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Godāwari̇̄, Nepal

Region: Bagmati

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Geographic Coordinates: 28.910000, 80.590000

Climate: Data not available.

Population: 78018

Language: Nepali

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Godāwari̇̄ is a picturesque village located in the Lalitpur District of Nepal. Situated about 14 kilometers southeast of Kathmandu, It is renowned for its natural beauty, Serene environment, And religious significance. Nestled amidst the foothills of the Himalayas, Godāwari̇̄ offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. The village is most famous for its stunning Botanical Garden – Godāwari̇̄ Phulchowki. Spread across an area of 82 hectares, This garden boasts an extensive collection of diverse flora and fauna.

With over 500 species of plants and flowers, Including rare orchids and rhododendrons, It serves as a paradise for nature enthusiasts and botanists alike. The garden also houses various bird species making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Apart from its natural beauty, Godāwari̇̄ holds immense religious importance to Hindus. The sacred site of Kailashnath Mahadev Temple stands tall on a hilltop overlooking the village. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, This temple is home to one of the largest statues of Lord Shiva in Asia – standing at an impressive height of 144 feet (44 meters).

Devotees flock here during festivals like Maha Shivaratri to offer prayers and seek blessings. Another significant attraction in Godāwari̇̄ is The Royal Botanical Garden Retreat Center which was once used as a retreat by Nepal’s royal family members. This elegant palace surrounded by lush green gardens now serves as a venue for weddings or conferences while providing visitors with breathtaking views.

For those seeking adventure or outdoor activities, There are several hiking trails that lead to nearby hills such as Phulchowki Hill or Chapakharka Hill offering panoramic views over Kathmandu Valley and surrounding mountains like Langtang range, Ganesh Himal, And even glimpses of Everest on a clear day. Godāwari̇̄ also hosts an annual flower exhibition during spring when the gardens are in full bloom. This event attracts visitors from all over Nepal who come to witness the vibrant colors and exquisite arrangements of flowers.

Godāwari̇̄ is a hidden gem in Nepal that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, Religious significance, And recreational activities. Whether you are a nature lover looking to explore diverse flora and fauna or seeking spiritual solace amidst picturesque surroundings, Godāwari̇̄ is sure to captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.

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1. Godawari Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.
2. Phulchowki Hill: Located near Godawari, this hill offers breathtaking views of the Kathmandu Valley and is a popular hiking destination.
3. Kailashnath Mahadev Statue: Standing at 143 feet tall, this statue of Lord Shiva is one of the tallest Hindu statues in the world. It attracts both religious devotees and tourists alike.
4. Bishankhu Narayan Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu features intricate stone carvings and is considered an important religious site for Hindus.
5. The Central Zoo (Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Botanical Garden): This zoo houses various species of animals including tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and birds. It also has a botanical garden with diverse plant species.
6. Fulchoki Bhanjyang: Situated at an altitude of 2,732 meters above sea level, Fulchoki Bhanjyang offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains like Langtang Lirung and Ganesh Himal.
7. Godavari Village Resort: Known for its serene surroundings and lush gardens, this resort provides a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city life.
8. The Royal Botanical Garden (Godavari Kunda): Spread over an area of 82 hectares, this garden showcases various plant species including medicinal plants as well as ponds with beautiful lotus flowers.
9. Taudaha Lake: Located nearby in Dakshinkali Municipality, Taudaha Lake is known for its scenic beauty and birdwatching opportunities with migratory birds visiting during winter months.
10. Bhaleshwor Mahadev Temple: Situated on a hilltop, this temple offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.

These landmarks and attractions offer visitors a mix of natural beauty, religious significance, and cultural experiences in Godawari, Nepal.

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1. Agriculture: The fertile lands of Godāwari support various agricultural activities. Farmers cultivate crops such as rice, wheat, maize, millet, barley, vegetables (potatoes, tomatoes), fruits (apples), and spices (ginger). Animal husbandry is also a significant part of agriculture in this region.
2. Livestock Farming: Rearing livestock for milk production and meat is another important industry in Godāwari. Cattle farming for dairy products like milk and ghee is common.
3. Manufacturing: There are a few small-scale manufacturing units in Godāwari that produce goods such as textiles (traditional Nepali clothing like Dhaka fabric), handicrafts (wooden carvings), pottery items, metalwork products (utensils), etc.
4. Tourism: Being located near Kathmandu Valley and surrounded by natural beauty including hills and forests makes Godāwari a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility away from urban areas. Ecotourism activities like hiking trails attract visitors to explore the area’s biodiversity.
5. Education: Several schools and educational institutions have been established in Godāwari over time to cater to local students’ needs as well as those from nearby regions.
6. Service Sector: With increasing urbanization around Kathmandu Valley’s periphery where Godāwari lies, there has been growth in service-oriented businesses such as restaurants/cafes serving traditional Nepali cuisine or international dishes to cater to locals or tourists visiting nearby attractions.
7. Trade & Commerce: Some shops exist within the town centers where daily necessities can be purchased by locals or visitors passing through the area.

