National Orchid Garden - Singapore
The botanic gardens rank among the most popular Singapore attractions and, in 2016, they became the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some city sightseeing tours include a stop at the garden, but it’s also possible to tour the gardens independently or with a private guide who can offer insight into the economic and cultural importance of the plants on display.
The National Orchid Garden listed on the World Heritage site list of UNESCO is located on the uppermost hill in the Botanical gardens of Singapore. The Garden houses more than 2000 varieties of hybrids and species residing here. It has a beautiful display of flowers extremely well-kept and spread over 8 acres and divided into 4 separate colour zones. The spring zone has orchids that are bright and vibrant like yellow and gold.
The summer colour zones are made up of orchids that are dark reds and pinks that catch your attention. The White colour zone has orchids that are mainly blues and whites that complement the winter weather and the autumn colour zone is full of orchids which are made up of mature colours. The orchard has the rarest of the varieties and in different sizes and shapes. Every year new flower varieties are added which makes a repeated visit here completely worth it. The garden is a great place to educate yourself about the different orchids and under what weather conditions they are grown.
This is a lovely place to indulge in nature walks or take part in a nature walking tour that will take you through all the varieties in its 90-minute span. The tour teaches the hybridisation process and the methods of pollination in different seasons for the ones who are extremely interested in knowing. The garden is wheel-chair friendly and has signposts at vantage points to enable easy and swift tours. There are many activities and places you can see within the garden to enrich your experience here.
The National Orchid Garden is located on the highest hill in the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Three hectares of carefully landscaped slopes provide a setting for over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, with about 600 species and hybrids on display.
The distinctive feature of the National Orchid Garden not to be missed is its design concept which presents the display of plants in four separate colour zones over most of its areas:
"spring" zone with its prevailing colours of bright and lively shades of gold, yellow and creams
"summer" zone with its major tones of strong reds and pinks
"autumn" zone of matured shades
"winter" zone of whites and cool violet shades
In 1929, the garden developed the first hybrid orchid as part of an orchid-breeding programme. Since then, this unique breeding programme has been instrumental in producing an array of striking hybrids. Following a grant for its redevelopment in the 80s, a new plan was laid out on the basis of a 3-core concept with 3 different zones such as Bukit Timah Core, Tanglin Core and Central Core. The Central Core now holds the expansive National Orchid Garden.
Most noteworthy is the garden’s distinctive design concept – orchids arranged on the basis of a colour system to suit the 4 seasons. Cream and yellow orchids stand for spring and pink and red orchids for summer. An astounding collection of white orchids form part of the winter display, and purple and red orchids grace the autumn section.
One of the most important segments of the National Orchid Garden is Burkill Hall – once serving as the residence of the garden’s directors. The colonial-style structure’s focal point is the VIP Orchid Garden that boasts an outstanding range of hybrid orchids named after some of the world’s renowned personalities, occasions, and organisations. Ascocenda Kwa Geok Choo, Dendrobium Jackie Chan, Paravanda Nelson Mandela and Dendrobium World Peace are just a few.
Tan Hoon Siang Mist House features a fine selection of fragrant orchids. Adjacent to the mist house is the Yuen-Peng McNeice Bromeliad Collection with about 1,000 varieties of Bromeliads donated by Lady Yuen-Peng McNeice. The Cool House is a glass structure controlled by computerized chillers that keep the temperature way below Singapore’s usual mugginess. It serves as a haven for over 500 orchid species – mostly endangered in their natural habitation.
Attractions at National Orchid Garden
There is no denying that the National Orchid Garden is one of the most spectacular and magnificent locations to be visited and within the garden. Within it, there are many other unmissable attractions to see.
1. Gardens shops:
Book enthusiasts, accessory lovers and souvenir collectors are in for a treat at the Gardens Shops located here. The shop has some of the best collections which entice every visitor to own something from here.
2. Tan Hoon Siang Mist House:
You will find here the most colourful and the rarest types of orchids you have ever witnessed. This is a great place to click photos and a wonderful place to rest and feel good about nature’s abundance near you.
3. Cool House:
A Flora Conservatory where the temperature is kept cool to maintain the plants, the Cool house also houses a few varieties of Carnivores plants like the Pitcher plants. They are first planted here in the right conditions and taken back to the garden for further growth.
