A National Day Stroll Through Singapore Botanic Gardens with Edmund

 Singapore - Singapore celebrated its 59th National Day on August 9, 2024, and I couldn’t think of a better way to honour the occasion than a walk through the iconic Singapore Botanic Gardens with my friend Edmund. This cherished green space, steeped in history and natural beauty, provided the perfect backdrop for a day of exploration, reflection, and celebration.

A Brief History of the Singapore Botanic Gardens

Established in 1859, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is a living testament to Singapore’s rich horticultural and botanical heritage. Its role in cultivating rubber trees for commercial use during the colonial era was instrumental in transforming Southeast Asia into a hub for rubber production. Today, it stands as a symbol of Singapore’s commitment to conservation and education. In 2015, the Gardens earned the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, making it the first and only tropical botanic garden to receive this honour.

National Day brought a lively energy to the Gardens, with families, friends, and nature enthusiasts gathered to enjoy the special occasion. The air was filled with patriotic melodies, laughter, and the chatter of visitors marvelling at the vibrant flora. Edmund and I were eager to explore the Gardens, particularly as the National Orchid Garden—a jewel within this UNESCO site—was open to the public for free on this day.

Stepping into the National Orchid Garden felt like entering a vibrant tapestry of colours and fragrances. Home to over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids, the garden showcases Singapore’s dedication to orchid cultivation and hybridisation.

We admired the “Vanda Miss Joaquim,” Singapore’s national flower, along with other stunning orchids arranged in meticulously curated displays. The garden’s layout, with its cascading terraces and themed zones, provided an immersive experience that left us in awe of nature’s artistry.

We ventured into a lesser-known part of the Gardens—the NUS Law Faculty located at the Bukit Timah Campus. This historic site, nestled within the lush greenery of the Gardens, once housed the University of Malaya and later became the National University of Singapore’s campus. The colonial-style architecture, with its grand facades and verdant surroundings, evoked a sense of timelessness.

The well-maintained paths, picturesque lakes, and diverse plant life offered a serene escape from the urban hustle, while the festive spirit of National Day added a unique touch to our experience.

The Singapore Botanic Gardens is more than just a park—it’s a living museum, a source of national pride, and a sanctuary for all who visit.