Botanical and public gardens offer people a rejuvenating setting to appreciate the wonders of nature. It can be very healing, both physically and mentally, to stroll through the flower trails and stunning displays of myriad vegetation. Through extensive collections of plants and flowers, these public gardens provide an insight into the history and culture of a place and the significance these magnificent species have on our planet.
Here are some breathtaking man-made gardens around the world.
Since it first opened nearly nine years ago, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has blossomed into one of the region&rsquos most gorgeous destinations, with more than 150 million flowers on display. Known as the world&rsquos largest natural flower garden, the location is somewhat like utopia for those seeking the charm of nature in the city. Using a drip irrigation system, the flowers are kept fresh by reusing treated wastewater. They have a variety of attractions that you may enjoy with friends and family, which include a butterfly garden, 3D floral designs, a Smurfs village, a lake park, an umbrella tunnel, floral villas and much more. Make sure you plan your trip between October to April, as the garden is closed in other months.
Address Street 3, Al Barshaa, Al Barsha South, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Artist Edward James built a collection of Las Pozas (or the Pools) in the Sierra Gorda highlands of Mexico, more than 2,000 feet above sea level in a subtropical rainforest. The structures and routes make up a garden with natural lakes and waterfalls surrounded by arching concrete sculptures. Adding more fun to the experience, you can even swim in the pool under the waterfalls. Started as a horticulture ground full of orchids, this was turned into a garden filled with artificial structures resembling various details of flowers. The idea was to find a private space that James could use. Upon his death, Las Pozas was made accessible to the public.
Address Camino Paseo Las Pozas s/n, Barrio La Conchita, 79902 Xilitla, S.L.P., Mexico
Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse, Netherlands
This estate displays spring-flowering bulbs developed in 1949 by a group of 20 prominent growers and exporters, marking it as a spring park. When the park&rsquos gates opened to the public in 1950, it quickly became a huge hit. One of the world&rsquos biggest flower gardens, Keukenhof is sometimes referred to as the Garden of Europe. The Keukenhof Park stands at a total of 32 hectares. Every year, about 7 million flower bulbs are planted here. Tulips are the most famous flower in Keukenhof, alongside many other blooms, such as hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, carnations, and irises. The garden is open to the general public for the popular 8-week tulip display from mid-March to mid-May, with peak viewing arriving near mid-April, depending on the weather conditions. However, its premises stay open all year for private events and festivals.
Address Stationsweg 166A, 2161 AM Lisse, Netherlands
Monet&rsquos Gardens, Giverny, France
Without the famous painter Claude Monet&rsquos arrival in the town in 1883, the garden wouldn&rsquot be a home of flora wonder today. It has been divided into flowerbeds, where flower clusters peeking at different markers add to the floral bulk. You get to see some of the most beautiful ranges of hollyhocks, and climbing roses, with fresh fruit and decked-up trees. Look out for the iconic Japanese bridge, and the weeping willows, bamboo wood, and the gorgeous nympheas that bloom all summer long. In summers, you can find roses, clematis, salvias, and sunflowers across the garden. With autumn, dahlias pop up with rudbeckias and asters around a stretch of nasturtians. It is open from April to November and closes during winter months.
Address Claude Monet&rsquos Garden, 27620, Giverny, France
Singapore Botanical Gardens, Singapore
The only tropical botanical garden mentioned in UNESCO&rsquos World Heritage List, Singapore Botanic Gardens was founded in 1859 and played a major role in the region&rsquos rubber trade expansion. The gardens are home to various historically significant floristic and horticultural elements and a magnificent plant collection. They host exhibitions, educational tours, performances, and festivals at the venue as well. Its 82 hectares are stretched vertically, covering more than 10,000 plant varieties. The biggest charm of the Botanic Gardens is the National Orchid Garden. Other attractions that can be explored here are &ndash Burkill Hall, VIP Orchid Garden, Orchidarium, Tan Hoon Siang Misthouse, Lady Yuen-Peng McNeice Bromeliad House, Coolhouse, Rainforest, and Ginger Garden, amongst others. You can visit the mystic haven anytime all year round.
Address 1 Cluny Rd, 259569, Singapore
Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, Tokyo
This is one of the oldest parks in Tokyo and undoubtedly the best in the country. Koishikawa Korakuen was built in the early Edo era and is one of only three Daimyo gardens that still stand from that era. In the presence of ponds, rocks, trees, and artificial hills, this garden seeks to recreate well-known landscapes in a miniature setting. It is a peaceful natural retreat away from the loud city life. You can come here anytime, but try to plan a visit around late November to enjoy the effect of fall on this nature&rsquos turf. April kicks in with a full-bloom cherry blossom, adding beauty to the sight.
Address 1 Chome-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo, 112-0004, Japan