Exploring Eka Karya Botanical Garden: An Educational and Recreational Destination for Bali's Flora Diversity
The Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden, established in 1959 in Bedugul, is Indonesia's first post-independence botanical garden. Covering 157.5 hectares at 1,250-1,450 meters altitude, it houses over 2,400 plant species, including orchids and cacti. Featuring trekking trails, picnic areas, and educational facilities, the garden serves as a hub for conservation, research, and recreation. It also hosts special events and Hindu ceremonies at the sacred Pura Terate Bang, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Bali, the exotic island known for its beaches and culture, also boasts a hidden gem that offers an extraordinary educational and recreational experience—the Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden. This garden was officially opened on July 15, 1959. Located at an altitude of 1,250-1,450 meters above sea level in the Bedugul area, Eka Karya Botanical Garden is a paradise for nature and plant enthusiasts.
Picture of Cactus Green House (Source: Private Collection)
Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden, established in 1959, is one of four botanical gardens in Indonesia and the first to be founded after independence. Spanning 157.5 hectares, this botanical garden is home to over 2,400 species of plants. Here, visitors can explore a wide variety of plant collections, from exotic orchids to unique cacti. Every corner of the garden offers breathtaking and rare plant beauty. The plant collections in the garden are categorized into two groups: general plant collections, where plants are grouped based on their family relationships, and thematic plants, which are specially cultivated for their particular benefits and habitats. The thematic collections include the Orchid Garden, Cactus Garden, Usada Garden, Begonia Garden, and the Panca Yadnya Garden.
Picture of Usadha Garden (Source: Private Collection)
Gardens like the Usada and Panca Yadnya are culture-based collections. The Usada Garden focuses on traditional Balinese medicine, while the Panca Yadnya Garden houses plants used in creating offerings for Yadnya ceremonies. Panca Yadnya Garden has a unique spatial concept based on the Tri Mandala principle (Utama Mandala, Madia Mandala, and Nista Mandala). In Utama Mandala, a Bajra or Bell is constructed as a place for documenting local wisdom and ceremonies rich in conservation education. Madia Mandala is designed as an open space for cultural and artistic performances, while Nista Mandala is dedicated to plant conservation, particularly those used for Yadnya ceremonies. Thus, Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden not only serves as a conservation site but also holds a deep cultural significance.
Picture of Green Field (Source: Private Collection)
In addition to its natural beauty, Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden, as a Plant Conservation Center, also offers various educational facilities. There is an information center that provides in-depth insights into different plant species and their crucial roles in the ecosystem. Furthermore, this garden often serves as a site for scientific research and environmental education.
For recreation, visitors can enjoy various tracking trails that lead through cool and calming tropical forests. Picnic areas provide a perfect spot for relaxing with family. Children can play while learning about various plant species and the natural environment.
Picture of Tropical Forest Track (Source: Private Collection)
Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden plays an essential role in plant conservation. Many endangered species are collected and protected here. Additionally, the garden is a center for botanical research, where scientists study flora and work on ways to preserve biodiversity.
Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden not only offers beauty and education but also hosts special events like flower festivals and plant exhibitions. These events give visitors the chance to learn more about the flora of Bali and enjoy a variety of engaging activities. Today, Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden has undergone significant innovations. In addition to being a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors, it is also a place for conducting religious ceremonies, particularly for Hindus, as the garden is home to the sacred Terate Bang Temple.
Picture of Terate Bang Temple (Source: Private Collection)
Exploring Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden is an experience that combines education, conservation, and recreation. With its stunning diversity of flora, rich educational facilities, and peaceful natural atmosphere, this botanical garden is a must-visit destination for anyone wishing to understand and enjoy the natural beauty of Bali. So, get your camera ready and embark on an unforgettable flora adventure at Eka Karya Bali Botanical Garden.
