Cloud Forest - Singapore

The Cloud Forest Dome, housed in Gardens by the Bay is a greenhouse-like structure, re-creating the tropical montane climate found between 1500m and 3000m. The centrepiece attraction of this conservatory is a 35m high mountain with the world's tallest indoor waterfall.

Photo by Digby Cheung on Unsplash

Cloud forest welcomes its visitors to take a tour through the forest and explore its mind-blowing beauty through 9 different mist-filled levels: Lost World, Cloud Walk, The Cavern, Waterfall View, Crystal Mountain, Tree Top Walk, Secret Garden, Cloud Forest Gallery, and Cloud Forest Theatre. All these levels abound in beauty and magnificence alike and have their awe-inspiring charm. Once here, take a walk and relish the escapade into a tropical rainforest in the middle of skyscrapers and grey buildings of a metro city. The temperature inside the Cloud Forest is regulated to vary between 23 to 25 degrees Celsius to allow the tropical plants from Montane (orchids, pitcher plants and ferns) to thrive and flourish.

Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay is one of Singapore’s most impressive attractions. This magnificent greenhouse-like glass dome can be seen from miles away and is just as stunning inside as it is from out. The large, climate-controlled dome has spiralling walkways and one of the world’s tallest indoor waterfalls that rains down from over 30 metres above.

As you enter the sealed doors, you’ll more likely need to reach for a jacket rather than a fan. The gush of air created by the enormous waterfall hits you first, and you’ll usually gasp in awe as soon as you step foot inside. Take the elevator up to the top to begin your descent on the ramps that wind down, circling in and out of the main central column.

The flowers and tropical vegetation changes as you make the descent, mimicking how it would at different altitudes. The moss-covered ‘lost world’ at the top has a lotus pond, and along the way, there’s a stalactites and stalagmites display, an educational theatre, and a plethora of lilies, orchids, pitcher plants, sunflowers, and tassel fern.

Cloud Forest Conservatory

Higher than the Flower Dome, the Cloud Forest is slightly smaller at 0.8 hectares (2.0 acres) where humidity is 80% – 90% and the temperature ranges from 23°C – 25°C. It is a gigantic biodome showcasing nine unique zones that recreates the environment and climate of a 7-story high mountaintop forest, replicating the cool moist conditions found in tropical highland regions between 1,000 metres (3,300 ft) and 3,000 metres (9,800 ft) above sea level, found in South-East Asia, Middle- and South America. The Cloud Mountain in the Cloud Forest allows the opportunity to discover the unique biodiversity and geology of cloud forests, and serves as one of the key highlights of Singapore’s leading horticulture-themed destination.

All the levels offer a different horticultural experience: At the entrance visitors receive a cool blast of air, and see the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, pouring down water and mist from 35 m (115 ft) above. Take the lift to the Lost World (the top of the mountaintop) to discover the unique biodiversity and geology of cloud forests, and then stroll along a walkway in the clouds for an aerial view of the canopy and mountainside below. Descending through the 122-metre long Cloud Walk and Treetop Walk, and half way down at Level 4, the Crystal Mountain Cave features a variety of stalactites, stalagmites and hollowed-out crystals. At the ground level, the stimulating and intriguing Secret Garden and Foothills overflow with luscious foliage, where art is intermixed within the ponds and plantings. Before exiting, enter Earth Check and see the +5 Degrees video, showing the effect that a 5° C or 9° F increase in temperature is expected to have on similar mountain-top environments due to climate change.

Developed with a proprietary Organic Wall System from Tropical Environment Pte Ltd to simulate a ‘living skin’ of a natural mountain, this 42 metre high world-renowned mountain at Gardens by the Bay’s Cloud Forest Conservatory presents a phenomenal collection of plants imported from various parts of the world – boasting numerous accolades and attracting millions of visitors every year. The estimated slope of Cloud Mountain is between 70-85% and is estimated to cover 4,000 square metres in vegetated surface area.

Special stringent tests were carried out on the mountain render two and a half years prior to its installation to establish its ability to support various plant life and its physical resilience to wear and tear. The criteria for the mountain skin entailed the construction of a structurally strong and sound green wall which would last for years to come without falling apart, with strong design considerations given to the implications of its constantly moist conditions. Guarantee and warranty of the proprietary system was provided to the client.

Densely planted with epiphytic plants, the mountain render sustains numerous species and varieties of orchids, ferns, bromeliads, begonias, anthuriums and pitcher plants that flourish in a resplendent display of majestic beauty.

With components spray applied via high pressure equipment, the mountain render forms a continuous layer that covers the entire outer surface of the concrete mountain lattice, as well as its inner roof surface, inner elevations and inside edges of all apertures. It is secured to the mountain lattice using a multi-component corrosion-resistant bonding layer, and is inclusive of comprehensive automated drip irrigation and drainage mechanisms. Its porous organic composition provides moisture retention and rooting zones for the epiphytes, with built-in pockets allowing planting zones for larger specimens. Tropical Environment Pte Ltd was responsible for the design and build of the mountain skin/green wall; construction of the irrigation system of the green wall; fixing of non-biodegradable securing devices; and plant installation.

