Garden of Dreams, also known as “the Garden of Six Seasons,” is a neo-classical garden situated at the heart of the city in Kesar Mahal, Kathmandu. Within walking distance from the hustle and bustle of the boisterous Thamel, Garden of Dreams lies peacefully amid thick walls that deafen any sound coming from the busy streets. The Garden's design, with paved perimeter paths, pavilions, trellises, and numerous planting spaces, is common with the formal European-style gardens.

Garden of dreams

History

Garden of Dreams was built in the early 1920s and created by late Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Rana. It was one of the most sophisticated private gardens of its time and even now. Inspired by the Edwardian style, Garden of Dreams was designed by Kishore Narsingh, who also constructed Singha Durbar. Each of the six pavilions is dedicated to the six seasons experienced in Nepal, and hence, the name “Garden of Six Seasons” was initially given to it.

Paved ways for visitors to explore the garden 

However, the most illustrious and sophisticated garden lost its essence after the death of Kaiser Shumsher Rana. For decades, it was untouched and neglected. With the support and aid from the Austrian government, restoration of the garden took place between 2000 and 2007.

Serene and Peaceful Sanctuary

The spot is extraordinarily tranquil and quiet regardless of being on perhaps the busiest road in Kathmandu - Thamel. When I initially visited Garden of Dreams, I just knew the name of the spot. Obscure and uncertain about what’s in store, I, along with my companions incredulously advanced towards the passageway of the garden. The first entryway with marble engraving and a little fountain welcomes every visitor with harmony and quietness. 

Hidden fountain in Garden of Dreams

Fountains manicured lawns, and other concealed gardens are among some of subtleties that the garden envelops. Among the six unique structures once built to connote the six Nepali seasons, just three remain today. One after the other, we strolled around the garden moving from structures to yards to wellsprings. One of the most loved activities here is to find an agreeable spot to lie down and enjoy the excellence of the garden without the boisterous unsettling influence of roads or individuals. Garden of Dreams is an ideal place for young people and couples to hang out. There is also an amphitheater to the left of the ticket counter.

Entry fee to garden of Dreams: NRs 180 for nationals and NRs 400 for outsiders.

Things to Do

(1) Relax

Garden of Dreams is the place to escape the hustle and bustle of Kathmandu and its crazy streets. So, grab a book that you like to read and a mat and relax on the lawn.

(2) Have a Cup of Coffee at Kaiser Café

Kaiser Café is run by the Dwarika Hotel in the garden premises. End your relaxing day with a hot cup of coffee in Kaiser Café. 

Kaiser Café

(3) Explore the Photo Gallery

The Garden of Dreams also houses paintings that show the history of the garden: the original garden before the renovation, the bricks used, and the pavilions.

Nepal tour packages