Things To Do
in Godāwari̇̄

Godāwari̇̄, Nepal, is a serene town located on the outskirts of Kathmandu Valley, known for its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere. The area is famous for the Godawari Botanical Garden, which showcases a diverse range of flora and fauna from the region. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty, explore the local temples, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Newar community.

Godāwari̇̄ is an ideal getaway for those seeking peace and nature while being close to the bustling capital.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Godawari Botanical Garden, where you can stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Phulchowki Hill, where you can hike to the summit for panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley and the majestic Himalayas.

evening
:

Relax at a local café, enjoying a traditional Nepali meal while watching the sunset over the hills.

day 2
Day 2: Temples and Local Life
morning
:

Visit the ancient Godawari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga, and participate in the morning rituals.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs while interacting with the friendly locals.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a cultural performance at a local community center, showcasing traditional Newar music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$3
Coffee$1.50
🚕Taxi Ride (within town)$2
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5
🌄Entrance to Botanical Garden$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions.
  • Less crowded compared to Kathmandu.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कसरी हुनुहुन्छ?" - How are you?
  • "मलाई माया छ" - I love you
  • "सञ्चै छ?" - Is everything well?

Places to Visit in Godāwari̇̄

Visit one of these nice places.

Godawari Botanical Garden

Capture the stunning landscapes and diverse plant species in this expansive garden.

Phulchowki Hill

A breathtaking viewpoint perfect for panoramic shots of the entire Kathmandu Valley and surrounding mountains.

Godawari Temple

The intricate architecture and vibrant rituals at this temple provide excellent photographic opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Godāwari̇̄

Godāwari̇̄ offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional and modern flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Godāwari̇̄ Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dal Bhat

A traditional meal consisting of lentil soup served with rice and a variety of side dishes.

Must-Try!

Momo

Nepali dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Chatamari

A rice flour crepe topped with meat, eggs, or vegetables, often referred to as 'Nepali pizza'.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Godawari Local Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Godāwari̇̄ experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, summer is warm with monsoon rains, and winter can be cold, especially at night. The average temperature ranges from 10°C in winter to 30°C in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; greet them first and use polite language.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples and local homes, dress modestly to respect cultural norms.

Remove Shoes

It is customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Godāwari̇̄ is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas. Be cautious of your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Emergency services are available, but it's wise to have a basic understanding of local health facilities.

Tipping in Godāwari̇̄

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, and some places may accept mobile payments; ensure to have Nepali Rupees on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (March to May)

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August)

Expect warm temperatures with occasional rainfall; it's the perfect time for lush greenery but be prepared for humidity.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn offers clear skies and cooler temperatures, making it the best season for hiking and photography.

Winter (December to February)

Winter can be chilly, especially in the evenings; however, the clear skies provide stunning views of the mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Godāwari̇̄ at Night

Godāwari̇̄ has a laid-back nightlife scene compared to Kathmandu. While there are a few local bars and cafes offering live music and cultural programs, most nightlife activities wind down early. However, the atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great place for casual socializing or enjoying quiet evenings with friends.

Hiking in Godāwari̇̄

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Phulchowki Trail

This popular trail leads to the highest hill surrounding the Kathmandu Valley, offering stunning views and diverse flora and fauna.

Champadevi Hike

A moderately difficult hike that provides panoramic views of the valley and surrounding mountains, ideal for adventurous hikers.

Airports

How to reach Godāwari̇̄ by plane.

Tribhuvan International Airport

The nearest international airport is located in Kathmandu, about 15 km from Godāwari̇̄, offering connections to various global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Godāwari̇̄ is relatively walkable, especially around the central areas and the Botanical Garden. The town is small, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some trails may be steep, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Newars

The Newar community is the indigenous population known for its rich cultural traditions, festivals, and culinary specialties.

Brahmins

Another significant demographic group in the region, Brahmins are known for their educational contributions and involvement in local governance.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely played and followed in Godāwari̇̄, with local matches often held in community fields.

Cricket

Cricket enjoys immense popularity, with many local teams and informal matches played in public parks.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Godāwari̇̄ is generally light compared to Kathmandu. Public transportation options include microbuses and taxis, but many locals prefer walking or biking. Roads are mostly narrow and can be uneven, so caution is advised while navigating.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Godāwari̇̄.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check for hidden ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; it's best to communicate dietary needs clearly to restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Godāwari̇̄ is limited, with a few local clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to Kathmandu, which has better-equipped hospitals. Travelers should carry necessary medications and consider travel insurance.

Discover Nepal

Read more in our Nepal 2025 Travel Guide.

Nepal Travel Guide