Tag: Srinagar homestays

A Complete IHPL Srinagar 2025 Guide: Tickets, Schedule, Best Stays & Travel Guide

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Welcome to the valley where cricket meets Kashmir’s calm. The Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL) in Srinagar is the region’s first-ever franchise T20 cricket tournament, taking place at the iconic Bakshi Stadium Srinagar. Having begun on 25 October 2025, this event isn’t just about boundaries and wickets, it’s about blending Kashmir’s scenic charm with world-class cricket. Whether you’re a die-hard fan looking for IHPL Srinagar 2025 tickets or a traveller seeking the best staycation near Bakshi Stadium, this guide will help you plan the ultimate itinerary—where to stay, what to see, and how to make your Kashmir trip unforgettable.

What is the Indian Heaven Premier League (IHPL)

The IHPL Srinagar 2025 is the first T20 cricket tournament of its kind in Jammu & Kashmir, held at Bakshi Stadium in the heart of Srinagar city. The season runs from 25 October to early November 2025, featuring eight teams competing across multiple match days.

It’s a unique initiative designed to merge local Kashmiri talent with national and international cricket stars, turning Srinagar into a new hub for sports and tourism. Fans can now enjoy Kashmir’s cricket tournament while exploring the region’s landscapes, cuisine, and culture.

Why You Should Visit as a Cricket and Travel Enthusiast

  • Watch live T20 cricket matches in Srinagar at a newly refurbished stadium surrounded by mountains.
  • Combine your match schedule with Srinagar sightseeing and Dal Lake experiences.
  • Stay at SaffronStays villas and houseboats near Bakshi Stadium for the perfect cricket travel experience.
  • Use this IHPL Srinagar travel guide to find the best villas, houseboats, and cottages for your stay.

IHPL Teams and International Players to Watch

The IHPL 2025 players list includes an exciting mix of stars:

  • Chris Gayle (West Indies) – Pulwama Titans
  • Martin Guptill (New Zealand) – Uri Panthers
  • Shaun Marsh, Richard Levi, Peter Trego, Owais Shah, Thisara Perera, Devon Smith, Malinda Pushpakumara, Chris Mpofu
  • Indian domestic pros: Rishi Dhawan, Saurabh Tiwary, Gurkeerat Singh Mann

Whether you’re searching for the IHPL international players list 2025 or the IHPL schedule and tickets, this guide links your passion for cricket with your love for travel.

Where to Stay Near Bakshi Stadium Srinagar

Looking for where to stay near Bakshi Stadium for IHPL matches? Here are the best villas, houseboats, and cottages, all mapped by drive time from the venue.

1. Badakshan Bliss – 16 mins away
 Located in Rawalpora, Srinagar, this 5-bedroom villa blends modern comfort with traditional Kashmiri design. Just 10 minutes from the airport and 16 minutes from Bakshi Stadium, it’s perfect for cricket fans attending IHPL 2025 who want quick access and quiet luxury.

2. Awakening – 18 mins away
 A heritage villa in Srinagar built in 1938, featuring Khattamband ceilings and cedarwood interiors. Enjoy tranquil mornings near the Jhelum River before heading to match day. Ideal for those seeking a Srinagar villa near Bakshi Stadium with cultural charm.

3. Prince Of Kashmir – 21 mins away
 A luxury Dal Lake houseboat offering lake views, carved walnut interiors, and shikara rides from your doorstep. It’s the best choice for visitors searching for Dal Lake houseboat stays near cricket stadium Srinagar.

4. Kingori Houseboat – 22 mins away
 Anchored at Ghat 14, Dal Lake, this houseboat offers peace and privacy for couples and small families. Ideal for travellers looking for a houseboat near IHPL Bakshi Stadium with premium comfort.

5. King Mahal – 32 mins away
 A 7-bedroom luxury villa near Dal Lake Srinagar, known for being a shooting location for the series Pashminna – Dhaage Mohabbat Ke. Perfect for large groups and families combining IHPL matches with a longer Srinagar staycation.

