The Singapore Botanic Gardens Heritage Museum has reopened its doors to the public, offering an enriching experience that showcases the city-state’s rich green history. With new exhibits and installations, the museum invites visitors to delve into the Gardens’ contributions to Singapore’s environmental, social, and economic development. This article explores the highlights of the museum’s reopening and the immersive activities available to visitors during the Gardens’ annual heritage festival.
Rediscovering Singapore’s Green Legacy
As visitors step into the 240 sq m Heritage Museum at Holttum Hall, they embark on a journey through Singapore’s botanical heritage. The exhibits feature significant milestones, such as the Gardens’ designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015 and the completion of the Tyersall-Gallop Core in 2022, an 18ha addition to the Gardens. These showcases pay homage to the pioneers who laid the foundation for the Gardens’ success as a leading institution for tropical botany and a beloved green space cherished by Singaporeans.
Exploring Six Zones of Development
The Heritage Museum’s exhibits are thoughtfully divided into six zones, spread across two levels. Each zone represents a distinct stage in the Gardens’ evolution, tracing its origins, transformation into a botanical institution, resilience during war years and the post-independence period, significant contributions to Singapore’s greening efforts, and its current state as a world-class botanical haven. Visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of the Gardens’ growth and its pivotal role in shaping Singapore’s landscape.
Night Heritage Tour and Unique Wildlife Encounters
As part of the heritage festival, the National Parks Board (NParks) introduces a captivating night heritage tour, allowing visitors to explore the Gardens’ enchanting beauty after dark. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to witness nocturnal animals, including the elusive nightjars, four-lined tree frogs, and fascinating fruit bats. The tour adds an element of excitement and unveils a different side of the Gardens’ ecosystem.
Festival Activities and Free Shuttle Services
In conjunction with the heritage festival, visitors can enjoy a variety of guided tours and engaging activities that delve deeper into Singapore’s green heritage. To enhance accessibility, NParks provides free shuttle bus services between the Botany Centre at Singapore Botanic Gardens and Fort Canning Centre at Fort Canning Park during the festival. This allows attendees to seamlessly explore both locations and fully immerse themselves in the festivities.
The reopening of the Singapore Botanic Gardens Heritage Museum presents a remarkable opportunity for visitors to delve into the city-state’s green history. With its new exhibits and immersive experiences, the museum celebrates the Gardens’ influential role in Singapore’s development and its ongoing commitment to tropical botany. By preserving the past and embracing the future, the Gardens continue to inspire visitors and reinforce the importance of nature conservation in Singapore. Also learn about Discovering Singapore’s Green Oasis: Exploring the City-State’s Impressive Parks and Gardens.
