Located in the small village of Candikuning not far from Danau Bratan is the Bali Botanical Gardens, its full name being Kebun Raya Eka Karya Bali. A short walk from the nearby Bukit Mungsu Markets, you really cannot miss the entrance as you will see a giant corn-on-the-cob statue marking the way.
Without a doubt this is one of the most stunningly beautiful attractions Bali has to offer visitors. The Botanical Gardens are located on the slopes of Gunung Pohon, or Tree Mountain giving it a surreal atmosphere. Although only a square kilometre in area I estimate you would need three days to explore this Botanist’s utopia. Originally built in 1959 the Bali Botanical Gardens has over 800 different species of trees from around the world. Also, there are over 400 species of Orchids to be found and many in full bloom.
Walking through this fairytale square kilometre is amazing. There are even a few Eucalypt trees from Australia and several Giant Tree Ferns form New Zealand. A majority of the trees and plants are labelled with their Latin name, under this in English and country of origin.
There are more than 700 different species of trees from around the world in the park and each tree has a plaque at its base telling you of its origin and name species. The gardens cover an area of approximately one square kilometre on the slopes of Gunung Pohon. You can drive through the park on the well-paved roads but to truly enjoy the beauty of these fabulous gardens, I would suggest parking and strolling around. The park is also a great place for birdwatchers as many species are found here.
On the site of the park there are 3 temples, Pura Teratai Bang, Pura Giri Putri and Pura Batumeringgit. There is also a library and herbarium for studying the plants of the area. A guide booklet is sold at the entrance to the park. It contains details of 6 guided walks you can take. There is guide information about the 100 bird species here and walking around with a Balinese guide, you will learn about the plants used in traditional Balinese rituals and ceremonies.
Bali Botanical Gardens is open daily from 8am-4pm
