The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a 160-plus-year-old tropical garden that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 — the first and only tropical botanic garden on the list. Spanning about 82 hectares in the Tanglin district, it is free to enter and popular with locals and visitors for strolling, jogging and picnics. Only the National Orchid Garden within the grounds charges an admission fee.
National Orchid Garden: the star attraction, with over 1,000 orchid species and 2,000-plus hybrids, including a VIP Orchid Garden of blooms named after visiting heads of state and celebrities.
SPH Walk of the Giants: a 260 m elevated boardwalk about 8 m above ground that puts you at eye level with the forest canopy and century-old giant trees.
Swan Lake and Symphony Lake: scenic lakes with swans and waterfowl plus an outdoor performance stage, great for photos and a rest.
Historic and botanical sights such as the octagonal 1930s Bandstand and the fragrant Ginger Garden.
Family-friendly spots including the free Jacob Ballas Children's Garden and COMO Adventure Grove.
Good to know
SeasonIt is hot and humid year-round with frequent afternoon rain showers. Visit early morning (7–10am) or late afternoon (4–7pm), and bring water, a hat and an umbrella. Shaded areas, water points and cafes are available throughout.
SafetyMosquitoes are common, so bring insect repellent. Large Malayan water monitor lizards also live in the gardens — do not approach, touch or feed them; keep your distance and they will leave you alone.
RulesCycling is not allowed inside the gardens and offenders can be fined; drones and model aircraft are also prohibited. Stick to the marked paths.
MannersDo not feed the wildlife, including swans, turtles, fish and ducks. Avoid stepping on flower beds and protected lawns, and be considerate of other visitors at popular photo spots.
CautionSingapore is generally very safe, but as a Southeast Asia travel habit use licensed metered taxis or the Grab app and avoid touts offering rides at the gates. Buy Orchid Garden tickets only at the official counter or website, and beware of overpriced resold tours nearby.
Practical info
There are several gates (Tanglin, Bukit Timah, etc.) and the grounds connect directly to Botanic Gardens MRT station. Allow at least 2–3 hours. The main gardens are free (open daily 5am–midnight); the National Orchid Garden is ticketed (foreign adult around SGD 15, under 12 free). Confirm current hours, fees and rules at nparks.gov.sg before you go.
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