Things To Do
in Godāwari̇̄
Godāwarī, Nepal sits on the southern edge of the Kathmandu Valley, a leafy town known for its pleasant climate and temple-filled hillside streets. It is home to the renowned Godavari Botanical Garden and easy access to forested trails that invite peaceful exploration. Visitors use it as a base for day trips to Kathmandu's sights and nearby hills like Phulchowki and Champa Devi.
The area offers a lush, green landscape with monsoon rains and cool evenings that keep the air fresh year-round.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and take a scenic drive to Godāwari̇̄, known for its serene beauty and rich biodiversity. Settle into a comfortable lodge or hotel and enjoy a traditional Nepali breakfast. Take a leisurely stroll around your accommodation to soak in the tranquil environment.
After lunch, visit the Godavari Botanical Garden, where you can explore a wide variety of flora and appreciate the beautiful landscape. Enjoy the serene environment, taking photographs and perhaps relaxing by the small lakes within the garden. Attend a guided tour to learn more about the rare plants and flowers native to this region.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful evening walk along the nearby trails. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a local restaurant or lodge that serves authentic Nepali cuisine. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers or locals, setting the tone for a memorable trip.
Start your day with a refreshing hike to the stunning Phulchoki Hill, the highest hill around the Kathmandu Valley. The morning air is invigorating, and the trail is lined with vibrant flowers, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Once you reach the top, be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains and the valley below.
After descending, have lunch at a local eatery, trying specialty dishes like 'dal bhat' or 'momo'. Post-lunch, explore the ancient Godāwari̇̄ temple complex, immersing yourself in the spirituality and history of the site. Interact with local worshippers and admire the intricate craftsmanship of the temple architecture.
Return to your accommodation for a quick rest before heading out for a sunset view at the nearby viewpoints. Enjoy the breathtaking colors of the twilight sky blending with the hills of Godāwari̇̄. Conclude your day with a casual dinner at a café, sampling local snacks and sharing stories with fellow adventurers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (one night) | $15-40 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $1-5 |
| 🪙Entrance to attractions | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, scenic setting near Kathmandu
- Good value for money with accessible nature
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options in Godāwarī
- Public transport connectivity is variable to Kathmandu and surrounding areas
- "Namaste" - Hello / Greetings
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Kripya" - Please
- "Maile bujheina" - I don’t understand
- "Yo kasto chha?" - How is this?
Places to Visit in Godāwari̇̄
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm water reflections and a bamboo-lined path; early morning light is ideal for tranquil nature shots.
Panoramic terrace overlooking the Kathmandu Valley; golden hour light is perfect for wide landscape photography.
Riverside shots with terraced fields and village life; capture women weaving and farmers at work.
Golden sunset on the temple's silhouette with the hills as a backdrop.
Food in Godāwari̇̄
Godāwari̇̄ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple meal of steamed rice with lentil soup and a variety of vegetable curries; in many eateries it’s served all day.
Must-Try!
Steamed dumplings filled with spiced potatoes or vegetables; widely available at street stalls and restaurants.
Crispy ring-shaped rice bread often paired with cheap curry or yogurt.
A hearty curry of potatoes with bamboo shoot and fermented bamboo—popular in hill towns.
Fermented leafy greens soup, a traditional dish rich in flavor and probiotic goodness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market with fresh produce, dairy, spices, and street snack stalls; great for trying momos and roasted corn.
Anywhere along access routes where vendors serve momos, chatpate, fried processed snacks, and sweet treats; best tried in late afternoon.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, and ask permission before entering a shrine; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Greet with Namaste; use both hands to give/receive items and avoid touching heads or shoulders.
Dress modestly in hill towns; avoid public displays of affection in rural areas; accept that tipping culture varies.
Safety
Tipping in Godāwari̇̄
Ensure a smooth experience
In casual eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% as a tip is appreciated if service is good. Many places in Godāwarī accept cash NPR; larger restaurants and lodges may take cards. Card payments are common at hotels and tourist-oriented establishments; ATMs are widely available in Kathmandu Valley. Carry small denominations for street vendors and rural shopkeepers who may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June to August brings warm days and heavy monsoon rains; carry light rain gear, waterproof footwear, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
September to November offers clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and excellent visibility for distant mountain views; ideal for trekking.
December to February brings cool mornings and crisp air; nights can be chilly; pack warm layers and a hat.
March to May brings blooming trees and comfortable temperatures; perfect for outdoor activities and photography.
Godāwari̇̄ at Night
Hiking in Godāwari̇̄
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike with forest trails and panoramic valley views; expect birds and a moderate climb.
A longer excursion reachable by road and cable car; offers sweeping Kathmandu basin views.
Lush green trails and picnic spots; great for a relaxed day hike.
Airports
How to reach Godāwari̇̄ by plane.
Kathmandu's international gateway; about 20-40 km from Godawari by road depending on route; transfers to Godawari take roughly 1–2 hours by car.
Procedure for domestic flight connections; not directly near Godāwarī but serves as alternative gateway if visiting western Nepal; travel by road from Pokhara to Kathmandu valley.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority in the region with traditions and family-oriented culture.
Influenced by local monasteries and temples; peaceful and respectful demeanor.
A growing presence from Europe and Asia, often staying in guesthouses near the botanical garden and hill views.
Rural livelihoods and crafts—pottery, weaving, and fresh-market trading.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely enjoyed by locals and visitors; street games and organized leagues are common in parks and school grounds.
A popular pastime in towns and schools; informal matches happen in open fields and courtyards.
Common in guesthouses and community centers with affordable courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Godāwari̇̄.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available. Look for dal bhat tarkari (lentils and vegetables), vegetable curries, and paneer-based dishes; explicitly request no meat or fish if needed.