The National Botanical Garden, located in Nepal’s Godawari municipality, is a popular place for both tourists and locals. It spans 82 hectares and includes 40 hectares of themed gardens. Managed by the Department of Plant Resources, Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development of Nepal, the garden is home to many types of plants, trees, shrubs, and herbs, including orchids. It also has a medicinal garden and a butterfly garden. A naturally found, evergreen forest with Schima-Castanospsis-Alnus as the main tree species surrounds it.
The garden’s various areas are connected by a variety of streams, ponds, and pathways. This garden is also home to many different bird species, including the endangered Spiny Babbler, which is only found in Nepal. It was developed in an environmentally friendly way with the intention of protecting the surrounding area.
The Garden is the perfect tourist attraction in the city and also a getaway from the hustle and bustle of a crowded city. It is a popular place for locals to relax, picnic, and enjoy the scenery with some quality time with friends and family to get some fresh air, and is also a popular spot for movie/video shoots and other events. It is the ideal location to exercise/work out and enjoys nature with friends and family. One can get here easily by Public or in their private vehicle, and you can easily park your vehicles here.
Major Highlights of Godawari
- Themed Gardens: With 40 hectares dedicated to themed gardens, visitors can explore a variety of beautifully designed and curated gardens. Each themed garden showcases different plant species and offers a unique experience.
- Indigenous and Exotic Plants: The garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous and exotic plants, trees, shrubs, and herbs. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant colors, unique shapes, and fragrant aromas of these plant species.
- Orchid Species: Orchid lovers will be delighted to discover a collection of orchid species within the National Botanical Garden. These delicate and exquisite flowers display a remarkable array of shapes, colors, and patterns.
- Medicinal Garden: A dedicated medicinal garden provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about various medicinal plants and their traditional uses. This educational experience offers insights into the rich herbal heritage of Nepal.
- Butterfly Garden: The butterfly garden is a captivating section of the garden where visitors can witness the graceful fluttering of colorful butterflies. It provides a serene and enchanting environment for nature enthusiasts.
- Bird Species: The garden is a haven for birdwatchers as it hosts various bird species. Of particular significance is the presence of the endangered Spiny Babbler, a bird species found only in Nepal. Spotting these rare birds is a unique and rewarding experience.
How to get there
- Public Transportation: You can take public transportation, such as buses or taxis, to reach the National Botanical Garden. In Kathmandu, you can find buses or microbuses that travel to the Godawari municipality. Ask for the nearest stop to the garden and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the entrance.
- Private Vehicle: If you have access to a private vehicle, you can drive to the National Botanical Garden. The garden has parking facilities where you can safely park your vehicle while you explore the garden.
Visiting the National Botanical Garden is an ideal way to enjoy a tranquil and eye-pleasing atmosphere. During spring and autumn, the garden is alive with a variety of colorful plants and flowers. With small ponds dotted around, it makes for a peaceful and serene environment. To enter the garden, a nominal fee of Rs. 50/- is charged for local visitors.
Image source: Google Photos
