Things to Do Near Godawari, Lalitpur

Blog · Weekend Guide · Updated March 2026

A Local Weekend Guide to Godawari & Thecho

The Godawari area of Lalitpur district is one of the Kathmandu Valley's most rewarding weekend destinations. Located about 30 minutes south of the city center, this region offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary experiences. Whether you are a local looking for a Sunday escape or a tourist exploring beyond Patan Durbar Square, Godawari and the nearby town of Thecho have plenty to offer.

1. Godawari Botanical Garden

The National Botanical Garden at Godawari is the Kathmandu Valley's premier green space. Spread over 82 hectares at the foot of Phulchoki mountain, the garden houses hundreds of native and exotic plant species, a Japanese garden section, a rock garden, and seasonal flower displays. Entry fees are minimal, and the garden is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

The botanical garden is especially beautiful during spring (March–May) when rhododendrons, orchids, and seasonal flowers are in full bloom. For families with children, the open lawns provide perfect picnic spots. Photography enthusiasts will find endless subjects among the ferns, cacti, and water features.

2. Phulchoki Hill Hiking

For those seeking a more active outing, the trail to the top of Phulchoki hill starts near the Botanical Garden. At 2,782 meters, Phulchoki is the highest point surrounding the Kathmandu Valley and offers stunning 360-degree views of the Himalayan range on clear days. The hike takes about 3–4 hours round trip through cloud forest rich in bird life — over 265 species have been recorded here, making it one of Nepal's top birding destinations.

3. Explore Historic Thecho Village

The ancient Newari settlement of Thecho lies between Godawari and Lalitpur city. Walking through the village reveals centuries-old architecture, traditional wood-carved windows, stone water spouts (dhunge dhara), and local temples. Thecho is part of the Lalitpur municipality and retains much of its original character. The village comes alive during local festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and the Newari New Year celebrations.

4. Birdwatching at Taudaha Lake

Taudaha Lake, located a short detour from the Godawari road, is a natural lake surrounded by wetland habitat. It is renowned among birdwatchers for migratory species that visit during winter months (November–February). The lake is associated with local Newari legends about the serpent king Karkotak, and the surrounding area offers peaceful walks along paddy fields and marshland.

5. Dine at Peace Garden Restaurant, Thecho

No weekend trip to the Godawari area is complete without a great meal, and Peace Garden Restaurant in Thecho-12 is the perfect destination. Positioned on the route between Lalitpur city and Godawari, Peace Garden is ideally located for a lunch stop before or after visiting the botanical garden.

The restaurant features a spacious outdoor garden with landscaped greenery, making it feel like an extension of the natural spaces you have been exploring all day. The menu spans Nepali, Continental, Italian, and fast food — from momos and dal bhat to pizza, pasta, and burgers. And with free parking for all guests, it solves one of the biggest challenges of dining out in the valley.

6. Local Pottery and Crafts

The Thecho-Godawari corridor is home to local artisans who produce traditional pottery, metalwork, and woven textiles. Visiting a local workshop gives insight into Newari craftsmanship that has been passed down for generations. Some workshops welcome visitors and offer demonstrations of their traditional techniques.

Getting There

From Kathmandu, the most convenient route is to drive south through Lagankhel (Patan) towards Godawari. The entire journey takes about 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. Local microbuses also run frequently from Lagankhel bus park to Thecho and Godawari. If you are driving, note that Peace Garden Restaurant offers free parking.

Suggested Weekend Itinerary

1. 9:00 AM — Drive from Kathmandu to Godawari Botanical Garden (30 min)
2. 9:30 AM — Explore the Botanical Garden (1.5–2 hours)
3. 11:30 AM — Optional Phulchoki trail hike or Taudaha Lake visit
4. 12:30 PM — Lunch at Peace Garden Restaurant, Thecho
5. 2:00 PM — Walk through Thecho village, visit local temples
6. 3:30 PM — Return to Kathmandu via Lagankhel