In Jammu and Kashmir a massive fire reportedly broke out in the capital city Srinagar's Dal Lake and several house boats were reduced to complete ashes including at least about three tourists.

India: Five houseboats destroyed by fire in Srinagar's Dal Lake

Several houseboats were gutted after a massive fire broke out on a houseboat in Dal Lake on the outskirts of Srinagar district in Jammu and Kashmir, officials said.

India: Massive fire at Srinagar's Dal Lake destroys several houseboats

It is good news for the houseboat community living on the world-famous Dal Lake in the Kashmir Valley. The government has allowed repair and renovation work for century-old houseboats, which are on the verge of collapse and were desperately in need of a facelift.

In a big relief, after five decades, govt allows repair, renovation of houseboats in Kashmir Valley

While Kashmir witnessed a huge tourist arrival in summers this year, the government of Jammu and Kashmir along with Tourism department is leaving no stone unturned to make the winter season as attractive for the tourists to visit Kashmir Valley.

Kashmir prepares for winter season tourism, houseboat festival held on Dal Lake

If you thought Kashmir Valley was boring during the nights, you are mistaken. Illuminated Shikaras would be ready to take you on a dreamy ride during night as well.

Tourism department illuminates Shikaras on Dal Lake to boost nightlife in Kashmir

After the famed floating gardens and floating post office, Dal Lake in Jammu and Kashmir’s Srinagar gets its first floating ATM. The cash dispensing machine has been installed for the convenience of people living near the lake as well as for the tourists staying in the houseboats.

Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal Lake gets its first floating ATM

The houseboats in Kashmir valley are famous all around the world but they have been dying a slow death. The numbers have gone down from 5,000 houseboats to 900. And at this speed, it seems they might become history soon.

How Kashmir is losing its houseboat heritage

One of the most endearing sights of Kashmir that draw tourists to this valley are the houseboats on the Dal and Nagin lakes.

The story of houseboats in Kashmir | One-of-a-kind living experience | Dal Lake

The famous houseboat industry in Kashmir valley is struggling to stay afloat, courtesy COVID-19 pandemic. However, is hopeful of brighter days. For almost a year now, most of them haven't earned anything but are welcoming tourists.

Houseboat, a floating marvel of Kashmir valley faces trouble

Kashmir is a paradise for skiers, honeymooners, and film-makers. The surreal beauty of Kashmir draws thousands of tourists every year but a sense of stagnancy was ushered in following the scrapping of the special status of the erstwhile state. Authorities in Kashmir are now trying to give the tourism sector a major boost. They are starting with the houseboats. Watch report:

South Asia Diary: Kashmir is often called the Switzerland of the east

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