4. VIP garden:
This area of the garden is called so because here there are orchids named after VIP and top personalities like Ban Ki-Moon, Baroness Margaret Thatcher and many more. These beautiful and vibrant orchids are named after the rich and famous. The name VIP garden then came about because it was kept in mind of great people and their contributions. People love coming here to take fresh air and use this space for their routine exercise and jogging.
5. Burkill Hall:
You will love the Burkill Hall which is located at the highest point in the garden. It is named after Isaac and Humphrey Burkill who used this place as a residence and as a father and son.
6. Celebrity Garden:
Apart from Foreign Dignitaries, popular movie stars including Shahrukh Khan have orchids named after them.
7. Vanda Miss Joaquin Collection:
Vanda Miss Joaquin is one of the Orchid hybrids and also the national flower of Singapore. Near the weeping willow, you will see a great collection of the Miss Joaquin orchids that blooms throughout the year.
Things to do near/at National Orchid Garden
Apart from taking nature walks and enjoying the colourful display of hybrids, there are a host of other activities that can be done in the Garden.
1. Go Shopping:
If you are a compulsive shopper then you should not lose your chance to visit the Orchard road. The Orchard Road is a great example of Colonial architecture which houses upmarket brands and tags. You will also find scores of pedestrian shopping zones and great coffee houses and cafes to complete your experience.
2. Visit Hong San See temple:
This magnificent temple is located on a tiny hill a few km away from the National Orchid Garden. The temple is a true example of Chinese architecture with engravings done in the local language.
3. Visit Singapore Botanic gardens:
This 52-hectare treasure trove of flora is Singapore's most luxuriant gardens. The best part about this garden is its division into a man-made garden on one end and the presence of natural forests on the other, which remains untouched.
4. A walk into nature:
Visit Fort Canning Park and embrace nature like never before. There is a spice garden within the park, which is famous for its nutmeg and clove plants frequented a lot by visitors.
These are some of the things you can do near the National Orchid Garden but within the garden too, there is a gamut of activities that you can engage in that we have listed:
You can take different guided tours that are available for guests. These tours are intended to help the extra curious and those who love to learn about plant life.
Participate in various art and drawing contests organised at a regular level here.
Go for a hike or take a cycle ride through the garden on a self-exploratory mode
Enjoy and engage with Tai Chi groups in the garden.
If you love birds then you will surely be surprised at the number of birds that pay a visit to the garden on a regular basis.
Places to Dine & Shop at National Orchid Garden
Places to Eat:
1. Bee’s Knees at the Garage:
Drawing inspiration from the bees, this place is surely known for its waffles, fruit bowls, Pizzas and Pasta. The visitors at the park can make a pit-stop here for small hunger.
2. Botanico at the Garage:
A modern-day bistro with delightful and divine interiors, the Botanico is popular for its seasonal delights packaged and cooked from the heart.
3. Corner House:
This is a unique multi-layered dining experience that not just satisfies your hunger but also provides a great sight and ambience to sit in. You can go for holding private events here where you can savour every bit of your meal in the lush garden.
4. Food For Tots Café:
This newly developed garden resulting for children is a family-friendly place especially when you have kids and need a comfortable set up with yummy food catering their tastes.
5. Juju:
This is for light take-away and snack options where you can combine some low-calorie snack with frozen desserts and smoothies.
For shopping and retail therapy you can visit:
Gardens shops:
If you love home décor pieces then visiting here is mandatory. The Gardens shops at Orchid Garden are known to have a wide collection of home décor, fashion and jewellery. You will also find a curated range of special golden orchids along with other orchid plants on display.
Places to visit near National Orchid Garden
A visit to the garden is one of the most memorable moments you will have here but after taking a tour, there are several places near the garden which can be discovered and enjoyed.
1. Universal Studios:
One of the most famous theme parks designed by Universal Studios, the studio houses 28 rides, numerous shows, attractions and 7 areas designed according to different themes. The park is spread over a 20-hectare area and is a perfect getaway for people of all age groups.
Jurong is Asia’s largest Bird Park and an absolute haven for bird lovers. You will love to visit here chiefly because of the talent shows organised showcasing different skills of birds.
3. HortPark:
The HortPark, chiefly a connection between Kent Ridge Park and Mount Faber Park is a lush and rich green garden hub of Singapore.
4. Gardens by the Bay:
After visiting the National Orchid Garden if you have not had enough of parks, do pay a visit to this sprawling 101-hectare natural wonder. The architecture of the garden is inspired by Japanese Zen gardens and provides a wonderful horticultural experience to the visitors.
