An abode of peace by the Nagin Lake

It may be slightly overstuffed in the upholstery department, but drawing back the window dressing reminds us why we chose to stay seven kilometres from where the action is — Dar-Es-Salam is located right on Nagin Lake, in elegant grounds. The 14-room boutique property’s other great attractions: central heating in a log-lined, colonial style property and the riverside barbecue restaurant. Meals are pre fixed and delicious, service slightly laidback, coffee freshly brewed. The tiny jetty at the bottom of the lawns leads to an early-morning shikara ride to the Dal Lake. Tariff: Rs 6,950–18,000 doubles, meals extra. Contact: 0194-2427803, hoteldaressalam.com