In the heart of Kathmandu, where the bustling city streets converge and life unfolds in vibrant chaos, a sanctuary of serenity, a haven for seekers of peace and beauty—the Garden of Dreams. Tucked away behind its elegant neo-classical gates, this hidden gem offers respite from the clamour of Nepal’s capital, inviting visitors to step into a tranquil oasis where time slows and the senses awaken to the whispers of history and the fragrance of blooming flora.
Join us on a journey through this captivating haven, where the past and present coexist in harmony, architectural elegance meets nature’s beauty, and the chaos of urban life gives way to the soothing embrace of a secret garden. In this blog, we will unveil the allure of the Garden of Dreams, exploring its rich history, stunning architecture, and the peaceful haven it provides in the heart of bustling Kathmandu.
Garden of Dreams Location
The Garden of Dreams is located at Kaiser Mahal, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal. It is located in the heart of Kathmandu, within walking distance of many other tourist attractions.
Here are the directions to Garden of Dreams from Thamel:
- Start from Thamel.
- Head towards Durbar Marg.
- Turn left at the intersection with Kantipath.
- Walk straight for about 500 meters.
- Garden of Dreams will be on your right.
You can also take a taxi or microbus to Garden of Dreams. The nearest taxi stand is at Thamel. The nearest microbus stop is at Kantipath.
History and Origins of Garden of Dreams
The Garden of Dreams is a neo-classical garden in Kaiser Mahal Kathmandu, Nepal, built-in 1920. Designed by Kishore Narshingh, it consists of 6,895 square metres (74,220 sq ft) of gardens with three pavilions, an amphitheater, ponds, pergolas, and urns. From the mid-1960s, upon the death of its patron, Kaiser Sumsher Rana, it lay in neglect but was recently restored with the help of the Austrian government.
The Garden of Dreams was built by Kaiser Sumsher Rana, a field marshal in the Royal Nepalese Army and the Prime Minister of Nepal from 1908 to 1929. Rana was a wealthy and powerful man who wanted to build a garden that would reflect his status and taste. He hired the architect Kishore Narshingh to design the garden, and Narshingh created a beautiful and unique space that is still admired today.
The Garden of Dreams is located in Kaiser Mahal, the former residence of the Rana family. The garden is divided into several sections, each with its unique design. A colonnade surrounds the central courtyard, home to various flowers and plants. The garden also has several pavilions, each offering a different view of the surrounding area.
Architectural Splendor of Garden of Dreams
Here are some of the architectural splendor of Garden of Dreams:
- The central courtyard: This is the garden’s main attraction and is surrounded by a colonnade. The arcade is made of white marble and is decorated with intricate carvings. The courtyard has various flowers and plants, including roses, lilies, and orchids.
- The pavilions: The garden has three pavilions, each of which is designed in a different style. The first pavilion is in the neoclassical style and is made of white marble. The second pavilion is in the Mughal style and is made of red sandstone. The third pavilion is in the Tibetan style and is made of wood.
- The fountains: The garden has several fountains, each of which is decorated with different sculptures. The most famous fountain is the Fountain of Dreams. This fountain is located in the central courtyard and is surrounded by four lions.
- The amphitheater: The amphitheater is located in the western part of the garden and is used for performances and events. The amphitheater is made of brick and wood and is decorated with intricate carvings.
- The pergolas: The pergolas are covered walkways that are lined with plants. The pergolas are a great place to relax and enjoy the shade.
- The urns: The garden has several urns, each decorated with different designs. The urns are used to hold flowers and plants.
The Kaiser Cafe
Here is some information about Kaiser Cafe:
- Location: Kaiser Cafe is located in the Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal.
- History: Kaiser Cafe was opened in 2018 by friends who wanted to create a space where people could relax and enjoy the beauty of the Garden of Dreams.
- Menu: Kaiser Cafe serves various international dishes, including pizzas, pasta, burgers, and salads. They also have a selection of coffees, teas, and desserts.
- Price range: Kaiser Cafe is a mid-range restaurant, with prices ranging from NPR 200 to NPR 500.
- Atmosphere: Kaiser Cafe has a relaxed and casual atmosphere. The cafe is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Garden of Dreams.
- Popular dishes: Some of the most popular dishes at Kaiser Cafe include the pizza, the pasta, and the burgers. They also have a popular breakfast menu.
- Opening hours: Kaiser Cafe is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Garden of Dreams Events
There are many events held at Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal. Here are some of the most popular events:
- Weddings: The Garden of Dreams is a popular venue for weddings. The garden is beautiful and romantic, and it offers a variety of settings for weddings, from intimate ceremonies to large-scale events.
