In Love With Kashmir: 5 Gorgeous Retreats You’ll Want to Return To Again And Again

Framed by misty mountains and tranquil waters, Kashmir is a region of extraordinary natural and cultural richness. From the serene expanse of Dal Lake, with its floating markets and carved wooden houseboats, to the intricate artistry of pashmina weaving, hand-knotted carpets, and delicate papier-mâché, every detail tells a story of craftsmanship and heritage. Kashmir is best experienced along a trail from Srinagar and winds through Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Gulmarg — a journey that captures the region’s many moods. Imagine horseback rides through alpine meadows that melt into pine forests and misty mountains, unhurried conversations over kahwa with local guides who recount sightings of snow leopards and Himalayan bears in winter, and encounters with shepherds and hikers navigating the migratory routes of sheep through the Himalayan foothills.

Seasoned travellers know that the soul of Kashmir’s culinary tradition — the celebrated Wazwan — is best savoured in local homes, where generations-old recipes come to life. While the outdoors challenge you to pause and breathe in nature’s grandeur, Kashmir’s luxury retreats offer a deeper immersion into ‘Kashmiriyat’ — the warmth, grace, and hospitality that define the spirit of the land. At DP, like many others, we are deeply shocked and saddened by the recent incident in Pahalgam and extend our thoughts to those affected. Even in times of sorrow, Kashmir continues to inspire with its enduring spirit and grace. In that spirit, we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of the finest luxury retreats that reflect the region’s soul — places of beauty, comfort, and quiet reflection for your next journey. 

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1. Karan Mahal Brings Back The Elegance Of Erstwhile Royalty With European Accents

Nestled on a gentle saddle at the base of Shankaracharya Hill along Gupkar Road, Srinagar, this elegant European-style villa gazes out over a sprawling private orchard that cascades toward the shimmering expanse of Dal Lake. Built in the 1920s, this heritage villa was once the residence of Karan Singh, former Governor of Kashmir and son of the last Maharaja of the Dogra Family in Jammu and Kashmir. Today, it serves as the elegant summer retreat of his son, Vikramaditya Singh Kashmir, and his wife, Chitrangada Raje. Spearheaded by Chitrangada Raje, the decade-long restoration blended the colonial vision with heritage detailing, featuring furniture refurnished by Delhi-based restorer-designer Meher Bhalla and intricate Kashmiri craftsmanship brought to life by skilled local artisans. The villa features seven colonial-designed rooms and suites, each varying in size and layout. Some open onto private balconies, while others offer direct garden access. Each room and suite is graced with handcrafted wooden ceilings embellished in traditional Khatamband—a hallmark of Kashmiri artistry. The stately drawing room and regal dining space echo a bygone era, adorned with heritage treasures: handwoven vintage carpets, glittering crystal chandeliers, heirloom artefacts, and art deco furniture.

Meals here are a thoughtful reflection of the family’s regal heritage, blending the rich culinary traditions of Dogra, Kashmiri, and Nepalese cuisine with refined contemporary fare. Expect delicate chicken roulade, avocado and pomegranate salad made with garden-fresh greens, and perfectly grilled trout. All dishes are overseen by Chitrangada Raje herself—an accomplished cook with an eye for detail. The estate’s orchards brim with seasonal bounty—apples, apricots, cherries, pears, plums, and strawberries—making breakfast in the garden, with views of the Dal Lake, a serene and sumptuous start to the day. The seclusion of estate living holds universal appeal. As part of the daily excursions, guests are invited to join guided nature walks through the private forest and orchard each morning and evening. 

DP Loves: Just minutes from the iconic Royal Springs Golf Course, the hotel offers effortless access for a day on the greens, because a round of golf is always a good idea.

2.​​The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg, Is India’s Only Luxury Ski Haven

Since its remarkable debut in December 2012, The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Gulmarg—India’s first and only luxury ski resort—has continued to captivate discerning travellers for over a decade. Nestled at an altitude of 8,825 feet in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, the resort sprawls across seven acres of pristine pine-covered valley. Following a recent stylish transformation by Delhi-based Mr. Anil Badan, the principal architect of Studio B Architects, it has reemerged as a contemporary mountain retreat where discerning globetrotters are welcomed by refined luxury and effortless elegance. Dark wood and heavy furnishings have made way for sleek, modern pieces in lighter tones. The reimagined lobby exudes sophistication, with layered lighting beneath an ivory ceiling, complemented by leather-upholstered sofas, chic armchairs, and functional seating atop Persian rugs. At its centre, a round, glass-encased biofuel fireplace—clean-burning and carbon-neutral—infuses the space with warmth and a convivial glow.

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All eighty rooms, four ‘Luxury Cottages,’ and the ‘Presidential Cottage’ now showcase a sleek contemporary design, paired with panoramic views of the Affarwat peaks or verdant valleys. After a day on the slopes, unwind at The Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE or take a dip in the iconic, all-weather indoor pool with breathtaking mountain views. For dinner, ‘Brava,’ the new Italian Pizzeria & Grill, offers a creative blend of Kashmiri and Italian flavours and replicates an Apres-ski vibe. No stay at The Khyber is complete without skiing. The resort’s dedicated concierge for activities curates personalised experiences—from thrilling outdoor adventures to in-house offerings like film screenings at the mini cinema, the Igloo Kids’ Club, and snooker games.

DP Loves: Luxury Balcony Rooms offer private terraces with panoramic views of the Himalayas or the Gulmarg bowl—ideal for savouring morning tea at sunrise.

