Discover Singapore's Butterfly Garden
Once you step through those clinking metal chains into Changi Airport’s Butterfly Garden, your senses will be overcome with the fluttering of wings, the scent of flowers, and the vibrant patterns of those little papery creatures. In true Singapore fashion – a country determined to signal its wealth and prosperity at every opportunity – the Butterfly Garden is the first tropical butterfly habitat inside an airport. And once inside, you’d be forgiven for temporarily forgetting that you're in the midst of a major transportation hub.
As well as over 1,000 butterflies, from 40 species, there is an abundance of flowering plants and a 20 ft waterfall with a small koi pond below. So next time you’re wondering how to while your time away at the airport, keep your book in your bag, your wallet out of duty free, and head to the Butterfly Garden instead.
Creating the Butterfly Garden
Singapore Airport is renowned for its stunning and creative themed gardens, from the Enchanted Garden to the Water Lily Garden. The delightful butterfly exhibit was first opened in 2008 and has since become one of the airport's most popular features, alongside the enormous waterfall, Jewel.
The Butterfly Garden's design is inspired by Singapore's status as a tropical paradise. The lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, and gentle streams create an environment that mirrors the natural habitats of the region. It's true, even in the busiest areas of Singapore there is always a mass of sprawling greenery or random water feature sprinkled in amongst the concrete, temples, and skyscrapers.
Butterflies of the World
Amidst the carefully landscaped flora of the garden, the colourful plants and sweet pineapple triangles attract the resident butterflies, making it a paradise for both local and exotic species. By strategically placing the juicy fruit at the feeding stations visitors can observe the butterflies’ feeding habits and interactions with each other up close and personal.
Species in the garden include the Leopard Lacewing (Cethosia cyane), Blue Clipper (Parthenos sylvia) and even Singapore’s national butterfly the Common Rose (Pachliopta aristolochiae). With their flitting motions, vibrant colours, and intricate patterns, each of these delicate creatures is a living work of art and a marvel to watch.
Whilst visiting the garden, be sure to watch out for the large case on the ground floor where you can see dozens of butterflies hanging peacefully in metamorphosis. We know it goes without saying but throughout the garden be sure to ‘look, don’t touch’!
Education on Butterflies
Even though the butterflies are captivating and make for endless photo opportunities, the Butterfly Garden at Changi Airport is so much more than just a place to view butterflies. It's also an opportunity to learn and appreciate the delicate ecosystems that support these winged wonders. Educational signs and enclosures throughout the garden provide information about the life cycles of butterflies, their ecological importance, and their role in pollination.
Our Thoughts…
The Butterfly Garden at Changi Airport is more than just a tourist attraction; it represents Singapore's commitment to sustainability, biodiversity, and the coexistence of nature within an urban landscape. And serves as a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, we can find beauty, wonder, and a means of reconnecting with the natural world.
So, the next time you find yourself in transit at the terminal 3 building of Changi Airport, take a detour to the Butterfly Garden. Whether you're a butterfly enthusiast, a photographer, or simply a weary traveller in need of a few moments of peace, this enchanting haven is bound to leave you with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the delicate and beautiful world of butterflies.
Want to learn more about Singapore and see some of it's secret & hidden sights? Check out our Singapore Scavenger Hunts, puzzle-filled urban adventures lead you through city highlights and best-kept secrets.
