Gardens by the Bay

Perhaps you are not as outgoing or sporty, maybe you’re just a little bit too attached to your air-conditioning, look no further, Gardens by the bay as got you covered. Established on 29th June 2012, this nature park spanning 101 hectares is home to more than 1.5 million plants, spanning over 5,000 species.

Fun fact: The garden was built on reclaim land in the central region of Singapore.

Not to mention it has a super unique feature known as the Supertrees! (there are 18 of them in total!) Each of these iconic metal trees are over 25meters tall, that’s the height of a 16-storey building! These synthetic trees are embedded with a planting panel that houses more than 158,000 different types of blooms from over 700 different species.

If you do head down for a visit spot the different 18 Supertrees scattered around the gardens. Source

Super Trees

Get a chance to marvel at these unique trees from down below, or for the more adventurous ones,  do take a walk along the 22 metre high walkway which spans 128 meters, connecting between two Supertrees. These Supertrees are not only pretty to look at but they have environmentally sustainable roles too! Some of the trees have solar panels to harvest sunlight, while others are linked up to the flower conservatories and act as air exhausts receptacles. 

Take a stroll on the 22 meter high OCBC skyway for a panoramic view of the gardens. Source

Also not to be missed is the mesmerising Garden Rhapsody show. These Supertrees come alive at 7.45pm and 8.pm daily. Be prepared to be dazzled by this phenomenal lights and sound performance as the Supertrees dance and prance along to the tune of orchestra symphonies. If you’re a StarWars fan, you’re in for a treat! The Garden Rhapsody performance from the 4th to 6th of May will be featuring the iconic StarWars soundtrack.  

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Housing its exotic flora and fauna in two large conservatories, there is much to be explored! Entrance fees for both of the conservatories are price at $28 per adult and $15 per child. It is a good way to beat the Singapore heat as these conservatories are cooled to a comfortable 23-25 degree celsius to replicate the conditions of the natural environment. For those of you who are afraid of the slight chill, do remember to pack a cardigan! 

So what can you look forward to?

Cloud Forest

Firstly the cloud forest is not to be missed. Upon entering you would feel a cool misty sensation dancing upon your skin, and be greeted by the 30 meters high waterfall, the tallest indoor waterfall in the world! This 0.8 hectare conservatory simulates the tropical highlands situated 2000 metres above sea level. Be greeted by lovely orchid blooms, pitcher plants as well as begonias embedded against the walls of the 35 meter tall mountain. The entire exhibit is shrouded in dense vegetation  and perfect for photo opportunities! Ascend the mountains through the treetop walk or the cloud walk and get a bird’s eye view of the vegetation down below. Not worry, there is a lift that takes you directly to the submit too (should you be too tired to make the short trip up!)

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Here are some highlights of the cloud forest!

Image created by blog author, all images obtained from Gardens by the bay official website: source

These are some images that I took on my recent trip to Gardens by the Bay!

The view from the cloud walk. Source: Image captured by blog author, Isabelle LimView from the treetop walk. Source: Image captured by blog author, Isabelle Lim
‘The Lost world’ featuring carnivorous plant species. Source: Image captured by blog author, Isabelle Lim

 

Flower Dome

Spring is here! This conservatory mimics the cool and dry Mediterranean climate and features plants from the Mediterranean, Australia, South America and South Africa. This exhibit spans 1.2 hectares and houses more than 30,000 plants of over 150 species. Journey across a world as you explore the 9 different gardens featuring different plant species. Some of the highlights not to be missed would be the African Baobab tree (Largest tree in the conservatory!) and the 1000 year old Olive tree in the olive grove! Go up close and personal with the money puzzle tree (Araucaria Arancana) from Chile, roam through the desserts and get a glimpse of numerous Cacti plants and get acquainted with the ‘Fynbos’ plants with their needle like leaves in the South African garden. With the ever changing display of flowers and plants, there’s lots of laughter and fun for everyone!

Image created by blog author, all images obtained from Gardens by the bay official website: source

Ever so often there will be special floral exhibits held in the conservatory. Right now, from 12 April to 20 May is ‘Tulipmania’! An exhibit featuring over 9000 tulips, from 35 different species will transport you right to the Netherlands as you take a scenic stroll through the countryside. 

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Learn from about a tulips life cycle and get a glimpse of the ‘Singapura’ tulip. A special breed featuring vibrant red and white to commemorate the anniversary of our nation’s founding.

Image taken by blog author, Isabelle Lim.