack packs in hand when travelling too.

·         The Clothing

Considering that you will be living in water, the climate will be extremely cold. Sturdy boots or thick shoes and a wind proof jacket are a must for all. Have tonnes of warm clothes packed as they do not dry easily.

·         The Medicine Cabinet

Carry all the basic medicines along with a first aid kit when here. Be sure to also have some mosquito repellent, lip moisturizer and conditioning lotion along with you too. The dry cold does not take to everyone’s skin.