Introduction
Kathmandu, a busy city known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant urban life, also offers some hidden pockets of tranquility perfect for a relaxing picnic. Whether you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle or spend a peaceful day with family and friends, Kathmandu has a variety of serene spots that combine natural beauty with accessibility.
From lush green parks to scenic riversides and quiet hilltops, the valley offers something for every kind of picnic lover. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best picnic spots in and around Kathmandu Valley, where you can unwind and spend quality time with nature without venturing too far from the city.
National Botanical Garden (Godawari, Lalitpur)
Godawari Botanical Garden is located in the Godawari Municipality in Lalitpur District. It is 8 km from the ring road and will take roughly 30 minutes to reach. This place is also the base for the famous Phulchowki hill (2765m). It is primarily known for its vibrant collection of orchids, ferns, and colorful blooms that change with the season.
The garden is an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, bird watching, and educational tours. Its tranquil ambiance and scenic surroundings make it ideal for picnics. The Godawari area also serves as a gateway for hikes to Phulchowki, the highest hill in the Kathmandu Valley, where trekkers enjoy a panoramic view of the distant Himalayan Ranges.
This garden is also significant to botanists and researchers, as it has a small research center and a greenhouse contributing to plant efforts. There are usually more crowds in this place during holidays. Overall, this is a fantastic place for picnics and to enjoy the natural beauty around this area.
Manjushree Park, Chobar
Manjushree Park is located in Chobhar Gorge of Kirtipur municipality, which lies in the southern part of Kathmandu Valley. Chobhar Gorge, where the Manjushree Cave is located, is related to interesting legends about the origin of Kathmandu Valley. It is 7 kilometers from central Kathmandu, and if there are no traffic jams in the valley, a one-hour drive is enough to reach it. At the base of the gorge flows the Bagmati River.
This is another ideal place for a picnic, with many visitors coming weekly. The park committee provides free drinking water and water for cooking. There are also toilet facilities in the park’s area. However, this is a fairly expensive park, and it may cost you npr 2000-3000 to book the picnic spot in advance. This is a relatively less crowded place in comparison to other picnic spots. You can rejoice yourself with the greenery and crisp air around this place.
Nagarkot, Bhaktapur
Probably the most famous place on this list, Nagarkot, has been a tourist favorite for a long time. Its panoramic views are simply second to none. Nagarkot is completely different from other places on this list, as it has around 10 different picnic spots to choose from. Apart from this, other business owners who have a space in their personal property allow people to use their empty space and collect money. It is at a distance of 22 kilometers from central Kathmandu and takes about an hour by car to reach.
There is plenty of parking space around this area. Visitors can also enjoy free drinking water around the various picnic spots in the area. Paying NPR 3000-5000 will get you your picnic spot in Nagarkot. You can enjoy the serene landscapes around this place and rejoice if you feel like you can stay overnight in Nagarkot, which has some of the best hotels at an affordable price.
Tribhuvan Park, Thankot
One of the biggest picnic spots on our list has more than 15 different individual picnic spots. Located six kilometers from Kalanki, it can be reached in about 15 minutes by car. It is the best place to enjoy the serene environment and beauty of greenery. It lies in the shade of the Chandragiri Hills. It is the first most developed picnic and tourism spot for domestic tourists.
The park is equipped with playgrounds for children and ample space for picnics, making it ideal for family outings. A small lake within the park adds to its scenic charm, providing a serene setting for a relaxing walk alongside nature. The park also holds historical significance, as it was developed to honor the late king Tribhuvan Bir Bikram Shah.
Since the ’90s, this park has been a popular destination for picnics. It has ample space for visitors, and even on busier days, there is still room for more people.
Kakani, Nuwakot
Another famous spot is Kakani, located in the Nuwakot district. This place is famous for its beautiful green surroundings. This picnic spot around Kathmandu is one of the best places for a day outing with family. Nature lovers will be fascinated by the beautiful oaks and rhododendron forests.
Kakani is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking. The hike from Kakani to Shivapuri is a favorite among nature enthusiasts. The area also has historical significance due to the presence of the Thai Memorial Park, built to commemorate the victims of a 1992 Thai Airways plane crash near the Village. Kakani’s cool climate, especially during the summer, makes it a refreshing retreat for those looking to escape the heat.
Overall, Kakani is a must-visit for nature lovers, offering spectacular views, peaceful hiking trails, spectacular views, and a quiet atmosphere, making it one of the top destinations near the Kathmandu Valley.
To Conclude…
There are many other spots for picnics in and around Kathmandu that you can explore. These places prove to be a great option if you want to spend a day outdoors to escape the hustle and bustle of this growing metropolis.
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