Hotels near National Orchid Garden
1.Shangri-La Singapore
Be welcomed by Shangri-La Singapore's Asian service from the heart, step into its striking lobby oasis and discover a world of luxurious indulgence. Nestled within 15 acres of tropical landscaped gardens, guests are warmly embraced by the hotel’s distinct service and smiles. A sanctuary in the heart of the city, this tropical hideaway provides a vibrant and diverse social scene, unparalleled culinary experiences and family facilities to indulge in the best of everything, or simply relax, unwind and let the world go by.
2.Orchard Hotel Singapore
Hashtag #StayAtOHS #DineAtOHS to be featured on our social media platforms. We are delighted to update that Orchard Hotel Singapore has completed its latest phase of the enhancement, unveiling brand new areas of the hotel including reception, dining, meeting and event spaces as well as the Grand Deluxe rooms in the Orchard Wing. Located along Orchard Road, and just a short walk from the MRT station, Orchard Hotel Singapore features a half Olympic-size outdoor swimming pool, a life-size chessboard, and fully-equipped fitness centre. Its perfect location and choice offerings for business and leisure make for a stay secluded from the hustle of the busy city, whilst Singapore’s top shopping and entertainment options are available on its doorstep. Contemporary, yet classic in style, our 656 tastefully appointed Orchard road accommodation features modern conveniences and Chinese accents, allowing guests to feel truly at home. Amenities include flat-screen TVs with premium cable channels, rain showers and pillow menus, along with complimentary Wi-Fi.
Situated at the heart of the city’s premier shopping district, with the world-class shopping of Orchard Road at your doorstep and the grandeurs of a 5-star hotel within, The St. Regis Singapore is the ideal residence for the discerning luxury traveller. The St. Regis experience begins when you arrive at Changi Airport. A luxurious St. Regis Bentley and chauffeur can be arranged for your journey to the address where timeless elegance resides.From its location at the most coveted address, set at the crossroads of the embassy district and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Singapore Botanic Gardens, to the legendary St. Regis Butler Service, this is world-class hospitality at its finest. The St. Regis Singapore has been certified as an SG Clean establishment. With an SG Clean certification, the hotel is committed to upholding good sanitation and hygiene practices backed by the National Environment Agency, Enterprise Singapore and Singapore Tourism Board.
4.Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel
Brilliant experiences await at award-winning Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel. It begins with our 5-star Singapore hotel's superb location right on Orchard Road, one of the city's most vibrant shopping and entertainment hubs. While venturing out is a breeze, you'll also have no problem settling into one of our well-appointed, luxurious hotel rooms and suites, spending your days soaking in the sun at our newly redesigned pool or indulging in a therapeutic treatment at our spa. However, if you prefer to pass your time while in Singapore, look forward to our array of exciting restaurants and bars, which offer world-class Japanese, bespoke cocktails and lots more. Boasting more than 18,000 square feet of flexible venue space and 12 versatile meeting rooms, we're also the best choice for an event in Singapore. Whether it is for work, play or a little bit of both, we think you'll appreciate all that the Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotel has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you.
Essential information
The National Orchid Garden is located within the Singapore Botanical Garden on its highest peak.
The garden was inaugurated in 1995 and ever since has been one of the most visited places.
Located on 1, Cluny road In Singapore, the location is not too far away from the city central districts.
The garden visitation begins at 8.30 AM and lasts till 19.00 Hrs.
Entry for children below 12 years old is free of charge.
National Orchid Garden attractions pass types
$5.00 for adults
$1.00 for students
$1.00 for senior citizens (60 years and above)
Free for children below 12 years
Things to Know Before You Go
The Singapore botanical garden offers a romantic experience for couples and a fun, educational experience for families with kids.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and bug spray to protect your skin from the elements.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
Most of the garden paths are wheelchair friendly but assistance may be required on hilly terrain.
Tips for Visiting National Orchid Garden
If you keep in mind these tips we are sure that your visit will be delightful and memorable.
By the entrance of the Garden, there is a pavilion where different types of books and reference guides are stored. You can opt to buy these books and souvenirs on display. The rates are pretty reasonable hence the need for bargaining will be minimal.
You can also bring a lot of eateries along with you, but the garden also has a lot of eat-outs where you can enjoy different cuisines.
Remember not to litter anywhere even if you bring along eatables.
The garden requires a lot of exploring and it will be better if you are doing it in comfortable clothes and shoes that will make your walking tour hassle-free.
Do not forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful colourful sightings of the flowers.
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