Exploring the Green Oasis of Kathmandu: Private Tour of Godawari Botanical Garden Including Lunch

If you’re visiting Kathmandu and craving a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, a private day trip to the Godawari Botanical Garden offers exactly that—along with a chance to learn about Nepal’s diverse plant life. For $120 per person, this five-hour experience includes hotel pickup, luxury transportation, a guided walk through lush landscapes, and a delicious Nepali lunch.
What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized attention you receive—your own guide ensures you don’t miss the details—and the relaxed pace, perfect for families, older travelers, or anyone wanting a slow, scenic day outside the city. We also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes the whole experience hassle-free and more enjoyable.
One possible consideration is the price point, which is higher than some group tours, but this is offset by the private nature of the experience—more tailored and less rushed. If you value a quieter, more intimate day with knowledgeable guides, this could be just the right trip. It’s especially suited for those interested in flora, photography, or simply seeking a peaceful nature break amid a busy Kathmandu itinerary.
This tour is ideal for garden lovers, families, seniors, and nature enthusiasts who want to learn about Himalayan and Nepali plants in an unhurried environment, with plenty of opportunities for photos and educational insights.
Key Points

- Private, personalized tour ensures tailored attention and a relaxed experience
- Convenient hotel transfers make logistics simple and stress-free
- Lush, well-maintained gardens showcase diverse plant species from Nepal and beyond
- Informed guides enhance understanding and engagement throughout the walk
- Lunch included at a recommended Nepali restaurant adds local flavor to your day
- Flexible for all ages—suitable for families, older travelers, and naturalists
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Kathmandu
A Closer Look at the Experience
The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transport
We start our day at 10:30 AM with hotel pickup in Kathmandu, a smooth process thanks to the included transportation. Traveling in a luxury vehicle means you’re comfortable and can relax as the 1-hour drive takes you from the city’s chaos to the peaceful outskirts of the Kathmandu Valley. The quiet drive helps set the tone for a day dedicated to nature and tranquility.
First Stop: Godawari Botanical Garden
Arriving around 11:30 AM, we’re greeted by a well-kept oasis of greenery. Spanning a significant area, the garden features a wide variety of plants—everything from native Himalayan flora to exotic species. Your guide, whose knowledge we found genuinely impressive, starts by explaining the significance of certain plants, making the walk both educational and visually stimulating.
The scenic views are a highlight—vivid flowers, towering trees, and peaceful walking paths make for excellent photo opportunities. The garden is also designed with informative markers, which enrich your understanding of the flora and their importance in Nepalese life and culture. For those into photography, the lush environment offers plenty of beautiful shots.
Learning and Exploring
Our guide made the experience engaging, sharing stories about specific plants and their uses. The personalized attention made a noticeable difference—there was time to ask questions and get detailed answers. This is a clear advantage over larger group tours, especially for those who want an educational experience that’s tailored to their interests.
While in Kathmandu, here are other experiences we've covered
- Dhulikhel to Namobuddha Day Hike with Lunch Private/Group
- Bhaktapur and Panauti Day Trip with Lunch – Private/Group
- Kathmandu: Dhulikhel Zipline Adventure with Pickup & Lunch
- Kathmandu: Shivapuri Day Hike with Lunch
- Chandragiri : Majestic Hilltop & Cable Car Views with Lunch
- Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise View and Day Hike with Lunch
Lunch: A Taste of Nepal
At around 1:30 PM, we headed to the garden’s cafeteria for a traditional Nepali lunch. The meal was described as “terrific” by previous guests, with fresh, local flavors. One reviewer specifically enjoyed Momo soup, which suggests the food is hearty and authentic. The included lunch offers good value, especially considering it’s part of a day that combines sightseeing and learning.
