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Botanic Gardens, Singapore

Cluny Road, Singapore,

Description

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the city's main attractions and one of only 3 gardens listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was founded in 1859 as a "pleasure park" by the Singapore Agri-horticultural Society and played an important role in rubber extraction related research (the first seedlings came from Kew Gardens) in a region that was to become the largest natural rubber producer in the world by the 1920's. It covers 82 ha, to the west of the Orchard Rd district, and contains over 10,000 species of flora. The National Orchid Garden is set within the Botanic Garden; it charges an entrance fee and is covered under a separate review.

Access & Transport

The closest MRT stations are Botanic Garden (Downtown and Circle lines) at the northwest corner and Napier (TE line) near the southwest corner. There are also bus stops along Bukit Timah rd (north side) and Holland rd (south side) near Tanglin. There are several parkings and pedestrian entrances.

Instructions & Recommendations

The more attractive section is in the centre, close to the Visitors' Center, and walking up to the Bandstand. We recommend combining a walk there with a visit of the National Orchid Garden which is located in the central area, at the upper end of the Palm Valley.

Meta review

The gardens are on every single list of things to do in Singapore and are renowned internationally so expectations from visitors are pretty high and most are very pleased with the variety of plants / flowers and the scenery, confirming it is one of the best attractions in the city state. However, there is a minority of reviewers who express a slight disappointment, stating that it is nice but not spectacular in any way. Bring water is the most consistent advice we have come across!

Environmental & Social

A very green activity. The Garden is part of the city's cultural heritage and an important center of botanical research. It is also extremely popular with fitness enthusiasts

Conclusion

The Botanical Gardens are definitely worth visiting when in Singapore. Do not expect to be awed, but rather, come with the intent of having a relaxing walk in a natural environnent with plenty of educational information about tropical trees and plants. Best to come early in the morning to avoid the heat as much as possible.

Key positive

Many paths to explore with varied topography and flora

Excellent infrastructure for visitors

Centrally located

Key negative

Paths and direction can be a little confusing

It is very hot during the day

Suitability

Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility

About this Rating

TYPE

Onsite

RESEARCHED IN

May 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit

av. transport time:0h 20m

est. visit time:2h

Regulated hours

Monday05:00 - 23:45

Tuesday05:00 - 23:45

Wednesday05:00 - 23:45

Thursday05:00 - 23:45

Friday05:00 - 23:45

Saturday05:00 - 23:45

Sunday05:00 - 23:45

Pricing
Free

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