About National Orchid Garden
The National Orchid Garden is a 3-hectare garden located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens in Tanglin, Singapore. Opened in 1995 on the highest hill of the Botanic Gardens, it displays over 1,000 orchid species and 2,000 hybrids. Renowned for its landscaped collections, VIP Orchid Garden and heritage Burkill Hall, it showcases Singapore's national flower Vanda Miss Joaquim and is a major attraction within the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Botanic Gardens.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a landscaped hillside garden within the Singapore Botanic Gardens featuring four colour-themed zones, shaded walkways, water features and display houses. Highlights include the Burkill Hall heritage building, VIP Orchid Garden with orchids named after visiting dignitaries, Tan Hoon Siang Mist House, Cool House with highland orchids, and extensive outdoor displays of hybrids and species. Paths are paved with seating areas, interpretive signage and photo spots throughout.
Key highlights
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Located on the highest hill in the Singapore Botanic Gardens with over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids on display
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VIP Orchid Garden featuring orchid hybrids named after heads of state and dignitaries
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Burkill Hall - a restored colonial bungalow built in 1868
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Tan Hoon Siang Mist House and Sembcorp Cool House showcasing rare and highland orchids
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Four colour zones - Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter - with themed landscaping
History of National Orchid Garden
Developed by orchid expert Eric Holttum and opened on 20 October 1995 by then Senior Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Sited on the highest hill of the Singapore Botanic Gardens, it builds on the Gardens' orchid breeding programme dating to the 1920s. Burkill Hall within the garden dates to 1868. The Singapore Botanic Gardens, including the National Orchid Garden, was inscribed as Singapore's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.
Culture & Context
Showcases Singapore's national flower Vanda Miss Joaquim and the nation's orchid heritage. The VIP Orchid Garden honours visiting dignitaries with named hybrids, reflecting orchid diplomacy. The garden represents Singapore's identity as a Garden City and its horticultural excellence.