6. Cheese Cottage, Tangmarg – 70 mins away
 Located in Tangmarg, this boutique 2-bedroom cottage offers Himalayan views and riverside picnics. Perfect for fans wanting an offbeat Kashmir experience after attending IHPL matches in Srinagar.

3-Day Quick Itinerary: Match + Stay + Explore

Day 1

  • Arrive at Srinagar Airport and check in at Badakshan Bliss or SaffronStays Awakening.
  • Explore nearby cafés and take a calm evening walk by the Jhelum River.
  • Dinner and rest before your IHPL match day.

Day 2

  • Morning: Visit Shalimar Bagh or Chashme Shahi Mughal Gardens.
  • Afternoon: Reach Bakshi Stadium Srinagar one hour before match time.
  • Evening: Return to your villa or enjoy dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant for authentic Wazwan cuisine.

Day 3

  • Move to a Dal Lake houseboat stay (Prince of Kashmir or Kingori) for a relaxed morning.
  • Take a shikara ride at sunset, sip Kashmiri Kahwa, and plan the next leg of your Kashmir travel itinerary.

5-Day Powerplay Itinerary: Full Kashmir Experience

Day 1: Arrive and check-in to your SaffronStays villa in Srinagar
 Day 2: Watch IHPL matches at Bakshi Stadium
 Day 3: Second game or city exploration – Spend your day watching another match or explore the city
 Day 4: Shift to a SaffronStays houseboat on Dal Lake for a relaxing stay
Day 5: Drive to Tangmarg and check-in to SaffronStays Cheese Cottage to experience offbeat Kashmir.
Day 6: Departure from Srinagar Airport

Stadium 101: Match-Day Tips for Visitors

  • Venue: Bakshi Stadium, Wazir Bagh Srinagar
  • Arrive 60 minutes early for easy entry
  • IHPL tickets available online (official booking portals)
  • Carry light bags and IDs
  • Use your villa’s driver or local taxi service for stadium transfer
  • Bring a light jacket for evening matches

5 Must-Visit Spots in Srinagar (Tour + Food Mix)

  1. Dal Lake and Shikara Ride – Ideal for sunrise or sunset.
  2. Mughal Gardens – Visit Shalimar Bagh, Chashme Shahi, and Pari Mahal.
  3. Shankaracharya Temple – Offers panoramic city and lake views.
  4. Hazratbal Mosque and Market – Perfect for Kashmiri handicrafts and local culture.
  5. Ahdoos Restaurant – Enjoy authentic Wazwan food in Srinagar.


Practical Travel Tips for IHPL Visitors

  • Best time to visit: Late October to early November (matches + fall scenery)
  • Airport: 10–20 minutes from most IHPL Srinagar villas
  • Payments: UPI and cards accepted; carry small cash
  • Clothing: Layer up, evenings are cool
  • Book early: IHPL hotels and houseboats fill fast during the league
  • Respect culture: Dress modestly, be courteous

FAQs: IHPL Srinagar 2025

1. What is IHPL?
 The Indian Heaven Premier League is Kashmir’s first T20 cricket tournament, hosted at Bakshi Stadium Srinagar starting 25 October 2025.

2. Where is Bakshi Stadium?
 In Wazir Bagh, near Iqbal Park Srinagar, surrounded by hotels and villas within 15–30 minutes.

3. How do I get IHPL tickets?
 Buy IHPL Srinagar tickets online via the official league portal.

4. Which are the best stays near Bakshi Stadium?
 Badakshan Bliss, SaffronStays Awakening, Prince of Kashmir Houseboat, and King Mahal are top-rated.

5. What else to do in Srinagar during IHPL?
 Take a shikara ride on Dal Lake, visit Mughal Gardens, and explore Tangmarg Cheese Cottage post-match.

Your IHPL × Kashmir Travel Game Plan

The IHPL Srinagar 2025 is your ticket to explore Kashmir, experience Kashmiri hospitality, and stay at the best villas and houseboats near Bakshi Stadium. Whether you’re traveling for the IHPL schedule and matches or for Kashmir’s scenic beauty, plan your stay smart—villa for match days, houseboat for relaxation, and Tangmarg cottage for your grand finale.

