Imagine drifting on Dal Lake, surrounded by lotus blooms and the Himalayan silhouette, aboard a Royal Group houseboat. Since their inception in 1887, these floating marvels have offered a unique stay, blending Kashmiri craftsmanship with colonial charm. Each houseboat, like the “Royal King Ori,” features carved wooden interiors, chandeliers, and shared lounges where guests bond over Kashmiri kahwa. Reviews on MakeMyTrip highlight the delicious home-cooked meals, though some note limited menu variety. A lesser-known tidbit: the Royal Group’s boats, moored in the quieter Golden Dal Lake, were strategically placed to escape the crowded ghats, offering unobstructed views—a rarity in the 19th century when houseboats numbered over 3,000. Guests enjoy complimentary shikara rides, but summer heat and outdated bathrooms, as mentioned in Goibibo reviews, remind us of the wooden structures’ age. The Royal Group’s commitment to preserving Kashmiri decor, despite environmental bans on new construction, underscores their dedication to heritage. For a night that feels like stepping into a Mughal painting, the Royal Group delivers an unforgettable escape.
