Situated in the rolling Zabarwan Mountain range, Qayaam Gah offers a retreat into nature like no other hotel in Kashmir. Sublimely comfortable, intimate, peaceful, stylish and authentic, whilst here one can walk or trek in the hills; take drives through the Dara Mountain range; visit Dachigam National Park; picnic in the wilderness; take gentle Shikhara (local boats like gondolas) on glistening Dal Lake seeing the floating markets and lake life; visit the historic old town of Srinagar and the stunning Mughal Gardens; practice yoga on the sun-filled terrace; feast on delicious local and international cuisine; visit Sufi shrines and hilltop temples – the world really is your ‘oyster’ up here where the air is fresh and pure. For those preferring a mountain retreat rather than a lake based houseboat, Qayaam Gah has it all.

The Vale of Kashmir has long been celebrated by poets and painters as a stunningly beautiful terrain – a miniature heaven on earth. What is often overlooked is that in addition to its natural beauty, the valley hosts a culture that has been shaped by one of the subtlest philosophies known to mankind – the teachings of Sufism, the inner heart of Islam. Qayaam Gah - ‘The Abode of Peace’ – has been created with the aim of celebrating this legacy offering one a chance to immerse oneself in a subtle ambiance of the nature, history, shrines, forests and mountains of the valley.

There are 4 huge, stunning villas with their own sitting rooms, verandahs and dining areas; along with 3 beautiful, spacious suites. All have incredible views over the lake below and / or the surrounding mountains, and have been very sensitively designed to blend in seamlessly with the environment. They want for nothing in terms of comfort, amenities, space and state of the art furnishings and fittings.

A short stroll up from the glorious, heated infinity pool and terrace is The Ruh – the inner soul of the property which sits atop its own plinth and is home to a cosy sitting area filled with rugs, a log fire, beautiful wood carvings and imagery, the restaurant and library – again with views to die for from the wrap around terrace. The Deck also serves delicious local delicacies and is the perfect sunrise or sundowner spot.

The grounds of the complex have been purposefully left undisturbed so as not to encroach on the natural environment, and to encourage the abundant wildlife of the area. This includes many types of native and migratory birds, shy snow leopards and the winsome sloth bears which come to pick the cherries in springtime. The site is fed by natural spring water and not one tree was felled during the construction of the retreat. The buildings are a combination of cedar wood, glass and stone, with details picked out in the traditional Kashmiri style of fine carving in floral and vegetal motifs in deodar woodwork. It’s all about indoor / outdoor living here and maxing out the views and scenery.

Come and spend time at this fabulous mountain retreat – the perfect summer holiday destination which combines wonderfully well with time on Sukoon Houseboat on Dal Lake or with a Shakti Himalaya adventure in neighbouring Ladakh. It is equally cosy and inviting and exciting to visit in winter – perhaps combined with a spot of skiing at the nearby resort of Gulmarg.