Garden of dreams is a historical and touristic place located at the entrance of Thamel, a tourist spot in Kathmandu. Presenting a unique example of architecture, this garden is also known as a nature museum. Some people call this garden a ‘dream paradise’, while others call it a mini-Europe. It was named after the 6 seasons so it also popular as Garden of Six Seasons. Ponds, European-style amphitheater, pergolas, pavilions, and birdhouses of various types make this garden more attractive. Peaceful and clean, this garden is perfect for learning and enjoying the historical architecture along with the natural beauty.
The Garden of Dreams is a fantasy in its own right, ideal for a romantic evening with a loved one or a tranquil of few hours by yourself. The lovely vegetation is undoubtedly a remedy for a weary spirit, serving as an oasis of quiet in the center of busy Kathmandu. So, it’s not surprising to see a lot of folks lying around in the yard with a book in their hands or simply taking a sleep in the beautiful sunny weather. Private and group functions as well as cultural and other programs can also be held inside this garden.
General Information
Please see the information below regarding Garden of Dreams opening hours, days of operation, and admission fees
Address: Tridevi Sadak, Kathmandu Nepal
Opening Hours: 9:00 am to 10:00 om
Ticket Price: NPR 400 (For Foreigners) and NPR 150 (For Nepalese)
Average time required to explore garden: 1.5 hours to 2 hours
History
The, then field marshal, Keshar Shamsher Jabara of the Nepalese army visited the garden of the British King ‘King Edward VII’ during his visit to Europe. After Keshar Shamsher returned from Britain, he requested his father Chandra Shamsher to build a similar garden, but Chandra Shamsher did not allow him, fearing that the public would not accept the work. And due to lack of money, Keshar Shamsher’s dream of making a huge garden remained unfulfilled.
Once during Tihar, he won one lakh rupees by gambling with his father. He built a dream garden by spending that one lakh rupees. The current garden is his ancient legacy. This garden is a confluence of landscape, architecture and botanical design which is also known as ‘Fusion of Three Elements’. After Keshar Shamsher’s death in 1964, this garden became the property of the Nepalese government. After that, due to lack of maintenance for a long time, the existence of this garden reached the point of extinction.
However, Visit Nepal 1998 helped to revive it. As a result, in 2002, an agreement was reached between the Austrian government and the government of Nepal for its reconstruction. It was decided to return it to the same structure after spending seven consecutive years, and in 2007, with the help of Austrian Government, it was restored and reconstructed for one million dollars. Built in historical and classical style, this garden was modeled by senior architect Kishore Narasimha Rana.
Activities to Carry Out
Many individuals are drawn to the Garden of Dreams because of its relaxing atmosphere. The Garden of Dreams is a popular hangout for both residents and visitors in Kathmandu.
· Meeting Friends
Away from the rush and bustle of the city, the Garden of Dreams provides incredible experiences. It is a wonderful location for making new friends, sharing special moments with loved ones, and spending quality time.
· Enjoying Cosy Times
Furthermore, there is adequate room on its premises to sit or lie down for leisure. It is appropriate to come at any time of year. Meanwhile, in the summer, it might serve as a getaway from the humid surroundings.
· Picnics
You may take a break in the shade of pavilions and trees. Sunbathes and modest picnics are wonderful in the winter.
· Photography
This location is also perfect for taking images and films. The atmosphere and assistance you will receive from management will make your time more profitable. If you need modeling photographic space quickly, the Garden of Dreams offers it all. With the historic charm of the garden and pavilions, you will have a really great area for photography.
Restaurants and Cafes
Keeping in mind the convenience of those who come to visit and enjoy this garden, ‘Saffron Cafe’ has been operated inside the garden. Besides this, you can also enjoy delicious food at Gaia restaurant and coffee shop, Gorkha Palace & Restaurant, which is nearer to this garden. Even if you think the meal at Garden of Dreams is a little pricey, the tranquil sensation of delight you get there is genuinely priceless.
How to get there?
Garden of Dreams is located in Thamel’s Kaiser Mahal. It is located on the other side of the Fire and Ice Restaurant, near the intersection of Thamel and Kantipath. You may take a cab from the airport that will take you straight to Garden of Dreams, or you can take the bus that will take you to Ratnapark Bus Stop, from which the garden is a quick 20-minute walk away.
Thus, the Garden of Dreams is today regarded as one of the most appealing quiet oases, tourism monument that also includes a natural library where visitors may enjoy natural beauty combined with historical and architectural flavor. Even though this garden is highly popular between the young couples, elderly, and children along with their families can also spend qualitative time here.
-by: Kusum Kharel for Land Nepal
