Bedugul is a cool mountain area in Bali. Located about two hours drive from the Ngurah Rai International Airport. Bedugul has many beautiful tourism objects and facilities; even you will see beautiful sights along your journey to this location. Trekking is a must activity that you should do along botanic garden. The Eka Karya Botanical Garden (the only botanical garden in Bali) located in Bedugul area.
Bali Botanic Garden – story
In 1958, senior Balinese officials took a significant step toward environmental and cultural preservation. As a result, they approached the department—now known as the Centre for Biological Research. Their proposal emphasized the establishment of a botanic garden to serve both scientific and recreational purposes. Bali Botanic Garden officially opened its doors on July 15, 1959. Nestled on the lush slopes of Tapak Hill in Candikuning Village, at an elevation of 1,250 to 1,400 meters above sea level. Bali Botanic Garden then named as Kebun Raya “Eka Karya” Bali. The name Eka Karya highlights its historic role as the first botanical garden founded in Indonesia after independence.
Initially established to highlight rare conifer species, Bali Botanic Garden reflected Indonesia’s botanical diversity vision. Over time, it grew into more than a plant sanctuary—it became a serene natural escape. Today, it remains a peaceful retreat for families and travelers seeking calm in Bali’s highlands. Moreover, it has evolved into a premier destination for cultural enrichment and educational exploration.
However, development came to a halt around 1965 due to the insecurity of the period. Starting in the early 1970s, Bali Botanic Garden underwent gradual rehabilitation. By April 30, 1975, the restoration was complete, and the garden’s area had expanded to 129.2 hectares, marking a new chapter in its development as a leading botanical destination in Indonesia. The functions broadened from primarily a collection of conifers to include ex-situ conservation of plants from high altitude of eastern Indonesia.
As at 1998, the Bali Botanic Garden covered an area of 154.5 Ha, and in 2001 the area was increased again to become 157.5 Ha. Some of the special collections include: orchids, ceremonial plants, medicinal plants, cactus, ferns, aquatic plants and trees.
The four main functions of Bali Botanic Garden are: exploration, inventory and research; conservation; recreation; and education. The institution offers a number of scientific services and facilities in support of plant research and conservation, including herbarium, seed bank, library, glasshouses, nursery, and plant database.