Kuching Hidden Gems - Pitcher Plant and Wild Orchid Garden at Kota Padawan

At the 10th Mile Bazaar - or officially Kota Padawan, there is a little known public garden - the Pitcher Plant and Wild Orchid Garden which is tucked away at the end of the old town. If you don't look out for it you are bound to whisk past without even noticing it's presence. The garden is run by the Padawan Municipal Council. It is open to the public, but you do need to pay a small fee to get in.

The garden is not that big, but it has an impressive collection of pitcher plants and wild orchids. Besides going into the jungles, this is probably the only place you will get to see pitcher plants in Kuching. 

Pitcher plants are actually carnivorous. They feed on small insects and animals. Their "pouch" or "pitchers" are shaped to trap unsuspecting animals who think they have found a safe haven, little do they know that they have just become "plant food" !

The entrance to the garden.

The lush garden inside.

Varieties of wild orchids.

Wild ginger torch flowers are quite beautiful.

Finally, the pitcher plants. Be careful not to fall into the traps !

If you have about half a day to spare, a visit to the Garden can be interesting and rewarding. Be sure to bring your insect repellents as the mozzies run wild here.