At the edge of Thamel on Tridevi Sadak, the Garden of Dreams is a restored neoclassical garden built in the 1920s for Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Rana. Its lawns, ponds, fountains, pavilions and pergolas offer a quiet change of pace from central Kathmandu. Walk the paved paths, look for the garden’s architectural details, or settle on the grass with a book and a coffee from the Kaiser Café. It is a compact stop for a calm break between city sights.
A garden built for Kaiser Shumsher
The Garden of Dreams was created in the early 1920s as a private garden for Field Marshal Kaiser Shumsher Rana. Architect Kishore Narshingh designed it in an Edwardian style, with European garden influences. It was also known as the Garden of Six Seasons, or Swapna Bageecha.
The layout brings together lawns, ponds, fountains, pavilions, pergolas and paved paths. Details include urns, birdhouses, garden furniture and a Chinese Moon Gate. A marble inscription from Omar Khayyam’s Rubaiyat is another detail to look for as you walk.
Restoration and the garden today
After Kaiser Shumsher’s death in 1964, the garden fell into neglect. It was restored between 2000 and 2007 with financial help from the Austrian government. Today, the public garden sits within the Kaiser Mahal complex, close to Thamel and Tridevi Sadak.
The grounds are a place to slow down in central Kathmandu. You can follow the paths, sit on a bench or relax on the lawn with a mat. The Kaiser Café serves food and drinks inside the garden, so a visit can include a coffee break as well as a walk.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Garden of Dreams?
It is on Tridevi Sadak, at the edge of Thamel in central Kathmandu.
What is the Garden of Dreams known for?
This restored 1920s garden has neoclassical pavilions, fountains, ponds, lawns, pergolas and paved paths. It is also called the Garden of Six Seasons and Swapna Bageecha.
How long should you spend at the Garden of Dreams?
Allow about 1 to 2 hours for a walk and a break on the lawn or at the Kaiser Café.
Is there a café in the Garden of Dreams?
Yes. The Kaiser Café serves food and drinks inside the garden.