Exploring Cloud Forest 

Lost World

Situated in the highest level of the mountain, the plants in the Lost World are typically those found in an elevation of around 2000 metres above the sea level. Mosses and ferns thrive here along with carnivorous plants such as Venus flytrap and Pitcher Plant. This area also provides a fantastic view of the Marina Bay waterfront.

Cloud Walk

The Cloud Walk is a cantilevered walkway from the Lost World to the world below it. This is the perfect place to have a close-up of the various Epiphytes growing on the extensive mountainside. Counted among their ranks are mosses and orchids, commonly found growing in the moist environments.

The Cavern

The descent from the Cloud Walk takes one into the Cavern which is an educational site for the visitors. One can get more information about the various cloud forests around the world and the different life forms found in them.

Waterfall View

The Cavern leads one to the back of the Waterfall. This is the coldest part of the conservatory where the visitors are prompted to consider the importance of freshwater in a rainforest, and learn how the epiphytes absorb water from the mist.

Crystal Mountain

In the Crystal Mountain, one is surrounded by various Stalactites and Stalagmites- a typical feature found in caves. Another educational section, this area helps one understand the geology of our planet, like how the continents were formed, and why fossils are essential as a means of rediscovering the earth's past.

Tree Top View

As the name suggests, Tree Top View is a walkway which takes its visitors closer to the canopy of trees for a mesmerising bird's eye view of the forest below.

Secret Garden

Secret Garden is a gentle ravine walk at the foot of the mountain through a narrow gorge that provides visitors with the opportunity to discover more than 7,000 plants of more than 135 species and hybrids in a representation of limestone forests and caves. Most of these plants were once abundant, but are now rare. There is also an instalment of tiny orchids only visible with a magnifying glass!

Cloud Forest Gallery

Enhanced with modular graphics, the Cloud Forest Gallery is an educational section where one can learn about the impact of population growth and the subsequent overuse of natural resources on the environment, and how these factors are causing the rapid extinction of species across the planet. Short films aimed towards the introduction of sustainable energy and environmental preservation are also shown here.

Cloud Forest Theatre

One can discover how the Gardens by the Bay were built with a carefully planned approach keeping the environment in mind. A short film with a strong message is shown in the auditorium as well. Named "+5 Degrees", this shows how climate change could affect the planet if the temperature increases by just around 5 degrees.

Free Guided Tour 

A free "Ask Me" guided tour is conducted of the selected areas of Cloud Forest Conservatory describing the fund and important facts about the plants on display. The tour lasts for 15 minutes and is conducted on a first-come-first-serve basis, as soon as a group of 5 or more visitors is assembled. 

The tour starts from the "Ask Me" poster at meeting point A (the waterfall) and the meeting point B (Tree Top Walk).

Cloud Forest Entry Fee 

Entry Fee varies, depending on whether one wants to purchase a single conservatory ticket or a double-entry which allows one to enter the Flower Dome which is located next door.

Singapore Resident Rate - One Conservatory

Adult: SGD 12

Senior Citizen (>60 years old): SGD 8

Child (3-12 years old): SGD 8

Singapore Resident Rate - Two Conservatories

Adult: SGD 20

Senior Citizen (>60 years old): SGD 15

Child (3-12 years old): SGD 12

Standard Rate - Two Conservatories

Adult/Senior: SGD 28

Child (3-12 years old): SGD 15

List of best places to eat at Gardens by the Bay:

1. Pollen: 

Pollen is a sophisticated and classy restaurant offering elegant fine dining experiences. Spread across two floors, this stunning restaurant by the very talented Chef Michael Wilson serves interactive contemporary cuisine.

On the first floor, guests can relish fine multi-course menus, while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Marina Bay waterfront and skyline. The restaurant has the capacity to accommodate a total of 60 gourmands at a single time.

2. Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant: 

Lying below the beautiful Flower Dome, Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant serves some of the classic recipes of Singapore. The prime highlights of this elegant restaurant include Black Pepper Crab, Chili Crab, and other experimental modern Chinese delicacies by the experienced and reputed Chef Yong Bing Ngen.

The Baked Rice with Seafood in Chef's Recipe Sauce and the signature "Kopi" Crab are perfect options to try for all occasions. Offering a seating capacity of 190 pax, Majestic Bay Seafood Restaurant is suitable for gatherings with friends and family.

3. McDonald's: 

The iconic McDonald's is the place where you can enjoy your all-time favourite tastes, while soaking in the mesmerizing views of the stunning golden supertrees. You can bond over the iconic Big Mac® or just unwind and sip your Mocha Frappe.

Whether you come here for breakfast or dinner, you will find amazing readily available options. You can take a delicious Egg McMuffin® for breakfast, savour a McSpicy® meal for lunch, and pick your favorite McWrap® for dinner.

4. Satay by the Bay: 

If you want to taste Singapore just like a local, head to Satay by the Bay, where you can savour some of the authentic delicious delicacies of the country. Satay by the Bay is the most ideal place to bond with your loved ones over flavourful local cuisine, while basking in the spellbinding views of the gorgeous waterfront.

