A Bali botanical garden is more than just a green space, it’s a living sanctuary where diverse plant species are carefully grown, preserved, and displayed. Unlike regular parks, botanical gardens play an important role in conservation, research, education, and peaceful recreation.
One of the most well-known examples is the Bedugul Botanical Garden, located in the cool highlands of Bali. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Bedugul Botanical Garden so special and why it’s the perfect escape if you’re craving fresh air, cooler weather, and a refreshing nature experience in Bali.
What is Bali Botanical Garden?
Bali Botanic Garden is the largest botanical garden in Indonesia, located in the cool highland area of Bedugul, Tabanan. It is more than a scenic park, serving as a center for plant conservation, research, education, and a refreshing nature escape.
The garden features a rich collection of plants, including orchids, cacti, ferns, medicinal plants, and towering ancient trees. Sitting at around 1,250–1,450 meters above sea level, the air feels cool and fresh, a welcome contrast to Bali’s coastal heat.
Visitors often use the Bali botanical garden map to explore favorite spots like the begonia collection and viewpoints overlooking Lake Beratan. From relaxed family picnics and peaceful walks through themed gardens to capturing stunning Bali botanical garden photos, this green sanctuary offers a quiet break from Bali’s busy areas.
How to Get to Bali Botanical Garden
To arrive at Kebun Raya Bedugul is surprisingly easy, making it a popular stop on a Bali day trip. The garden sits along the main route linking South Bali and North Bali (Singaraja), so access is straightforward.
- By Private Vehicle (Car or Motorcycle)
This is the most flexible and recommended option.- From Denpasar, Kuta, or Seminyak, the drive takes around 1.5–2 hours (about 50–60 km) via the Denpasar–Bedugul road toward Singaraja.
- From Ubud, expect a 1–1.5 hour drive through Payangan or Baturiti.
- The road climbs uphill and curves through the mountains, so make sure your vehicle is in good shape. The good news is several new shortcuts help reduce traffic and make the journey smoother.
- By Public Transport or Shuttle
Public transport doesn’t stop right at the gate, but it’s still possible.- Take a bus or travel service from Denpasar to Singaraja and get off at Candikuning Market in Bedugul. From there, it’s a 10–15 minute walk or a quick ride on a local motorbike taxi to reach the entrance.
- Some tourist shuttles occasionally serve the Bedugul area, so checking updated routes and schedules is recommended.
- Rent a Car with a Driver
For the most relaxed experience, hiring a car with a driver is a great choice. Local drivers know the route well and often help turn your visit to Kebun Raya Eka Karya Bali into a full-day adventure, combining it with nearby highlights like Ulun Danu Beratan Temple or the Bedugul fruit market.
Bali Botanical Garden Entrance Fee and Practical Info
Planning a visit to the Bali Botanical Garden is quite easy once you know the ticket details. The botanical garden entrance fee depends on the day you visit—weekdays or weekends/national holidays.
Ticket Prices
- Domestic visitors
- Weekdays: IDR 15,500 – IDR 20,000
- Weekends & holidays: IDR 25,500 – IDR 30,000
- Foreign visitors (adults): IDR 75,000
- Foreign visitors (children): IDR 50,000
Parking Fees
Motorcycles cost around IDR 5,000–10,000, cars IDR 15,000–20,000, and buses about IDR 50,000.
Opening Hours
- Monday–Friday: 08.00–16.00 WITA
- Saturday, Sunday & public holidays: 08.00–17.00 WITA
Rental Facilities & Internal Transportation
Covering more than 157 hectares, the garden offers several rental options so you can explore comfortably, perfect for capturing beautiful Bali Botanical Garden photos without rushing.
- Golf cart (buggy): around IDR 200,000–250,000 per hour (up to 4 people)
- Bicycles (manual or electric): IDR 20,000–75,000 per hour, depending on the type
- E-scooters: around IDR 40,000–60,000 for 30 minutes
- Shuttle bus: around IDR 20,000–25,000 per person
Based on many Bali Botanical Garden reviews, these transport options make the visit more relaxed and enjoyable, especially if you want to see as much of the garden as possible without getting tired.
What to See and Do at Bali Botanical Garden
What to See at Bedugul Botanical Gardens
Exploring the Botanical Garden Bali in Bedugul feels like walking through several worlds in one place. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss when visiting Bedugul Bali:
- Cactus Greenhouse
Step into a sleek glass greenhouse filled with more than 100 cactus species from Africa, the Americas, and Europe. The clean, minimalist design makes this one of the most unique Bedugul attractions. - Orchid Garden
A favorite for nature lovers, this area showcases over 300 orchid species, both wild and hybrid, collected from different parts of Indonesia. Colorful, delicate, and surprisingly diverse. - Giant Ficus Tree
One of the most iconic spots in the garden. This massive tree is over 200 years old, with dramatic, twisting roots that feel straight out of a fairytale. It became even more famous after appearing in a K-pop music video, making it a popular photo stop. - Begonia Garden
Home to one of the largest begonia collections in the world, this garden stands out for its vibrant leaf colors and unusual shapes. It’s bright, cheerful, and very photogenic. - Bamboo Forest & Fern Garden
Walk through a cool bamboo forest and towering Cyathea ferns that recreate the atmosphere of a dense tropical rainforest. It’s quiet, shady, and perfect for slowing down and enjoying nature.
