Romantic Kashmir: A Honeymoon Planner's Guide

Introduction

With its snow-draped alpine trees, quiet lakes, and cozy candlelit cabins, Kashmir is the ultimate honeymoon destination in India. If you are planning your first trip together as a couple, here are the most romantic experiences and boutique settings in the valley.

1. The Dal Lake Houseboat Experience

Staying on a wooden houseboat is like traveling back in time. To make it romantic:

• Private Candlelight Dinner: Request a local dinner served on the deck of your houseboat overlooking the calm lake reflections.
• Floating Shikara Ride: Hire a wooden shikara decorated with flowers. Take a slow evening ride through the floating gardens and watch the sunset together.

2. Hand-in-Hand Walks in Pahalgam

Pahalgam (the Valley of Shepherds) offers scenic natural pathways:

Lidder River Picnic: Find a quiet spot along the banks of the turquoise Lidder River, surrounded by pine forests. The sound of rushing river water and mountain views creates a peaceful atmosphere.

Baisaran Valley Trek: Rent horses or trek up together to the Baisaran meadow. Known as Mini Switzerland, the vast grass glade is ringed by tall pines and snow peaks.

3. Cozying Up in Snowy Gulmarg

If visiting in winter, Gulmarg is incredibly cozy. Stay at a heated boutique resort with mountain views. Spend the day playing in the snow, taking the Gondola cable car ride together to Phase 2 to view the Himalayas, and warming up with a cup of hot Kashmiri Kehwa (saffron-infused green tea) by the fireplace.