First time in Dalgate: what to know before you arrive

Where Dalgate is

Dalgate is at the south-western end of Dal Lake in Srinagar, where Boulevard Road begins. Ghats (boat landings), houseboats, hotels, markets and taxi stands are all close together, which makes it a convenient base.

Houseboats are moored along Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake and are reached by shikara from a ghat on the shore — ask your houseboat which ghat to come to.

Tourist help

The Directorate of Tourism Kashmir runs a helpline desk at the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), Srinagar to sort out tourists' complaints quickly: 88999 41010, 88999 31010, helpline.kashmirtourism@gmail.com.^[1]

The government-run Hotel Kashmir Residency is at the TRC.^[3] In an emergency, call 112, or 108 for an ambulance.

Choosing where to stay

Houseboats are sold in categories — Deluxe and A to D are the labels you'll usually see. Before you book, ask:

• Which category the houseboat is registered in with the Tourism Department, and to see the registration
• Which meals are included
• Whether the shikara transfer from the ghat is included
• Heating and hot water, if you're coming in winter

Prefer road access and late arrivals? A hotel on Boulevard Road or around Dalgate may suit you better. Compare houseboats · compare hotels.

Phones and SIM cards

Prepaid SIM cards from other states generally don't work in Jammu & Kashmir, while postpaid connections do.^[2] Check with your operator before you travel, or carry a postpaid number.

Cash and ATMs

Keep some cash for shikaras, small shops and tips. There are J&K Bank branches and ATMs in and around Dalgate — see ATM / Banks for addresses and hours.

Getting around

For the lake, take a shikara. For the airport, sightseeing and day trips, use a taxi operator; for your own wheels, bike rentals are near Dalgate. Always agree the price before you set off.