Kolu Palace Group Of House Boats

About Us

Kolu palace Houseboats only this name is registered with (Department of Tourism), Jammu and Kashmir INDIA & House Boat Owners Association of KASHMIR. None of more kolu name is registered with these departments.

Houseboat Kolupalace
Abdul Salaam Kolu and his two sons, Mohd. Amin & Mohd. Ashraf currently own and operate five of the finest houseboats in Kashmir. Four generations of the family have preceded them in this activity. Their fine reputation has kept them in the forefront in welcoming guests from every corner of the world from several decades. They pride themselves in offering the kind of luxurious service which brings their guests back to Kashmir and to their houseboats time and time again. For many of these guests, it has become a home away from home the home they cannot forget. You too are warmly invited to visit and enjoy the personal attention and courtesy which the family extends to each and every one of its guests at Kolu Palace Group of Houseboats.
This unique Kashmiri tradition of gracious waterside living originated with the first British residents of Kashmir. In order to prevent them from assuming power, the Maharaja of Kashmir forbade the British to own land; their solution was to build their residences on water, with the houseboats evolving from modest floating homes to veritable floating palaces. These hand-built houseboats, boasting all the amenities of 5-star hotels, are one of Srinagar''s stellar attractions.
These enchanting residences range from 60 to 150 ft. long, are 15 to 20 ft. wide and each is unique. There are spacious four-bedroom boats and cozy two-bedrooms; all feature attached bathrooms, electricity and modern plumbing. The cedar interiors are intricately carved and display the consummate artistry of Kashmiri craftsmen.
The furnishings include embroidered native rugs and fabrics, local objects d'art, and solidly comfortable Victorian and Edwardian furniture. These luxurious boats also feature rooftop sundecks from which to take in the Himalayan views and enjoy the brisk fresh air.
A houseboat holiday is also an unusual gourmet experience. Our chefs will prepare the finest Kashmiri dishes, including barbecued lamb kabobs marinated in fragrant herbs), Rista (juicy, delicately seasoned lamb meatballs), Tabaq maz, fresh saffron rice and Goshtaba, dishes typically prepared only as part of the special Wazwan celebrations. Our chef will also prepare Western style meals to order. Every meal is a festive occasion with the finest local dishes served in classic British style - on linen and lace, with silver and china. Sit back and enjoy desert, firni(a special dessert pudding made of rice,raisins, nuts, saffron and milk) and a pot of Kahwa (our local green tea).