Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO)
A 160-year-old tropical garden and Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage site (inscribed 2015). The gardens combine curated botanical collections, a remnant rainforest, lakes, heritage trees and cultural landmarks across 82 hectares — offering a peaceful green lung in the city and a living museum for plant conservation, research and recreation.
Location
Singapore Botanic Gardens, Tanglin, Singapore
Duration
1–4 hours (typical). Half-day (3–4 hours) recommended to see main highlights.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round. Best times: early morning (06:00–09:00) or late afternoon (16:00–18:00) to avoid midday heat and sudden showers. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
Pricing
General entry: Free. National Orchid Garden: Paid entry (adult SGD 15–20; concessions available). Special exhibitions or guided tours may have separate fees. Check official site for current prices.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
UNESCO World Heritage-listed site (outstanding universal value for botanic and cultural landscape).
National Orchid Garden — world-class orchid displays and hybrids.
Remnant tropical rainforest (one of the few in Singapore).
Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden — interactive family area focused on nature education.
Swan Lake, Symphony Lake and the iconic Bandstand (concerts and events).
Heritage trees and plaques charting the gardens' 19th–20th century history.
Accessible walking paths, picnic lawns and visitor facilities.
Itinerary
Early morning walk / jog through the Rainforest and around Swan Lake
Enjoy birdwatching and cooler temperatures; good for sunrise photography.
Visit the National Orchid Garden
Arrive early to avoid crowds. Entrance fee applies; check opening hours and ticketing.
Explore the Palm Valley, Healing Garden and heritage trees
Flat, paved paths suitable for most visitors; read information panels for botanical context.
Relax at Swan Lake / catch a free concert at the Bandstand (if scheduled)
Picnic-friendly lawns nearby. Respect event signage and acoustics.
Family stop at Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden or café lunch
Children’s Garden may require advance booking for school groups; several cafés and kiosks available.
Safety Requirements
Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and stay hydrated — Singapore is hot and humid.
Use insect repellent in wooded areas; watch for mosquitoes near water.
Stay on marked paths and respect plant borders; do not pick flowers or climb trees.
Supervise children near lakes and water features.
Follow park signage and instructions during events; in heavy rain seek shelter.
Tips
Arrive via Botanic Gardens MRT (CC19/DT9) — convenient access to Tanglin Gate and Bukit Timah Gate.
Download or pick up a park map at the Visitor Centre; free guided tours are sometimes available — check the schedule.
Combine with nearby attractions (Dempsey Hill, Orchard Road) by taxi or bus for a full-day itinerary.
Bring reusable water bottle; refill stations are available.
Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing; bring a small umbrella for sudden showers.
If the National Orchid Garden is a priority, buy tickets online in advance during peak periods.
Photography is allowed for personal use; commercial shoots may require permits.