Afternoon Stroll and Optional Stops
Post-lunch, the exploration continues at a more leisurely pace. The garden’s peaceful setting encourages wandering at your own pace, and the guide is available for questions or to point out interesting plant specimens. Some guests, as noted in reviews, appreciated stops at nearby attractions like Tibetan Buddhist monasteries or beer gardens, though these are not officially part of the tour.
Ending the Day
By around 3:30 PM, we wrap up and head back to Kathmandu, feeling relaxed and inspired by the surroundings. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it easy to plan your next activity or return to your hotel.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The $120 price includes all fees and taxes, private guide, luxury transportation, and a wholesome Nepali lunch—making it a hassle-free, all-in-one experience. For travelers who want more than just a walking tour, the personalized guide enhances your understanding of Nepalese plants and culture, giving you insights you wouldn’t get on a group or self-guided visit.
The private aspect ensures you’re not rushed or crowded, which is particularly appealing for travelers who prefer a quiet, contemplative environment. The well-maintained gardens and informative markers add educational value, transforming what could be a simple walk into a genuinely enriching experience.
The tour’s main strength lies in its balance of nature, culture, and comfort—offering a genuine connection to Nepal’s botanical diversity without straying too far from Kathmandu’s vibrant streets.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys gardens, botany, or photography, this trip will delight you. Families with children over 6 will find it manageable and educational, while older travelers will appreciate the easy pace and comfortable transport. It’s also great for those wanting a more personalized experience with knowledgeable guides who can cater to your curiosity.
This tour appeals less if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more active, adventure-style outing. But for those seeking a relaxed, informative, and culturally immersive day in nature, it hits the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, including pickup, travel, exploration, and lunch.
Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included and can be arranged from your Kathmandu hotel—just provide your hotel name when booking.
What should I wear?
Wear hiking shoes for comfort, and bring a light jacket, sunglasses, and your camera to capture the scenic views.
Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 6 and above are welcome, making it suitable for families.
What’s included in the price?
The tour fee covers transportation, private guide, all entrance fees, and lunch. Beverages, personal expenses, and tips are not included.
Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private tour, so only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
A private tour to Godawari Botanical Garden offers an authentic, peaceful escape into Nepal’s plant diversity, paired with expert guidance and local cuisine. Perfect for those who want a flexible, educational day out that blends nature with culture, all in a relaxed setting.
This experience is especially valuable for nature lovers, families, and older travelers who appreciate a thoughtful pace and personalized attention. The inclusion of lunch and hotel transfers makes it a practical choice for those seeking comfort and convenience alongside meaningful sightseeing.
If you’re looking to step away from Kathmandu’s busy streets and into a world of vibrant flora, this tour could be just what you need to refresh your spirits and deepen your understanding of Nepal’s natural treasures.
More Private Tours in Kathmandu
- Kathmandu: 7 Day Ghorepani Poonhill & Ghandruk Private Trek
- Private Full-Day Hiking Tour in Nagarkot
- Traverse for a Private Epic Journey to Langtang
- Kathmandu: Private City Guided Tour
- Private Nagarkot & Bhaktapur Tour: A Day of Views and Culture
- Kathmandu: Nagarkot Sunrise Tour Private or Group with Lunch
More Tours in Kathmandu
More Tour Reviews in Kathmandu
More Kathmandu experiences we've covered
- Mount Everest Scenic Flight 50 Minutes
- Namobuddha Day Excursion
- Kathmandu: 7 Day Ghorepani Poonhill & Ghandruk Private Trek
- 3 days 2 nights Bandipur homestay tour
- Private Full-Day Hiking Tour in Nagarkot
- Bhaktapur, Kathmandu Patan culture Heritage sightseeing tour
- Short Day Trip Hiking with 1 Hour Spa Massage in Kathmandu
- 11-Day Annapurna Base Camp Trek
- Day Hiking from Kathmandu including Nagarkot Sunrise View
- Annapurna Base Camp Trek 10 Days
- Halfday Tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swoyambhunath Stupa
- “Pashupatinath Divine Journey”
