Botanic Gardens, Singapore
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Botanic Gardens - by Little MiMi from Pixabay
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.
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
av. transport time:0h 20m
est. visit time:2h
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