Photo: Mark / GFDL
Nestled in the cool highlands of Bedugul at an elevation of 1,250 metres, the Bali Botanical Garden (Kebun Raya Bali) is a sprawling 157-hectare sanctuary that showcases the extraordinary diversity of Indonesia's flora. As part of the global network of botanical gardens, it offers a serene escape from the coastal heat, with misty mornings, towering trees, and manicured lawns against the backdrop of the twin lakes and Mount Batukaru. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a keen photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful walk amid nature, this garden delivers a refreshingly different side of Bali.
Highlights & What to See
- Orchid House: Home to hundreds of native and hybrid orchids, including the rare black orchid, this glasshouse is a riot of colour and delicate fragrance.
- Bali Traditional Plants Section: Discover plants used in Balinese ceremonies, medicine, and daily life, with informative labels that reveal their cultural significance.
- Cactus & Succulent Garden: A sun-drenched terraced garden featuring sculptural cacti and succulents from arid regions worldwide.
- Tree Fern Walk: Stroll along a boardwalk through a prehistoric-looking grove of giant tree ferns, enveloped in cool mist.
- Pancoran Solas (Sun Clock): A unique sundial surrounded by a circular garden, offering panoramic views over Lake Beratan and the surrounding mountains.
- Bukit Sari Temple (Pura Bukit Sari): A small, atmospheric Hindu temple within the grounds, often draped in moss and surrounded by ancient trees.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allocate at least half a day (3–4 hours) to explore the garden at a leisurely pace. The cool climate makes it perfect for a morning visit, followed by lunch at one of the on-site cafés or a picnic by the lake. If you're a keen botanist or hiker, you could easily spend a full day wandering the extensive trails, including the path that leads to the summit of Gunung Pohen. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Ulun Danu Beratan Temple for a full Bedugul experience.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple – The iconic lakeside temple on Lake Beratan, just a 10-minute drive away.
- Lake Buyan & Lake Tamblingan – Twin caldera lakes surrounded by jungle, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – A UNESCO World Heritage site of stunning stepped rice paddies, about 45 minutes south.
- Munduk Village – A charming hill station with waterfalls, coffee plantations, and panoramic valley views.
- Bedugul Market – A bustling local market selling fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs, perfect for a quick browse.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.