Founded by the Dutch in 1817, these are among the most renowned botanic gardens in Southeast Asia, known to specialists the world over. The size of the collections (15 000 plant species, 5 000 types of orchid) reflects the conservation and research role the gardens have played ever since they opened. It even introduced several species into the archipelago in the 19C. Palm trees, bamboos, giant trees with tentacular roots, delicate orchids, sprawling ferns… botanist or not, you will find the walk exquisite.