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A seven-key Sufi-inspired sanctuary perched on a secluded ridge in the Zabarwan Hills—where private cedarwood villas, traditional Bukhari wood stoves, and an infinity pool look out over Dal Lake.
Created by Altaf Chapri and the team behind Srinagar’s eco-luxury Sukoon Houseboat, Qayaam Gah sits on a quiet, terraced ridge in the Bren Hills within the Zabarwan range. In Sufi philosophy, Sukoon represents the initial state of unshakeable peace, while Qayaam signifies the highest mystical station—a place of quiet resting and oneness. The retreat was conceived specifically as a high-altitude sanctuary where guests can experience Kashmir’s natural solitude away from the busier tourist channels of central Srinagar.
The retreat comprises just seven accommodations—four independent cedarwood villas and three luxury suites—ensuring an intimate, uncrowded atmosphere. The four villas are named after revered historical Sufi poets and mystics (Rumi, Lal Ded, Habba Khatoon, and Rabia). Designed using vernacular building techniques, the structures combine thick local stone masonry, large double-glazed view windows, and cedar wood interiors decorated with hand-knotted Kashmiri rugs.
Accommodation interiors balance traditional mountain comfort with refined detail. Each villa features an oversized private verandah offering uninterrupted 180-degree panoramas of Dal Lake, the Hazratbal Shrine, and the surrounding mountain ridge. For sub-zero winter temperatures, every suite and villa is equipped with a traditional Bukhari (a wood-burning stove), supplemented by modern underfloor heating and en-suite bathrooms fitted with deep soaking tubs.
Dining takes place at Ruh—the soul of the estate—a pavilion housing the main dining room, library, and a sunken outdoor fire pit. The kitchen focuses on seasonal Kashmiri specialties and international dishes, preparing meals using herbs and produce picked daily from the estate’s organic spring-fed garden. Breakfasts and special dining experiences can also be served on Qalb, an elevated outdoor dining deck designed for sunrise views.
The rhythm at Qayaam Gah is slow and intentional. Guests spend their mornings sipping saffron-infused Kahwa tea from a traditional samovar, swimming in the outdoor heated infinity pool facing the valley, or practicing yoga on the lawn. Its location serves as a quiet gateway for guided day hikes into the adjacent Dachigam National Park—home to the rare Hangul stag—or short descents down to Dal Lake for private Shikara
Qayaam Gah is Srinagar's most serene, thoughtful ridge retreat. We recommend it specifically to couples, writers, and travelers seeking complete privacy, exceptional food, and Sufi-inspired solitude high above Dal Lake.
Because Qayaam Gah houses only seven accommodations and requires advance arrangement for mountain transfers, private hikes, and seasonal dates, every reservation is handled personally. Connect with our team to discuss villa availability, flight connections, and custom Kashmiri itineraries.
Many of our guests combine multiple destinations into one seamless journey. Whether you’re planning a North circuit or travelling further across India, we’ll personally design an itinerary that brings together exceptional stays, private transfers and memorable experiences—tailored entirely around you.
