RATNA PARK - Historic Urban Green Space

King Mahendra inaugurated Ratna Park in 1964, dedicating this 22,000-square-meter green sanctuary to his consort, Queen Ratna, with the intention of creating a recreational space for Kathmandu's children. Strategically positioned between the historical landmarks of Rani Pokhari and Tudikhel in the city's bustling core, the park quickly transcended its original purpose to become the capital's central gathering spot—a democratic space where office workers eat lunch on benches, elderly residents practice tai chi at dawn, young couples steal quiet moments, and political demonstrations begin their marches.

In 2017, Kathmandu Metropolitan City officially renamed it Sankhadhar Sakhwa Park to honor the founder of the Nepal Sambat calendar, though locals stubbornly continue calling it Ratna Park, demonstrating how deeply the original name has embedded itself in the city's consciousness. The park's manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and shaded walkways provide essential respite from Kathmandu's concrete density and traffic chaos. A central green pond attracts flocks of pigeons and ducks that have become permanent residents, fed daily by visitors who consider this act meritorious.

Statues and monuments scattered throughout the park pay homage to Nepal's history—from ancient kings to modern democracy activists—turning the space into an open-air museum of national memory. Children's play areas with swings and slides draw families on weekend afternoons, while shaded pavilions offer rest spots for the elderly and tired shoppers from nearby Ratna Park Market. The park occasionally hosts cultural events showcasing traditional dance, music performances, and festivals that transform the usually peaceful grounds into vibrant celebrations.

With 16,641 reviews and a 3.9-star rating, visitors appreciate Ratna Park less for spectacular features than for its authentic urban park experience—a space that reveals how Kathmandu residents actually live, relax, and gather rather than how tourism brochures present Nepal. Its central location makes it easily accessible by bus, taxi, or on foot from tourist areas like Thamel, and it serves as a convenient orientation landmark in Kathmandu's often-confusing street layout.

Most visitors stumble upon this park rather than actively seeking it out, but once you discover it, it becomes part of your regular circuit. The morning crowd is different from the evening crowd - mornings bring the fitness enthusiasts and meditation folks, while evenings attract families and couples looking for a peaceful end to their day.

The best time to visit really depends on what you're after. Want peace and quiet? Hit it up on weekday mornings when it's mostly empty except for a few dedicated regulars. Looking for that community vibe? Weekend afternoons are when the park truly comes alive with activity. Food vendors set up near the gates, and the smell of grilled corn and momos fills the air.

Facilities are straightforward - you've got the basics covered with restrooms, drinking water, and some play equipment for kids. The local municipality does a decent job keeping things maintained, though you can tell budget limitations mean this won't win any landscaping awards. But honestly, that's part of its appeal - it's authentic urban green space without trying to be something it's not.