Way to Singapore Botanic Garden from City Center

Fig-Singapore Botanic Garden

How to Go to Singapore Botanic Garden from City Center?

To go to the Singapore Botanic Gardens from the city center, you have several transportation options available. Here are a few ways to get there:

MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) and Bus Singapore Botanic Garden:

Take the MRT to the Orchard MRT Station (North-South Line NS22 or Downtown Line DT12).

From Orchard MRT, exit the station and walk to the Tanglin Gate entrance of the Botanic Gardens. It's approximately a 15-20 minute walk.

Alternatively, you can take a short bus ride from Orchard Road. Look for buses numbered 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, or 123, which will drop you off near the Tanglin Gate entrance.

Taxi or Ride-Sharing Services for Singapore Botanic Garden:

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are readily available throughout the city center. Simply hail a taxi or book a ride and provide the driver with the destination "Singapore Botanic Gardens, Tanglin Gate." The driver will take you directly to the entrance.

Walking:

If you're staying in the city center and enjoy walking, it is possible to walk to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, although it will take some time. The gardens are approximately 3-4 kilometers away from Orchard Road, so be prepared for a longer walk.

Bicycle Rental for Singapore Botanic Garden:

Another option is to rent a bicycle from one of the bike-sharing services available in Singapore, such as oBike, ofo, or Anywheel. You can find bike docking stations throughout the city center. Ride the bicycle to the Botanic Gardens, and there are bike racks available for parking near the entrances.

It's important to note that the Singapore Botanic Gardens has multiple entrances, but the Tanglin Gate is the main entrance and a convenient starting point for exploring the gardens. It's always a good idea to check public transportation schedules or use navigation apps to plan your route and ensure a smooth journey to the gardens.

How to Walk in Singapore Botanic Garden?

Fig- Flower

Walking through the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a wonderful experience that allows you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. Here's a suggested route for your walk:

Enter through the Tanglin Gate: The main entrance to the Singapore Botanic Gardens is located at the Tanglin Gate. As you enter, you'll be greeted by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere.

Explore the Palm Valley: Head towards the Palm Valley, which is home to a collection of majestic palm trees. Take your time to stroll along the pathway and admire the different species of palms.

Visit the National Orchid Garden: Make your way to the National Orchid Garden, which showcases a stunning display of orchids from all over the world. Marvel at the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of these beautiful flowers.

Walk along Swan Lake: From the orchid garden, continue your walk towards Swan Lake. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance as you watch the graceful swans gliding on the water. You might also spot other bird species in the vicinity.

Explore the Rainforest: Proceed toward the Rainforest section of the garden. This area features a lush tropical rainforest ecosystem with tall trees, ferns, and an abundance of plant and animal life. Walk along the elevated boardwalks to experience the forest from different levels.

Fig-Flower in Rainforest Singapore

Discover the Evolution Garden: Next, head to the Evolution Garden, which provides a glimpse into the evolution of plant life on Earth. Learn about the different eras and see how plants have adapted over time.

Relax at the Symphony Lake: After your exploration, take a break at the Symphony Lake. This picturesque spot is known for its open-air concerts and beautiful water features. Find a bench or a grassy area to sit, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.

Visit the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden (optional): If you're accompanied by children or are interested in interactive displays, you can make a detour to the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden. This section is designed to engage young visitors with educational activities and play areas.

Exit through the Nassim Gate: To conclude your walk, make your way towards the Nassim Gate. As you exit the garden, you'll pass by the stunning Swan Lake gazebo and can appreciate the beauty of the gardens one last time.

Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring some water, and consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler. Enjoy your stroll through the Singapore Botanic Gardens!

History of Singapore Botanic Garden

Fig-Jungle Fruit in Singapore Botanic Garden

The Singapore Botanic Gardens has a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. Here's an overview of its historical background:

Singapore Botanic Garden Establishment and Early Years (1859-1874):

The Singapore Botanic Gardens was founded in 1859 by an agri-horticultural society called the Agri-Horticultural Society of Singapore.

The gardens were initially established on a 32-hectare piece of land in the Tanglin area of Singapore.

The primary purpose of the garden was to promote agricultural and horticultural development in the region, particularly in the cultivation of rubber and other valuable plants.

The Role in Rubber Industry (Late 19th to Early 20th Century):

In the late 19th century, the Singapore Botanic Gardens played a crucial role in the development of the rubber industry in Southeast Asia.

Botanist Henry Nicholas Ridley, who served as the Gardens' director from 1888 to 1911, played a key role in introducing and popularizing rubber cultivation in the region.

Ridley successfully developed new techniques for tapping rubber trees and played a significant role in making rubber a commercially viable crop.

Singapore Botanic Garden Growth and Expansion (20th Century):

Over the years, the Singapore Botanic Gardens expanded its collection and added new features. Various plant houses, including the Orchid House, Fern House, and Lily Pond, were established during this period.

The Gardens also focused on scientific research and became a center for botanical studies and plant conservation.

In 1957, the Singapore Botanic Gardens came under the management of the newly formed National Parks Board (formerly known as the Parks and Recreation Department).

Singapore Botanic Garden UNESCO World Heritage Site (2015):

In 2015, the Singapore Botanic Gardens achieved international recognition when it was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Gardens received this prestigious status for its historical significance, horticultural excellence, and its role in the advancement of plant and botanical research.

It is the first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Today, the Singapore Botanic Gardens continues to serve as a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. It boasts a vast collection of plants, including rare and endangered species, and provides a serene and educational environment for visitors to enjoy nature and learn about the botanical world.

Main Attraction to Singapore Botanic Garden

The Singapore Botanic Gardens offers a variety of attractions and features for visitors to enjoy. One of the main highlights of the garden is:

National Orchid Garden in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

Fig-Orchid in Singapore Botanic Garden

The National Orchid Garden is a must-visit attraction within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. It showcases a stunning collection of orchids from around the world, with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids on display. Visitors can admire the vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and unique shapes of these beautiful flowers. The garden also houses the Burkill Hall, which provides a picturesque backdrop for events and exhibitions.

In addition to the National Orchid Garden, there are several other notable features within the Singapore Botanic Gardens worth exploring:

Rainforest in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

The Rainforest section of the garden provides a unique opportunity to experience a tropical rainforest ecosystem in the heart of the city. Walk along the elevated boardwalks and immerse yourself in the lush greenery, towering trees, and diverse plant and animal life.

Jacob Ballas Children's Garden in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

This dedicated children's garden is designed to engage young visitors through interactive exhibits, educational displays, and play areas. Children can learn about plants, nature, and the environment while enjoying various activities and attractions.

Symphony Lake in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

Symphony Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by lush foliage. It is a popular spot for outdoor concerts, performances, and picnics. The open-air stage and water features add to the charm of this tranquil setting.

Heritage Trees in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is home to numerous Heritage Trees, which are recognized for their historical, cultural, and ecological significance. These trees are labeled with informative plaques and provide an opportunity to learn about Singapore's natural heritage.

Evolution Garden in Singapore Botanic Garden: 

The Evolution Garden showcases the fascinating story of plant evolution over millions of years. Visitors can explore various displays and learn about the different stages and adaptations of plant life throughout history.

These are just a few of the main attractions within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The garden also offers a wealth of walking trails, themed gardens, sculptures, and natural habitats to discover, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy during their visit.