9 Gorgeous Srinagar homestays to experience true Kashmiri hospitality

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Homestay in Srinagar

By Aatreya Bhat

A highly under-rated destination, Srinagar is paradise on Earth. Changing hues during different seasons, there is a lot to see here.It is flanked by the Himalayas to the north and the Pir Panjal to the south, which are the source of many rivers that flow downhill and are adorned by forests and orchards throughout their course. Situated on both the sides of the Jhelum river, the 9 old bridges that connect the two banks are very famous. If you’re a foodie, then you definitely should not miss the “Wazwaan”, or the 36-course meal followed by local “kahwa” or green tea. The ‘Nishat Baag’ is a favourite among tourists- it consists of 12 terraces and an innumerable number of flower species. The Dal Lake is without doubt the strongest tourist magnet, and if you’re lucky, in the winter you can also witness the lake freezing up.

At SaffronStays, we bring to you a host of homestays in Srinagar where you can set base at and enjoy a memorable vacation!

 

#1. Villa in the heart of Srinagar.

Located in the heart of Srinagar, this colourful villa fits all the criteria that you may want in a home. It is an ancestral property and the history of the place is depicted through the myriad pictures and paintings that adorn the walls of the house. The rooms are comfortable and have a private seating outside. It is close to the market and about 4 kms away from the Dal Lake. In the evenings, you can enjoy a tasty dinner in the garden.

Villa in the heart of Srinagar

Homestay in the heart of Srinagar

Click here to know more and book.

 

#2. Royal villa overlooking Dal Lake.

Experience the imperial life by choosing this homestay whose owners are the descendants of the last ruling Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir, Maharaja Hari Singh. Set against the jaw-dropping backdrop of Zabarwan range and overlooking the Dal Lake, this homestay is the epitome of beauty. The estate is dotted with plum, apple and cherry orchards and the home-made jam, which is also for sale, is a favourite among guests.

Royal villa overlooking Dal lake

Royal villa overlooking the Dal Lake

Click here to know more and book.

 

#3. Heritage houseboat stay

Considered to be one of the only two heritage houseboats in India, your stay here is replete with luxuries. Artistically decorated with heritage paintings and cedar wood furniture, walk back the history lane looking at the pre-independence letters and paintings. The deck on top overlooks the Dal Lake and the Himalayas: a sight you don’t want to miss!

Heritage houseboat stay in Srinagar

 

heritage houseboat stay

Click here to know more and book.

 

#4. Homestay on a hill

This homestay overlooks the Nishat Baag, thus a superb view is promised. A cosy, comfortable bungalow in the prime locality of Srinagar, it is close to all popular tourist spots. You can relax in the garden and enjoy a peaceful evening with your family, munching on some delicious home-cooked Kashmiri food.

homestay on a hill

homestay on a hilltop

Click here to know more and book.

 

#5. Villa overlooking Nageen lake

Designed in the traditional Royal Kashmiri way, you can feel the regality in this homestay. Beautiful paintings adorn every wall of the house. It is nestled between cherry, plum, pear and apple trees and the major tourist attractions like Dal Lake, Hazratbal shrine and Mughal Gardens are easily accessible. The Nageen area is perfect for scenic walks, after which you can retire for the day with a cup of steaming coffee by the hearth and forge fond, unforgettable memories.

Villa overlooking Nageen lake

Villa overlooking Nageen Lake

Click here to know more and book.

 

#6. Quaint cottage in Srinagar

Set in the seclusion of a private estate, this cottage is a nature-lover’s delight. Dotted with cherry, plum and apple orchards and set against the Zabarwan range, a lot of trekking awaits you! Oh, and there’s also a pond nearby, which is home to a number of migratory birds. Photographers, this is just the place for you!

Cottage in Srinagar

Click here to know more and book.

 

#7. Luxury guesthouse in Srinagar

Situated in the posh neighbourhood of Rajbagh, this house is nothing short of a dream house. The French windows that open into the lush garden, decorated with flowers are a highlight. Book lovers can sit down and get drowned in the collection of books here. Pets are welcome too and there is also a special kennel for dogs. There is a restaurant in the garden, which will take you back into Kashmiri history with it’s mud-plastered walls and lattice work windows.

