Garden of Dreams

The Basics

The European look of the Garden of Dreams follows Nepali architecture of the early 20th century, which itself was inspired by neoclassical European architecture. The Garden of Dreams was designed by Field Marshal Sir Kaiser Shumsher Rana and consists of well-tended lawns, pavilions, statues, pergolas, and birdhouses. Travelers in Kathmandu often visit the Garden of Dreams if they’re staying, shopping, or eating in Thamel or as part of a tour.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an entry fee; non-Nepali visitors pay significantly more than Nepalis.

• The on-site Kaiser Cafe is an upmarket place to grab a snack, a meal, or just a drink while admiring the gardens.

• If you visit just to go to the cafe, you still need to pay the entrance fee.

• Sun lounging mats are available free of charge.

How to Get There

The Garden of Dreams is located on Tridevi Sadak, the road between Kantipath and Thamel. Travelers staying in Thamel—with its high concentration of hotels—will be able to walk to it easily. If staying elsewhere, take a taxi and tell the driver to head to the Garden of Dreams in Thamel.

When to Get There

The Garden of Dreams is open daily from morning to late evening. The mornings and afternoons are the best time to relax in the gardens, while the evening is a good time to sit at a balcony table in the restaurant with a meal or a drink and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Godawari Botanical Gardens

Kathmandu is not known for its well-kept parks, but along with Garden of Dreams, the Godawari Botanical Gardens offers a natural escape. Godawari is located to the southeast of central Kathmandu and east of Patan, and it can take up to an hour to get there via car. The grounds are large, the air is clean, and there are lots of native Nepali plants and butterflies to admire.