From monuments that are a symbol of love and palaces that still evoke the grandeur of their regal past, to spectacular sunsets, verdant plantations, charming toy trains and canal cruises—India is a melange of romantic experiences that you really shouldn’t miss out on. Venture out to the stunning Himalayan peaks of Shimla, try out thrilling adventure sports in the Andamans, slow down on a romantic cruise ride in Kerala’s backwaters or stay in a houseboat on the glistening waters of Dal Lake here is your guide to discovering India’s most romantic destinations that guarantee an unforgettable time with your significant other on Valentine’s Day, and make for a memorable romantic vacation as well.
Shikara Ride
Shikara boat rides offer breathtaking the water bodies of the Kashmir. The joy of smoothly gliding over the water with the crisp sound of the paddle indeed is a feeling to be imbibed. Dal & Nagin lakes offer joyous shikara boat rides in Srinagar city. While on a shikara boat, the view of Zabarwan hills is just thrilling and with rhythmic tossing of water waves with the boat making the experience of the boat ride a pure fascination. The flower and boutique vendors on the shikara boats make the voyage more charming. Sightseeing of Dal and Nagin lakes on a shikara ride makes the trip adventurous particularly the inside Dal lake boat rides. The joy is unlimited and experience unforgetable. There are several shikara boat ghats alongside the Dal lake banks of Boulevard road. There are main 3 ghats of Shikaraboat, besides other small ones, which include Dalgate, Nehru Park, Nagin Lake, Hazratbal, Gagribal.
Dal Lake
Dal Lake is famous not only for its beauty, but for its vibrance, because it sustains within its periphery, a life that is unique anywhere in the world. The houseboat and shikara communities have lived for centuries on the Dal, and so complete is their infrastructure on the lake, that they never have to step on land! Doctors, tailors, and bakers – you’ll see them all in tiny wooden shops on the lake, near picturesque vegetable gardens and acres of lotus gardens.
Makhdoom Sahib Shrine
Makhdoom Sahib Shrine has historic importance and situated on the southern side of the Hari Parbat hill which is visited by people of all faiths. It is the shrine of Sheikh Hamza Makhdum. Also known as Makhdoom Sahib, Mehboob-ul-Alam and Sultan-Ul-Arifeen. Shrine is towards the southern side of Koh e Maran Hill. It is one of the most sacred shrines in Kashmir. This double storied, many-pillared structure displays a remarkable architectural style. This shrine is visited not only by Muslims but by people of all faiths, throughout the year. Makhdoom Sahib, also called Hazrat Sultan, was a Sufi saint.
Houseboats
Houseboat stay is sure to make you feel pampered and facilitated with all the amenities for a luxury holiday. No trip to Srinagar is complete without staying on one of the several luxurious houseboats. Anchored along one of the largest lakes in India, the Dal Lake, these houseboats are complete with vibrantly furnished bedrooms, a drawing room, kitchen & bathroom. Charges: Rs 4,500 for a deluxe category per night to Rs 5,500 for a super deluxe category including breakfast & dinner.