Luxury guesthouse in Srinagar

Luxury guesthouse in Srinagar

Click here to know more and book.

 

#8. Boutique homestay in Srinagar

All you floriculturists out there, this is just the place for you! An awesome combination of comfort, greenery and colour is sure to enrich your experience. Constructed at the foothills of the Himalayas, you can go on early morning runs along the nearby stream. It is close to the Mughal gardens.

Boutique homestay

Boutique homestay

Click here to know more and book.

 

#9. Guesthouse stay

This stylish, luxury guesthouse in the posh Rajbagh area of Srinagar is nothing short of a 5-star hotel. Plush interiors, brilliant gardens, flawless hospitality and delicious food, they have it all. Local conveyance can be looked after by the host if requested.

Guesthouse in Srinagar

Guesthouse in Srinagar

Click here to know more and book.

Click here to check more options in Srinagar

SaffronStays.com brings you over 1200 homestays across India. Experience true Indian hospitality, the warmth of your local hosts and home-cooked authentic local food, in these homes.

About the Author:

Aatreya Bhat spends a major part of the day reading, writing and jamming. The rest of the day, he spends explaining his name to others. He loves reading political books and is a big fan of the caped crusader. Skydiving and experiencing a Manchester derby at the Trafford will always top his bucket list.

6 Anniversary Getaway ideas to fall in love all over again

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By Sarita Santoshini

Winters, coincidentally, also happen to be the months of weddings and subsequent wedding anniversaries. If you’ve already ticked a great honeymoon off your list and are looking for new ideas and ways to spend a romantic holiday with your spouse, we’ve got it all covered for you.

 

#1- Go Wild

This is of the Kanha property listed with us
After wildlife safaris in the day, spend the evening by the pool with a glass of wine. Photo by our host, Neelesh

Kerala homestays
Luxury tree houses in Periyar National Park at a height of 30 feet. Photo by our host, Saji

There’s something very wildly romantic about being with your partner, surrounded by acres of forest and knowing very well that the only thing separating you from the wild is a concrete wall. You could be in Kanha, waking up to the sight of the dense forests from the large windows in your luxurious room or in a tree house in Periyar where at a height of 30 feet, your private balconies will give you the best sight of bisons, elephants and barking deer. If you’re looking for something more adventurous and rustic, head to a homestay flanked by the forest in Dandeli or the earthen cottages in Jim Corbett National Park, accessible after a 2 km trek, where you can explore the magical forest on foot.

 

#2 – Whisk her off to an exotic land

Darjeeling Homestays
The breathtaking view from Kurseong. Photo by Sarita

Meghalaya Homestays
The scenic village of Kongthong in Meghalaya. Photo by our host, Aniduhan.

sikkim homestays
A luxury cottage in Sikkim with a dense beautiful forest at the backdrop. Photo by Sarita

When you live in a country like India, you need not look elsewhere for an exotic idea. The states in East and North-east India, untouched, scenic and extremely beautiful, make for some of the most romantic getaways. If you think Darjeeling is touristy, choose its lesser-known neighbour, Kurseong. Here, you can stay in a charming heritage property with some of the most characteristically-designed rooms or retire to Chimney, a scenic village with a dense juniper forest on one side and a bird’s-eye view of Teesta River and Siliguri on the other side, and enjoy long walks together. In Sikkim, you can stay in beautiful cottages that lie tucked in the midst of misty forests, with only the songs of birds and the whistling wind for company. You can also escape further to Meghalaya, to a resort by the lake in Shillong, to a farm house near the Sacred Grove Forest in Mawphlang or to remote villages like Kongthong and Mawphanlur where, after long scenic treks, you can sit together on a hill top and watch a gorgeous sunset together.

