Joanna James
Often referred to as the Garden City of Asia, it's little wonder than Singapore is home to some of the region's finest horticultural hubs. From roof gardens to more traditional green spaces, here's a rundown of the Lion City's must-visit gardens and parks.
Located in the bustling City Hall area, Sang Nila Utama Garden is arguably the most atmospheric of Singapore's colonial period gardens. Containing everything from freshwater springs to ancient graves, it is also one of the most peaceful botanical venues in the city. Named after Sang Nila Utama, a Palembang prince, the entrance to the gardens features classic split gates of the Javanese tradition. The Forbidden Spring is not the only attraction at Sang Nila Utama where the Farquhar Garden is also found. Boasting large plants which are called ‘living paintings’ these blooms represent the flora hailing from the Malay Peninsula.
As a veritable cultural icon, a visit to Singapore would not be complete without a stopover at the majestic Gardens by the Bay. While it may be a futuristic horticultural and botanical heartland, the Gardens by the Bay exude all the charm of a conventional garden heightened to a truly impressive level. Apart from the Supertree Observatory, the main points of interest inside the Gardens by the Bay include the Flower Dome and the Cloud Forest while the Floral Fantasy display alternates depending on the seasons and showcases blooms from all corners of the globe.
Occupying pride of place in Tanglin, the Singapore Botanic Gardens holds the distinct honour of being the only Singaporean garden space to have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. With a whopping ten thousand plant species on show, the main attraction for most locals and tourists is the National Orchid Garden which happens to host the largest collection of orchids on the planet. This also includes Singapore, national flower, Vanda Miss Joaquim. In addition to admiring the floral heritage of the gardens, visitors can also relax by Swan Lake or head to the Jacob Ballas Children's Garden with their tiny tots.
Easily accessible to visitors based at Grand Park City Hall or any other City Hall hotel in Singapore, the Edible Garden City is a groundbreaking initiative in not only gardening but sustainable farming. Growing more than 50 fruits and vegetable varieties, this is one of the few urban farming gardens that are open to visitors.
Called Singapore's most expansive natural wonderland, Jurong Lake Gardens is a relatively new addition to Singapore's national gardens. Spread out across a staggering 90 hectares, the massive garden is divided into Japanese gardens, Chinese Gardens, the Lakeside Garden and a Garden Promenade. The pink tree and the venue's fruit trees and orchid collections are some features visitors can look forward to witnessing during a tour. The landscaped lawns and community areas of the parkland are also ideal for picnics.
Located on the rooftop of Orchard Central Shopping Mall, this idyllic little patch of green is the perfect break area for those who love panoramic views. Providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle below, this picturesque garden also features Yayoi Kusama sculptures.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