- Corporate events: The Garden of Dreams is also a popular venue for corporate events, such as conferences, meetings, and product launches. The garden is spacious and elegant, and it offers a variety of facilities for corporate events.
- Fashion shows: The Garden of Dreams is also popular for fashion shows. The garden is a beautiful backdrop for fashion shows, and it offers a variety of space for both the audience and the models.
- Concerts: The Garden of Dreams is also a popular venue for concerts. The garden is a great place to enjoy live music, and it offers a variety of space for the audience and the performers.
- Exhibitions: The Garden of Dreams is also a popular venue for exhibitions. The garden is great for showcasing art, photography, and other creative works.
The Garden of Dreams is a versatile space that can be used for various events. The Garden of Dreams is an excellent option for planning an event.
Garden of Dreams Entrance Fee and Opening Hours
Here are the entrance fees and opening hours of Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal:
- Entrance fee:
- Nepalese citizens: NPR 50
- Foreign nationals: NPR 150
- Children below 5 years: Free
- Opening hours:
- 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, every day.
The Garden of Dreams is closed on Mondays.
Best Times to Visit Garden of Dreams
The best time to visit Garden of Dreams depends on your preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
- Weather: The weather in Kathmandu is pleasant year-round. The summers are warm and humid, while the winters are cool and dry. If you are sensitive to the cold, you should avoid visiting during winter.
- Crowds: Garden of Dreams is a popular tourist destination so it can get crowded, especially during the weekends and holidays. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Events: There are many events held at Garden of Dreams throughout the year. If you are interested in attending an event, be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Here are some of the most popular times to visit Garden of Dreams:
- Early morning: The early morning is a great time to visit Garden of Dreams. The garden is quiet and peaceful, and you can enjoy the beauty of the flowers and plants without the crowds.
- Late afternoon: The late afternoon is also a good time to visit Garden of Dreams. The sun is not as harsh, and you can enjoy the beautiful sunset.
- Weekdays: The weekdays are less crowded than the weekends, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit on a weekday.
- Off-season: The off-season is the best time to visit Garden of Dreams if you want to avoid the crowds and get the best deals on accommodation and other services.
Nearby Attractions of Garden of Dreams
Here are some of the nearby attractions to Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal:
- Patan Durbar Square: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kathmandu’s most popular tourist destinations. The square has many temples and palaces, including the Krishna and Golden Gate.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Kathmandu. The square has many temples and palaces, including the Pashupatinath Temple and the Kumari Ghar.
- Swayambhunath Stupa: This is a Buddhist stupa that is located on a hilltop overlooking Kathmandu. The stupa is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Nepal.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located in the city of Bhaktapur. The square has many temples and palaces, including the Bhaktapur Durbar Palace.
- Narayanhiti Palace Museum: This museum is located in the former royal palace of Nepal. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Rana and Shah dynasties.
How to Reach Garden of Dreams
There are many ways to reach Garden of Dreams, Kathmandu, Nepal. Here are a few options:
- Taxi: Taxis are a convenient way to get around Kathmandu. You can find taxis easily at any major intersection. The fare from Thamel to Garden of Dreams is around NPR 200.
- Microbus: Microbuses are a cheaper option than taxis. They are also more crowded, but they can be a good way to get around if you are on a budget. The fare from Thamel to Garden of Dreams is around NPR 100.
- Public bus: Public buses are the cheapest way to get around Kathmandu. However, they can be crowded and slow. The fare from Thamel to Garden of Dreams is around NPR 20.
- Walking: If you are staying in Thamel, you can walk to Garden of Dreams. It is about a 20-minute walk.
Final Note:
The Garden of Dreams, with its neo-classical elegance and lush greenery, isn’t just a physical space; it’s a testament to the enduring human desire for beauty, serenity, and connection with the past. It’s a reminder that even in the most bustling of cities, one can find an oasis of calm, a place to reflect, rejuvenate, and appreciate life’s simple pleasures.
Whether you’ve visited this enchanting garden or aspire to do so one day, may its essence stay with you—a fragrant memory of respite and renewal. In the heart of Kathmandu, the Garden of Dreams invites us to slow down, to savor the beauty of the moment, and to find tranquility amidst the chaos. As you step beyond its neo-classical gates and into its embrace, may you, too, discover the magic within this hidden gem—a place where dreams are nurtured and the soul finds its sanctuary. Until we meet again, may your journeys be filled with moments of serenity, and may the Garden of Dreams continue to inspire wonder and appreciation for the beauty surrounding us. Namaste.