Garden of Dreams in Kathmandu, a place that should be on your must-visit list if you are craving for some tranquility away from the busy road of Kathmandu valley is the Garden of Dreams. The place itself is a dream in its name.
The crowdedness, blowing of horns, and air pollution in Kathmandu can feel exhausting, so the Garden of Dreams can be a better place to relax. The botanical place, surreal with greenery, will transfer positive energy to the body. In other words, it is also known as an oasis of peace and tranquility in Kathmandu.
Similarly, Gardens of Dreams has become the most famous place for day action, yoga, and photoshoots. Most of the youth visit here to spend quality time. Let’s talk about some history related to the Garden of Dreams.
Garden of Dreams is pronounced Swapna Bagaicha in Nepali. It is also well known as the Garden of Six Seasons. It is a neoclassical planned garden that is located in the Thamel Kathmandu under the Kaiser Palace.
Before it was established in the 1920s, it was stunningly protected as greenery, compelling fountains, garden theater, and eye-appealing flowers. It was an unimaginable place in between the busy roads of Kathmandu, which is fascinating and rare in the city.
Similarly, you are willing to explore the Garden of Dreams. You can visit mostly in autumn and spring. From March to May, there’s a spring season in Nepal. You can have a glimpse of greenery, blooming flowers, and beautiful weather. On the other hand, from September to November, you can experience the stunning beauty of the garden with a clear sky.
Sign board of Garden of dreams in the entrance gate
Highlights of Garden of Dreams
Peaceful oasis in Kathmandu
Built in the early 1920s by Kaiser Sumsher Rana.
Stunning architecture and design
Lotus pond, European-style statues, exotic plants, and serene fountains.
Kaiser Library
Perfect for relaxation and photography
Accessible and Affordable
History of Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams has archival value, which was established in early 1920. In other words, Dreams of Greenery was created by Marshal Kaiser Sumsher Rana. Primarily, it was renowned as the Gardens of Six Seasons. Likewise, back then, the Kaiser Garden was the entry gate for the former Royal Palace, which made it more renowned.
Similarly, Marshal Kaiser was the reigning Maharaja and Prime Minister's third son. A long time back, the Garden of Dreams was the private land of Kaiser Sumsher Rana. Later, after his demise, it was handed over to the government of Nepal. But it was abandoned for a decade. Due to the neglect, it has resulted in the crumbling of the structure and degradation of flora. In addition, the garden was messy and overgrown. Including popular subtropical plants, they were slowly disappearing.
In the 20s, it was planned to be brought back to life and taken as the biggest project. On the contrary, it was restored between 2000 and 2007 with the support of International Government Development. With the aid of Austrian Development Aid and the Ministry of Education, they believe in reviving the historical monuments of South Asia. This project has become the biggest mission for long-term planning for any historic site.
In addition, the garden has a fascinating design that has a connection to the gallery on horticulture, architecture, and literature in the Kaiser Shumsher’s library. The restoration program was conducted by Austrian citizen Gotz Hagmuller, who was the restoration architect.
Thus, after the completion of rehabilitation, the garden has been upgraded with additional modern facilities. So, we as visitors get a chance to experience such a wonderful creation. It was one of the sophisticated private gardens of that time due to Edwardian-style architecture.
Entrance gate of Garden of Dreams in Thamel
Marvellous Architecture
Let’s talk about the marvelous architecture of the garden. The design of Garden of Dreams is a uniform texture, which was crafted as informal and natural planting. Also, it was based on modern design in the 1920s compared to the 20th century. Likewise, some of the individual marque gossips were persuaded through pattern and local adaptation books.
The architect of our Gardens of Dream was Kishore Narsingh. He played a major role in the detailed layout and implementation of the garden at the request of the client. In the same way, he and his brother have designed the most stunning buildings, such as Singha Durbar and Kaisher Shumsher Durbar. So, he has enough experience with the sophistication of Mr. Shumsher to create a marvelous Garden of Dreams.
Talking about the structure of GOD, you can gain insights into some exotic and primordial plants that are found. The aesthetic vibes of environments contribute to the serenity in the gardens. Furthermore, the walls of Kaiser’s Gardens have exquisite pavilions, stunning sprouts, eye-catching gardens, well-furnished woods, and European-style statues.
Similarly, we all know that the Garden of Dreams has six seasons. Based on that, it has six magnificent freestanding pavilions. That defines the structural design and framework of gardens. Adding a touch-up to the global taste of various flower arrangements.
In the same way, the crucial glimpse of this place is the mesmerizing lotus pond in the middle of the garden. That is a major attraction for visitors and photographers. Also, it allows visitors to roam around and feel the beauty of it. Likewise, adding some advantages, it has different types of shrubs, plants, trees, rare flowers, and butterflies.
Moreover, you can gain insights from Omar Khayyam’s Rubaiyat valuable marble engraving. Well, the visitor loves those peaceful and soft sounds of the fountains, which surround them in the beauty of the garden. Similarly, it grabbed the attention of plants with popular sunken flowers in the big ponds in the garden. On the other hand, some of the recent restoration works have encouraged the promotion of historical events and vibrant culture for the people.
beautiful architecture in the garden of dreams
How to get there?
Garden of Dreams is 2 minutes away from Thamel. If you are in other locations you can easily get taxi or buses to get there. It is located at Tridevi Marg and is in between Thamel and Tridevi Marg. Similarly, different types of popular restaurants are located nearby, such as Himalayan Java, Fire and Ice, Marriott Hotel, and Korean picnic food.
