"DALGATE"
"DALGATE"The soft murmur of the river Jhelum gives us a glimpse of the easy-paced lifestyle of Srinagar. Its waters have moved gently for 1400 years through the center of the Kashmiri capital. Each morning the light splashing of the river vendors selling flowers, fruits, and vegetables announce the beginning of daily business. Dal lake, in the early sunshine, reflects the gaily decorated houseboats; smells of Kashmiri tea and biscuits drift across the lake, and all the delights of a holiday in Srinagar are fully awakened. The city's bazaars are opened and shopkeepers show their handicrafts. The shikaras, (Kashmiri style gondolas) Glide smoothly through the Jhelum, under nine picturesque bridges, each a rainbow of colorful people; women in brightly embroided skirts, jeweled in silver and gold, others in somber black or brown and heavily veiled, men in vivid caps and turbans.
The rippling waters of the lake reflect the magnificent terraced gardens around it. Connected to a network of canals and the river Jhelum, the Dal is the main thoroughfare for luxury boats. Further down is Nagin Lake, popular for its water-skiing, swimming, diving and sailing. It is on these enchanting lakes that our houseboats are moored. Here vendors glide up to your front doorstep with floating stores of fruit, flowers, shawls, jewelry, carpets, etc.
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