What to Do at Kebun Raya Bedugul
- Relax with a Family Picnic
Find your perfect spot on the expansive lawns, like the shady Ramayana Boulevard or near the unique Kumbakarna Laga Statue. Spread out a mat, unpack your snacks, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon in nature. - Explore with Ease on Wheels
The garden in Bali covers 157 hectares! To see more without tiring out, rent a bicycle, an electric bike, or a fun e-scooter. It’s a breezy, enjoyable way to cover ground and discover hidden corners, a perfect destination for a family-friendly Bali adventure. - Find the Perfect Viewpoint
For a truly breathtaking moment, take a short walk to the garden’s highest eastern point. You’ll be rewarded with a stunning, misty panoramic view of Lake Beratan, a perfect photo opportunity, and a serene spot to pause. - Add a Dash of Adventure
For thrill-seekers, the Bali Treetop Adventure Park lets you experience the canopy like never before. Zip through the air on a flying fox and tackle hanging obstacle courses high among the ancient trees.
Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips
When to Visit
- Morning is the sweet spot (8.00–11.00 WITA)
This is the best time to enjoy Kebun Raya Eka Karya. The air feels crisp, the sun is gentle, and chances of rain or heavy fog are much lower compared to later in the day. - Weekdays are calmer
Visiting from Monday to Friday gives you a quieter experience. Popular photo spots like the giant ficus tree or cactus greenhouse are easier to enjoy without crowds. Weekends tend to be lively with local families having picnics. - Dry season is more predictable (April–September)
These months usually bring clearer skies, but remember, Bedugul has its own microclimate. Even when coastal Bali is sunny, this area can still feel cloudy or lightly drizzly.
Weather Tips to Know Before You Go
- Dress a little warmer
Temperatures in Kebun Raya Eka Karya range between 16–22°C. It can feel chilly, especially when the wind picks up or fog rolls in. A light jacket or hoodie goes a long way. - Always be rain-ready
Rain can appear without warning. A compact umbrella or lightweight raincoat is a smart thing to carry, even on sunny mornings. - Watch out for afternoon fog
After around 2 PM, thick fog often settles in. If you’re driving, take it slow as visibility on Bedugul roads can drop quickly. - Choose proper footwear
Skip flip-flops if you plan to explore bamboo forests or fern gardens. Paths can get damp and slippery, so comfortable walking shoes are a safer choice.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
- Ulun Danu Beratan Temple
Just a 5–10 minute drive from the Botanical Gardens, this iconic lakeside temple is one of the most photographed spots in Bali. The temple appears to float on Lake Beratan, making it a must-see among cool places in Bali.
Stop by right after your garden visit to beat the afternoon mist, snap photos (yes, the one on the Rp50,000 note!), stroll the gardens, or take a short boat ride on the lake. - Candi Kuning Market
Sitting along the main road near the Botanical Gardens and Ulun Danu Temple, this lively local market is perfect for a quick stop. Browse fresh Bedugul strawberries, passion fruit, ornamental plants, and local handicrafts.
It’s one of the easiest things to do in Bedugul, don’t forget to bargain and try the strawberries straight from the farms. - Lake Tamblingan
About 20–30 minutes toward Munduk, Lake Tamblingan offers a quieter, more untouched vibe than Lake Beratan. Surrounded by forest and often wrapped in soft mist, it’s ideal for jungle walks, traditional sampan boat rides, and photography. If you love nature and calm scenery, this is a standout among cool places in Bali. - Jatiluwih Rice Terraces
Reachable in 45–60 minutes from Bedugul via scenic mountain roads, Jatiluwih showcases Bali’s most expansive rice terraces, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy an easy walk along the paddies while soaking in sweeping countryside views.
The road is narrow and winding, but the scenery makes the journey one of the most rewarding things to do in Bedugul and beyond.
Visitor Tips for a Better Experience
- Come Early for the Best Experience
Aim to arrive around 8:00–9:00 AM WITA. The air is still fresh, the atmosphere feels calm, and you can enjoy popular photo spots like the Giant Ficus Tree without crowds or long lines. - Dress for Cool, Unpredictable Weather
Bedugul’s temperature can change quickly, so wear comfy clothes and always bring a light jacket or flannel. Choose sneakers or sports shoes, as the garden is huge and the ground can be wet or grassy. Even on sunny days, short rain showers are common, so a small umbrella or raincoat is a smart idea. - Pack Picnic Essentials
Bring a waterproof mat since the grass is often damp. It’s also a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks, as food stalls inside the garden are limited and spread far apart. - Buy Tickets in Advance
Save time by purchasing tickets online through the official site (tiketkebunraya.id) before you go. This is especially helpful on weekends, when queues at the entrance can get long.
The Bali Botanical Garden is the perfect escape for anyone craving cool air, lush greenery, and a slower pace away from the coast. From scenic walks and family picnics to iconic spots like Lake Beratan and ancient trees, it offers a refreshing side of Bali that feels calm and grounding, make sure to explore it with Insight Bali, your go-to guide for discovering the best nature escapes and travel experiences across the island.