 

#3 – Treat her like a Queen! Live like Royalty 

Rajasthan Homestays
A beautiful room, once occupied by the Maharani, in a Heritage Haveli in Jaipur. Photo by Sarita

Raasthan homestays
Step out of your luxury rooms and right into a pool like this in a Heritage Haveli in Jodhpur. Photo by Sarita

It’s your anniversary and we think that’s a great reason to be treated royally. Yes, we are referring to some beautiful heritage havelis in Rajasthan where you can soak up the winter sun in the traditional courtyards or on a sundeck by the swimming pools or simply never step out of your lavish rooms that come with antique four poster beds and jharokas. In the romantic city of Udaipur, you can stay in rooms by the Lake Pichola and sip wine in your very own private terrace. Then there are Colonial Bungalows surrounded by coffee plantations in Coorg, complete with Victorian furniture, large verandas and manicured lawns, where you’ll have plenty of scenic private space for yourselves.

 

#4 – Get snowed in!

Himachal homestays
The beautiful hill town of Kotgarh turns white and magical in December. Photo by our host, Shezad

Who wouldn’t want to be tucked under a blanket in a heated room and watch the streets outside get covered with snow or perhaps go out there and get into a snow fight? You can take your pick from beautiful cottages surrounded by apple orchards in Manali or in Kotgarh, a quieter alternative to Shimla, where the temperatures will be low and snowfall plenty. There’s the haven of romantics, Srinagar, where charming bungalows and villas offer plenty of luxury, privacy and comfort on snowy days. The beautiful hill town of Nainital makes for a great option too.

 

#5 – Escape to a virgin beach/river island

Coastal Maharashtra Homestays
Spend an evening in a beach in Ratnagiri with a hundred odd migratory sea gulls. Photo by Sarita

wooden chalet by the river in Goa
Watch the world go by with your soulmate, as you dip your feet in the river from the pier of this wooden house. Photo by our host, Capt Leo

We’re sure you’ve spent many holidays in Goa and seen all the beaches, but it is in the beautiful, lesser-known Divar Island, accessible by ferry from Old Goa, and in a wooden chalet on the banks of the Mandovi river that you can truly experience the Goan Susegad life.  If you aren’t fussed about the luxuries of a high end resort, Coastal Maharashtra offers some pristine and unexplored beaches. Perfect for those endless sunset walks on soft sand and long conversations with your feet dipped in the cold water. All this with the promise of not a soul around.

 

#6 – Sail on tranquil waters for days

Kerala homestays
The picturesque backwaters of Kerala. Photo source: insightsindia.blogspot.in

Srinagar Homestays
Heritage houseboats in Dal Lake make for one of the most romantic stays. Photo source: asiaexplorers.com

There’s no denying that the backwaters of Kerala make for some of the most scenic destinations in India. Imagine having a lovely room to yourself, complete with dining and seating arrangements at the deck of your luxury houseboat, and floating in the backwaters for days. If this idea interests you, you can also opt to stay in a heritage houseboat in the beautiful Dal Lake of Srinagar. No meal or conversation can ever be devoid of romance when you’re floating in these tranquil waters. Enjoy the star-lit skies, count the shooting stars from the deck, and you can almost hear the notes of the santoor playing.

 

Ready to make your anniversary special? Visit our website to book a stay in a beautiful location now!

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About the Author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog-http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.

Warm host family and some lip-smacking home-cooked meals

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This is a typical cosy Kashmiri home converted into a homestay. It is located within a walking distance from the serene Nageen lake.  All rooms are spacious & nicely maintained & all rooms have a great view. The host family is very friendly, supportive & very helpful in all ways. Mrs. Shakila is very jolly person with a great interest in art. She has many handmade arts, created by her, displayed in her home. And the best thing is that she personally cooks food for guests and trust me its yummy. A great experience to stay with a Kashmiri Family.

Caring host, lovely food and great property make a perfect holiday

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This cottage is located in the heart of the city. It has rooms decorated in royal style and very nice surroundings, and a big lawn that makes for lovely evenings settings. Host family & specially Mrs Anita, is very friendly & supporting. It was a great experience to meet her & spend time with her. She personally takes care of her guests. Food served in cottage is yummy, pure veg kashmiri food. In short, a must stay place in Srinagar.