Singapore Botanic Gardens
Central Singapore
The Singapore Botanic Gardens, located at the edge of Singapore's Orchard Road district, is a sprawling tropical garden covering 82 hectares. Founded in 1859 by the Agri-horticultural Society, it has evolved from a pleasure park into a globally recognized botanical institution. The Gardens played a pivotal role in the early 20th century rubber trade, with director Henry Nicholas Ridley pioneering rubber cultivation techniques that boosted global latex production. It houses the National Orchid Garden, which boasts over 1,200 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids, reflecting Singapore's prominence in orchid cultivation and export. The Gardens also contributed to Singapore's transformation into a "Garden City" after independence, symbolized by the national flower, the hybrid Vanda Miss Joaquim. Visitors can explore diverse flora across interconnected pathways, enjoy the VIP Orchid Gardens dedicated to dignitaries, and experience a verdant oasis amid the urban cityscape. The Gardens are open daily from early morning until midnight, welcoming millions of visitors annually.
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Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat and crowds. Entry to the main gardens is free, but tickets are required for the National Orchid Garden. Purchasing tickets online in advance is recommended during peak seasons and special events. The Gardens offer guided tours and various exhibitions throughout the year, enhancing the visitor experience. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, as the grounds are extensive.
Interesting facts
- •The Singapore Botanic Gardens is the only tropical garden to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- •It houses the largest orchid collection in the world, with over 1,200 species and 2,000 hybrids.
- •Henry Nicholas Ridley, known as 'Mad Ridley', developed rubber cultivation techniques that revolutionized the global rubber industry.
- •The hybrid orchid Vanda Miss Joaquim, developed at the Gardens, is Singapore's national flower.
- •The Gardens receive approximately 4.5 million visitors annually, making it one of Asia's top park attractions.
History
The original botanical garden in Singapore was established in 1822 by Sir Stamford Raffles but closed in 1829.
The current Singapore Botanic Gardens was founded in 1859 on land granted by the colonial government.
Initially designed as a pleasure park by Lawrence Niven, it featured English landscape garden styles and expanded in the 1860s.
The Gardens became government-managed in 1874.
In 1877, rubber seedlings were introduced from Kew Gardens, and under Henry Nicholas Ridley's directorship from 1888, the Gardens spearheaded rubber cultivation, turning Malaya into the world's leading rubber producer by the 1920s.
Place Guide
National Orchid Garden
This garden features the world's largest collection of orchids, including over 1,200 species and 2,000 hybrids. It showcases Singapore's pioneering work in orchid hybridization and serves as a major attraction within the Botanic Gardens.
Swan Lake1866
A scenic artificial lake excavated in 1866, surrounded by lush greenery and a habitat for swans and other waterfowl, offering tranquil views and photo opportunities.
Burkill Hall1868
Completed in 1868, this historic building was part of the early infrastructure of the Gardens and reflects colonial architectural influences.
Contact
Phone: 1800 471 7300