It is worth noting that Godāwari’s economy is primarily agrarian, with a focus on subsistence farming. The industries and businesses mentioned above are significant but may not be as large-scale or diverse as in more urbanized areas.

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1. Godawari Botanical Garden: One of the major attractions in Godawari is the Godawari Botanical Garden, established in 1962. It is home to various species of plants and trees, including rare and endangered ones.
2. Rani Pokhari (Queen’s Pond): Rani Pokhari is a historic pond located in central Kathmandu, near Godawari. It was built by King Pratap Malla in 1670 AD as a tribute to his deceased son. The pond holds cultural and religious significance for locals.
3. Ancient Temples: In and around Godawari, there are several ancient temples that hold historical importance. Some notable ones include Kumbheshwar Temple, Adinath Lokeshwar Temple, Shanti Stupa (Peace Pagoda), etc.
4. King Mahendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev: King Mahendra was the ninth king of Nepal who ruled from 1955 until his death in 1972. He played a crucial role in modernizing Nepal during his reign.
5. Royal Botanical Expedition: In 1952-1953, a British expedition led by Colonel J.O.M Roberts conducted botanical research in Nepal’s hills surrounding Godawari area to study various plant species.
6. National Forest Research Center (NFRC): Established in 1985 at Hetauda within the vicinity of Godawari Municipality, NFRC conducts research on forest resources management and conservation.
7. Wildlife Conservation Efforts: The area around Godawari has been involved in various wildlife conservation efforts over the years due to its rich biodiversity and proximity to Shivapuri-Nagarjun National Park.
8. Gyanodaya Bal Batika School: Gyanodaya Bal Batika School is an esteemed educational institution located near Godawari. It has been providing quality education to students since its establishment in 1986.

These are just a few notable historical events and people associated with Godawari, Nepal. The region has a rich cultural and historical heritage that continues to attract visitors and researchers alike.

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1. Godawari Botanical Garden: Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, this stunning garden is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. It offers peaceful walking trails, beautiful landscapes, and a chance to witness Nepal’s natural beauty.
2. Godawari Kunda: A sacred pond nestled amidst lush greenery, Godawari Kunda is believed to have healing properties. Many pilgrims visit this serene spot for religious rituals and meditation.
3. Phulchoki Hill: For those seeking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, a hike up Phulchoki Hill is a must. The trail takes you through dense forests and offers breathtaking vistas from the summit.
4. National Botanical Garden (Godavari): This expansive garden showcases Nepal’s rich biodiversity with its wide variety of plants and trees. It also houses an orchid collection, herbariums, research facilities, and educational exhibits.
5. Bishankhu Narayan Temple: This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu dates back several centuries and features intricate wood carvings on its pagoda-style structure.
6. Pancha Rudra Mahadev Temple: Situated in Thaiba village near Godawari, this historic temple complex consists of five small temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in his different forms.
7. Dakshinkali Temple: Located around 20 km from Godawari lies Dakshinkali Temple—an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Kali Devi. The temple attracts numerous devotees during festivals like Dashain.
8. Martyr Memorial Park (Sahid Smarak Park): Built-in honor of Nepalese soldiers who lost their lives during various conflicts, this park offers peaceful surroundings for reflection along with beautiful sculptures depicting bravery and sacrifice.
9. Godavari Marble Art Factory: If you’re interested in traditional Nepalese artwork made from marble, a visit to this art factory is recommended. Here, you can witness skilled craftsmen creating intricate sculptures and learn about their techniques.
10. Godawari Cheese Production: For cheese enthusiasts, a tour of the Godawari Cheese Factory is a unique experience. You can observe the cheese-making process and even sample some delicious local dairy products.

These are just a few of the attractions in and around Godawari that offer cultural, natural, and historical experiences for visitors to Nepal.

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1. Cricket: The Nepal national cricket team has gained recognition in recent years. They have participated in various international tournaments like the ICC World Twenty20 and have achieved success at the regional level.
2. Football: The Nepal national football team represents the country in international football competitions such as the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers and South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Championship.
3. Volleyball: The Nepal men’s national volleyball team competes regionally in tournaments like the South Asian Games and AVC Central Zone Volleyball Championship.

These are just a few examples of some popular sports teams representing Nepal at an international level. However, for more specific information about local teams or histories within Godāwari̇̄ itself, it would be best to consult local sources or individuals familiar with the area’s sporting scene.