3. Experience Tranquil Luxury Afloat With Sukoon On Dal Lake

Moored on the glassy expanse of Kashmir’s Dal Lake and framed by the snow-kissed peaks of the Himalayas, Sukoon lives up to the tranquil elegance of its Sufi name, meaning peace. Designed by the in-house team of AB Chapri Retreats, each of its five suites is a veritable museum of Kashmiri craftsmanship—built from cedar wood planks, panelled and furnished with intricately carved or filigreed walnut, and upholstered in richly embroidered fabrics that celebrate the region’s artisanal heritage. Sukoon is not only a haven of tranquillity but also a pioneer in sustainable luxury. It is the first houseboat in Kashmir equipped with a bio-tank system, ensuring that no waste is discharged into the pristine waters of Dal Lake. Plastic is strictly prohibited onboard, and all drinking water is purified using cutting-edge reverse osmosis technology, eliminating the need for single-use plastic bottles and reducing environmental impact. 

Begin your day with a serene breakfast on ‘Fizaa,’ the sun deck, bathed in the soft light of dawn, or unwind here at sunset with a handcrafted cocktail before settling in for a romantic, candlelit dinner under the stars. For cooler evenings, the houseboat also features a cosy indoor dining area where you can savour a curated menu of Kashmiri delicacies, Indian favourites, and continental classics. Set at the heart of Dal Lake’s ever-changing canvas, ‘Fizaa’ offers unobstructed views of the lake’s shifting hues, each hour revealing a new shade of magic in this floating paradise. Experiences here are thoughtfully curated and deeply rooted in place. Drift through the labyrinthine canals of Dal Lake aboard a traditional shikara, gliding past floating markets, lotus gardens, and centuries-old homes where time stands still. For a deeper cultural immersion, step ashore to explore Srinagar’s old town—an evocative world of handcrafted artistry, heritage architecture, and timeless Kashmiri traditions.

DP Loves: Savouring high tea on the sun deck, under open skies with views of Dal Lake, is one of Sukoon’s most unforgettable indulgences.

4. Qayaam Gah In Srinagar Is A Serene Sanctuary Steeped in Sufi Spirit

Perched on a secluded ridge high above the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, with the dramatic Zabarwan Hills rising behind it, Qayaam Gah is a universe of its own. ​​Accessible only via a winding country road that meanders through forested paths and sleepy hamlets, this intimate sanctuary offers an extraordinary escape. Altaf Chapri, founder of ABChapri Retreats, designed the retreat using cedar wood, glass, and stone to create a seamless connection between indoors and the natural surroundings. With just four villas and three suites, privacy here is absolute. Each space harmoniously merges with the landscape, featuring wood-burning stoves, traditional Kashmiri carpets, and an atmosphere of meditative calm. Highlights of the property include an infinity pool, Qalb—a scenic deck where local troupes perform live music during high tea—and a canopied pavilion for intimate private dining, all framed by breathtaking 360-degree mountain views.

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Just above the infinity pool, ‘Ruh’ the restaurant sits amid terraced orchards, serving Kashmiri and global fare. Expect soulful sufi melodies throughout the day, with bespoke celebrations that can be tailored for guest experiences. At Qayaam Gah, every experience is bespoke — from indulging in an elaborate Kashmiri ‘wazwan ’ to floating serenely in a traditional shikara on Dal Lake. Discover the old city’s hidden stories on a guided walking tour or venture off-grid to Dachigam National Park in search of the elusive Hangul, the Kashmiri stag. Here, luxury is not only in the stay — it is in the stillness, the culture, and the soul-stirring beauty of the Valley. This serene sanctuary echoes Rumi’s timeless words: “When I am silent, I fall into that place where everything is music.

DP Loves: The grey stone–lined infinity pool offers a serene vantage point over snow-dusted peaks and the raw beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

5. Taj Dal View Promises Front-Row Seats To Kashmir’s Beauty 

 Crowned on a clifftop with sweeping views, Taj Dal View is spread across six serene acres and commands one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the valley.  Surrounded by the majestic Zabarwan Range, it overlooks the shimmering expanse of Dal Lake. Revamped extensively from the Taj Hospitality’s in-house design team, the property features 103 elegantly appointed, lake-facing rooms and suites, each offering a private garden sit-out or panoramic views from a private terrace. Every corner of this retreat is a celebration of Kashmir’s regal heritage — from intricately carved walnut wood panels that glow under ambient lighting, to opulent ‘Jamawar’ fabrics that dress the wall and ceiling whisper stories of timeless craftsmanship.

At Taj Dal View, every meal is a sensorial journey, thoughtfully curated by the resident master chefs. From the refined global fare and regional Kashmiri delicacies at ‘Vista,’ the all-day diner, to the exquisite Pan-Asian flavours of ‘Jade Dragon,’ every dining experience is elevated with flair. Unwind at the ‘Tulip Lounge’ with your favourite tea, paired with delicate international and local confections. Beyond its culinary offerings, the retreat beckons you to unwind — whether with a treatment at the world-class spa or a tranquil swim in the outdoor pool, set against panoramic views you won’t soon forget. Indulge in the ultimate ‘Shikara’ dining experience, take a heritage walk through the heart of Srinagar, or embark on an exclusive walking safari in Dachigam National Park to spot the rare Himalayan bear and endangered Hangul. Taj Dal View seamlessly blends the grandeur of nature with the essence of Kashmiri craftsmanship and cultural heritage—one we hope you’ll savour soon. 

DP Loves: Taj Dal View’s exquisite Wazwan experience on a private deck, set against the iconic Dal Lake and the breathtaking Zabarwan Mountains.