Through Road:
You can easily travel by road. Either you can take a taxi or public bus to reach there. If you are near the Thamel area, then you can travel by walking. Otherwise, you are a little far from the area; you can travel by taxi and public buses at your convenience.
Entry Fee to Garden Of Dreams:
Nepali Citizen: 150 per person
Non-Nepali: 400 per person
25% discount for ten tickets
Annual Membership for Nepali Citizens: Rs.3000
Annual Membership for Non-Nepali Citizens: Rs.5000
Beautiful of view of Garden of Dream Thamel
Where is the Garden of Dreams Located?
The Garden of Dreams is located in Tribhuvan Sadak in Kathmandu near the Thamel area and just a 2-minute walk from Thamel and is approximately 2 kilometers northeast of Kathmandu Durbar Square.
Activities to do in the Garden of Dreams
Some of the wonderful activities are available in the garden to entertain the visitors. Firstly, you can take a rest in the garden; it has natural seats and beautiful paved gardens. Where you can relax and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the garden.
If you want to enjoy yourself, then you can read books and empower your wisdom. Similarly, if you are willing to feel the serenity of gardens, then you can do yoga. It heals and creates positive vibes in your body.
In addition, it has different outlets inside the Garden of Dreams where you can enjoy delicious food. There you can visit the Kaiser cafe for meals and coffee, enjoying the pavilions. Likewise, there’s Kasier Gallery, a museum to visit and a library to explore. In the same way, there is an amphitheater for hosting and singing to rejuvenate your mind.
People spending their time in the Garden
How can you spend your time?
Firstly, you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
If you are a book lover, you can spend time with yourself.
You have yoga for positivity.
Things to remember in Garden of Dreams
Check out the opening hours of the garden before you visit.
For a better quality of time, either visit in the morning or late evening.
Don’t play loud music.
Remember to take the camera with you to capture stunning views.
Take hats and caps and apply sunscreen to avoid sun tan.
greenery view inside the garden of dreams
The Kaiser Cafe
Ever wonder if you got hungry while enjoying the beauty of gardens of dreams? Then you should visit Kaiser Cafe. Kaiser Cafe is run by Dwarika Hotel, which is a 5-star property hotel. It is on the premises of Garden of Dreams.
You can have small snacks such as coffee and cakes. Similarly, you can have five-star quality food through its menu. The interior of the cafe is aesthetic and historical.
Kaiser Library
The Kaiser Library is the next place to visit after the Garden of Dreams. This is a public library located at the Kaiser Palace complex. Kaiser Library was established by Chandra Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana for his son in 1907.
It has some rare and primeval books on Buddhism, Tantrism, and astrology.
In this same vein, there is an attractive detail that some 1100-year-old medicine literature written in Sanskrit by Sushruta Samhita is listed under UNESCO. Equally, it was scribed on a palm-leaf manuscript, which has been preserved since.
Well, our beloved Kaiser was indulged in books, antiques, and painting. During his lifetime, it was allowed to be used only by his family members. Later on, it was handed over to the Nepalese government so that the public could enjoy the readings.
Sadly, some of the books, like 9,000, were damaged during the massive earthquake. And 50,000 books were handed over by Kaiser’s wife after his demise to the library.
So, if you are near the Garden of Dreams, you should visit the Kaiser Library too.
The Kaiser Library is a government run public library in Kathmandu, Nepal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Garden of Dreams
Is it worth visiting the Garden of Dreams?
Indeed, the Garden of Dreams is definitely a must-see! It boasts exquisitely trimmed lawns, gracefully built pavilions, fountains, ponds, and even provides a café where one can sit back and relax.
When is the best time to visit the Garden of Dreams?
The best time to travel to the Garden of Dreams is from March to May and September to November when the garden would be blooming at its best.
What are the garden's opening hours?
The garden is open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. It is recommended to inquire in advance.
Are foods and drinks available inside the garden?
Yes, Kaiser Café is run by Dwarika's Hotel, where tea, coffee, sandwiches, confectioneries, and hot meals in the form of a buffet are provided for eats.
Is Photography allowed inside the garden?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the garden, as it is a popular spot for photoshoots due to its beautiful landscapes.
Around the Garden
Conclusion
At last, the Garden of Dreams in Thamel, Nepal is a suitable escape from the busy chaos of Kathmandu, which makes it a must-visit oasis for people looking for that little piece of calm. You would find it an invitation to stay a little longer as the peaceful and calm environment captures your heart.
The garden is extremely well designed and is reflecting, of course, the six seasons, and that architecture will absolutely amaze you. While walking through the pathways, one can witness really incredible views of sunken flower beds around the largest pond at the center, a moment to stop and take in the beauty surrounding you.
It becomes so beautified by a variety of plants and species of flowers and turns into a haven for the butterflies to enjoy their fluttering from blossom to blossom. The mellifluous sound of flowing water, beautiful spots for stepping back and taking it in, perhaps, even reading a few pages corners have wonder to reveal. If you want to take a break from the Garden of Dreams, that protective shell you will need during your rejuvenating experience while remembering that this sanctuary will leave you memory-full.
Similarly, you can enjoy your quality time in the garden. There are different outlets inside the premises that you just want to skip your home for that day. You can relax and let everything go. So, absolutely yes, it is worth visiting.
Garden of Dreams will reveal to you what natural beauty means. It will make you understand the real essence of peace and success that you achieve after overcoming the hurdles. If you want to know more feel free to contact us.
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