The restaurant has the capacity to accommodate 200 pax for outdoor seating and 650 pax for indoor seating.

5. Fennel Cafe Active Garden: 

The Fennel Café Active Garden happens to be the perfect pitstop for the diet conscious and fitness freaks. Set along the stunning Waterfront Promenade, this place serves energy boosters and healthy and tasty snacks. With a seating capacity of 90 pax, this cozy, relaxed cafe is pet-friendly and lets you dine with your furry buddies. 

6. Cafe Crema: 

Cafe Crema is a cozy Italian cafe that serves amazing espresso-based drinks handcrafted skillfully and passionately as per the orders of the guests. Their coffee is made of 100 percent freshly roasted Arabica beans. The cafe also serves artisanal sandwiches, bread platter, salads, soups, pancakes, and excellent Japanese delights.

7. The Social Kitchen: 

The Social Kitchen works with its various partners to let guests enjoy tasteful food, while soaking in the spectacular views of the Supertree Observatory. You can enjoy delicious no-meat options from The Vegetarian Butcher like NOMEATBALL Tomato Pasta and Curry NOCHICKEN.

You can also relish some flavourful sweet delicacies from Boufe Café. Do not forget to order specialty drinks from The Chambers by Cask and The Ginger Pantry.

Places to Visit near Gardens by the Bay 

Not just the Gardens by the Bay, but also places near it are a wonderful attraction for the visitors. Let us know some of the exquisite ones:

1. Marina Bay Sands: 

With tickets, you may enter this place and enjoy the massive architecture that is bound to dazzle you. So now you can click the same pictures that urged you to be here. The pictures at this place come out so beautiful that the visit is absolutely worthwhile.

There are a host of activities to do which you may not want to miss: the Marina Bay Sands Skypark, the Art Science Museum, Singapore Flyer, Spectra light show, and the Casino if you enjoy the nightlife in Singapore. Amuse yourself to the fullest and go home enthusiastic to be back again.

2. Merlion: 

A classic statue of half lion and half fish is a place where perhaps everyone who has visited Singapore has a picture with. The statue is a fountain too depicting how Singapore rose from being a fishing village to current urban Singapore.

The name Singapore is taken from the original name ‘Singapura’, meaning Lion City. Around this place is a Merlion park where you can click some flawless pictures.

3. Kent Ridge Park: 

See nature in its native form at this amazing place that is nestled between Singapore Science Park and the National University of Singapore. This park is a popular place for bird watchers, ecological tourists and for the ones who seek peace. The ambiance is so quaint that it becomes one the best retreat from urban life.

4. Sands Theatre: 

Nostalgia would set in when you hear a sublime tribute to none other than ABBA. There is much more in store for you than this. You can enjoy music and entertainment extravaganza at this amazing theatre that is about 10 minutes away from the Gardens by the Bay. Various shows for kids and elders continue taking place one after the other. 

5. SpringLeaf Nature Park: 

If you ever wondered where the place that has roads amidst tall trees exists, it is here in Singapore. Begin your walking expedition here as this is a tailor-made path with ideal romantic settings. When with kids, you can freely walk with them and enjoy the trees around. This place was earlier a village which is now nature’s walk amidst various species of plants.

Best Hotels to stay near Gardens by the Bay

Ritz Carlton, Millennia – 

It is one of the best options for visitors who love a lavish sophisticated stay. Apart from the Merlion Park, the hotel is close to several other wonderful sightseeing options. The decor of the rooms spells luxury with ultra-stylish interiors and amenities that will make you comfortable. 

Fullerton Hotel Singapore – 

The neo grand classical landmark of Singapore, the hotel offers diverse accommodation options, Rolls Royce Privilege, a lifestyle package and the assurance of an opulence stay. There are a lot of local attractions close by and its tour will be arranged by the efficient staff in the Hotel. 

Marina Bay Sands – 

One of the most popular and iconic hotels of Singapore, the sprawling hotel features 2561 rooms with a host of entertainment options like gambling, sampan rides and ice-skating. The prime attraction of this location is its rooftop infinity pool which is considered as the world’s largest infinity pool.

Pan Pacific -

Located in the Central district of Singapore, explore this towering luxury with world class amenities and signature dishes served exclusively at the comforts of the hotel. This 5 star property offers dynamic views of Singapore and is located close to the best sites in Singapore especially the Marina Bay.

The Westin – 

Located in the vicinity of Marina Bay, plan your stay at the Westin to experience bliss and peace. Great location with great food at the in-house restaurant is some of the added attractions of this wonderful hotel.

Fairmont – 

Located in the heart of Singapore, this upscale accommodation has 769 ultra-luxurious rooms and suites featuring comfortable style and international designs adorning the room. The spa at the Hotel has several treatment options available and also is Asia's largest Spa.

Tips

• The temperature is maintained at 23-25 degrees Celsius, but it gets freezing because of the mist from the waterfall. Recommended to carry a jumper.

• Buying tickets from the official website Gardens by the Bay seems advantageous as the queues may be long sometimes.

• Don't worry about walking all the way to the top. Take the elevator and go straight up to the sixth floor to reach the Lost World.