Sunday, October 25, 2020

Strolling in the Garden of Dreams


A Garden in the city balances life and achieves a healthier lifestyle. It's a breath of fresher air amidst the toxicity.


With an urban garden in the city center, I was fortunate to have an afternoon stroll in the fully restored Garden of Dreams in Kathmandu, Nepal, in August 2013. It reopened to the public six years after several decades of closure.

While Kathmandu's lifestyle may not be as lavish as that of big cosmopolitan cities, it is steeped in a unique and fascinating culture, making it a destination that piques curiosity and invites exploration. 


The entire city of Kathmandu blends cultural heritage with a modern society due to its preserved structures, such as monuments and temples, and the restoration of public places like the Garden of Dreams and other modern infrastructures.

Stepping into the walled garden, I was immediately enveloped in a serene atmosphere, a stark contrast to the bustling city just outside. It was a mere 5 minutes from my hotel, a perfect spot for a peaceful respite, where one can truly unwind and find inner peace.

The Walled Urban Garden

One of the most striking aspects of the garden is its European-style architecture, a feature that became more pronounced after its restoration with the assistance of the Austrian Government. The garden boasts six pavilions, each representing a different season of Nepal, earning it the moniker, the "Garden of the Six Seasons." 

The garden has a veranda, fountains, and a pergola, giving it a European vibe. Also, the Amphitheater is where visitors can sit or lie down to chat or read a book. Such a relaxing scene.

The Amphitheater

European-inspired pergola

The garden's lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and well-maintained shrubs and trees are testaments to the dedication of its caretakers. Its pristine condition and rejuvenating ambiance are truly inspiring.

I appreciate art, so I spent time at the gallery and conversed with the locals. That was a meaningful encounter as I learned more about their culture. 

Café by the garden

It was a delightful afternoon stroll at the Garden of Dreams, and before leaving, I had a cup of cappuccino as I reflected on and planned my next journey around Kathmandu.

The Garden of Dreams is a testament to the need for green spaces in urban areas. Its sophisticated design and the beauty it exudes after restoration inspire more cities to adopt similar gardens, offering a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Garden of Dreams. The Garden of the Six Seasons. A garden for the soul.

©️ 2020 Del Cusay

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