Dream of a Garden

Namaste!
In the centre of Kathmandu city, tucked away from the roar and hooting of the traffic, behind a high brick wall, is a small oasis of green tranquility.  This beautiful place is called the 'Garden of Dreams'.

The garden was built by Field Marshal Kaiser Shamser next to his palace in the 1920s. He had visited England and was impressed by the Edwardian gardens and estates that he saw, so created his own private garden in that style in Kathmandu. It is said that he financed it with money he won from his father, who was then the Prime Minister, in a game of cowrie shells.

This garden became completely neglected after his death; the vegetation totally overgrown and many of the structures and buildings dilapidated and unsafe. A restoration project financed from Austria spent 6 years reconstructing the parts that had not been completely destroyed, rebuilding and replanting.  About a third of the original garden now remains, with only three out of the six pavilions that adorned it. When built, each of the six pavilions was named after and dedicated to one of the Nepali seasons.

A visitor there can stroll through many 'garden rooms' and secluded areas, one leading into the next, each with a different vista.  There are beautiful statues, fountains, ponds and running water, with landscaped tiers and small walls changing the ground level.

Carefully chosen plants, shrubs and trees compliment the hard landscaping, giving a serene and calm atmosphere to this delightful garden. It is a beautiful place to sit, contemplate and relax; to get away from the noise and clamour of the city.

In one of the pavilions is an exhibition of photographs showing the original garden, along with before and after scenes of the reconstruction.  Of course the garden also has a cafe for refreshments.






It is wonderful green retreat in the midst of a busy city and many people use it as a peaceful place to relax with friends, read a book, or even bring a picnic.

Pheri bheTaulaa!