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Festivals in Godāwari, Nepal

1. Indrajatra

   This is a major festival celebrated in Kathmandu Valley, including Godāwari. It honors Indra, the king of gods and lord of rain. The festival involves processions, masked dances (Lakhe dance), music, and various rituals.

2. Holi

   Also known as the festival of colors, Holi is celebrated with great enthusiasm in Godāwari. People throw colored powders and water at each other to celebrate the arrival of spring.

3. Teej

   This is a women-centric festival celebrated by married Hindu women for marital bliss and well-being of their husbands. Women dress up in red attire, fast throughout the day, sing songs, dance (teej dance), and participate in various cultural activities.

4. Dashain

   It is one of the biggest Hindu festivals celebrated across Nepal. Dashain lasts for 15 days and marks the victory of good over evil. The festival includes animal sacrifices (especially goats), family gatherings, feasts, flying kites (patang bazi), playing cards (playing gambling games like rummy or flush), swings (ping) for children, and cultural performances.

5. Tihar

   Also known as Deepawali or Diwali, Tihar is a five-day-long Hindu festival celebrated with lights to honor different gods such as Laxmi (goddess of wealth) and Yama Raj (god of death). People decorate their homes with oil lamps called diyas or candles; perform prayers; make colorful patterns called rangoli; play traditional musical instruments like Deusi-Bhailo; perform dances like Bhailo Dance; exchange gifts; burst firecrackers; and enjoy festive meals.

6. Bisket Jatra

   This unique New Year celebration falls during mid-April where people pull chariots carrying idols of gods and goddesses through the streets. The festival involves various traditional rituals, cultural performances, and a tug-of-war competition.

These are just a few examples of the cultural events and festivals celebrated in Godāwari, Nepal. There are many more festivals that vary based on local traditions and customs.

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Nepali Cuisines

1. Dal Bhat

   A traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), rice (bhat), and various side dishes such as curries, pickles, and yogurt.

2. Momo

   Steamed or fried dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables. They are often served with a spicy tomato sauce.

3. Newari Cuisine

   The Newar community in Godawari is known for its unique cuisine, including dishes like bara (lentil pancake), choila (marinated grilled meat), and yomari (steamed dumpling filled with sweetened sesame paste).

4. Dhido

   A traditional Nepali dish made from maize or buckwheat flour cooked into a thick porridge-like consistency. It is often served with Gundruk ko Jhol (fermented leafy green soup) or other side dishes.

5. Thakali Cuisine

   Thakali people from the Mustang region of Nepal have their own distinct cuisine which includes dishes like dal bhat thakali set (a complete meal set consisting of dal bhat along with various side dishes), sukuti (dried meat), and apple pie.

Popular Restaurants in Godawari, Nepal

1. Park Village Resort Restaurant

   Located within the Park Village Resort premises, this restaurant offers a variety of Nepali and international cuisines including local delicacies like momo and dal bhat.

2. The Old House Restaurant & Bar

   Situated in a renovated old house, this restaurant serves authentic Newari cuisine along with other Nepali specialties.

3. Cafe De Patan

   This cafe located near the Godawari Botanical Garden offers a range of food options including traditional Nepali dishes such as dhido and gundruk ko jhol.

4. Hotel Himalaya Darshan Restaurant

   Known for its Thakali cuisine, this restaurant offers a wide range of dishes from the Mustang region, including dal bhat thakali set and sukuti.

5. Godawari Village Resort Restaurant

   This resort’s restaurant provides a variety of cuisines including local Nepali dishes like dal bhat and momo, along with international options.

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1. Godawari Botanical Garden: This beautiful garden is a popular recreational spot with various species of plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks amidst nature.
2. Phulchowki Hill: Located near Godawari, Phulchowki Hill is a great place for hiking and nature enthusiasts. The hill offers stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley.
3. Taudaha Lake: Situated in the outskirts of Godawari, Taudaha Lake is known for its serene surroundings and bird watching opportunities.
4. Champa Devi Hiking Trail: This trail starts from Pharping (near Godawari) and leads to the Champa Devi peak offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.
5. Bishankhu Narayan Temple: A famous Hindu temple located in Godawari where visitors can explore religious architecture and traditions.
6. Cycling Tours: Cycling tours are available in Godawari that allow visitors to explore the scenic beauty of the area while enjoying outdoor activities.
7. Picnics at Riverside Areas: There are several riverside areas near Godawari where locals often go for picnics or family outings during weekends or holidays.
8. Local Festivals: Participating in local festivals such as Holi (the festival of colors) or Dashain (the biggest Hindu festival) can be a unique cultural experience for tourists visiting Godawari.

Please note that some activities may require permits or local guidance, so it’s advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators before planning any specific activity in Godawari, Nepal.

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