The orginal building was purchased over a hundred years ago by my Grandfather over a hundred years ago.
The original family came from an area (now part of Pakistan)called Gakhar - Abad. It is considered as a heritage property as it is the only island of it's size, approx 32 Kanals of land with one of the oldest and the largest Chinar trees in Kashmir Valley.' with a girth of 45' and estimated to me 450 years old. There is also a mosque on the island (since renovated) where Dr. Alama Iqbal has said to have offered prayer, with my grandfather, when visited Kashmir in June 1921. Name of the mosque is Masjid-e-Samad, and is open to general public.
During the second world war, British and American Air Force officers would come to stay at the hotel when visiting Kashmir for rest and recreation (R&R). After India and Pakistan became two independent sovereign states in 1947/48, they fought over Kashmir and the hotel was closed.. It was not until 1978 the family decided to restructure and renovate the hotel. It was opened in Sept, 1981. It was closed again in Sept.1989 when the militancy started. and was closed until April 1998. As the militancy petered out, hotels started renovated again until Kargil was started in May of 1999., thus effecting the tourist business. The Property did not open until 2004. Its unique peaceful and serene and clean environment for lodging, parties, picnics and weddings.
Stringent: No charges will be levied if booking is canceled 61 days prior to check-in. If cancellation is done between 30 to 60 days prior to check-in, 50% of the total booking amount will be charged. Post that, there will be no refund.
Loud Music not allowed. Pets not allowed.
