At a height of around 700m, the lakeside resort area of Bedugul is noticeably cooler than the south, hence its suitability for the cultivation of fruits and vegetables that couldn't survive the tropical swelter closer to sea level. Whilst the temple is the big draw, set in lovely gardens with a slightly surreal looking playground for the kids, the Eka Karya Botanic Garden also known as the Botanical Gardens are an often-overlooked gem. The park resembles magical forest more than it does the fecund monsoon jungle the island is generally known for. It was established in 1958 and now contains over 16,000 plant collections spread out over a sprawling 160 hectares. The immaculately manicured gardens are navigable via guided driving paths and walking trails with sections such as The Balinese Cosmos (where one can learn about the role of plants in Balinese daily life), Tropical Mountain Forest, Orchid Park, Cactus Collection and Fern Park.  It is a wonderful place to have a picnic amongst tropical oaks or on the sprawling green lawn.

The Bali Botanic Garden is located about 60 KM from Denpasar. Public transportation is not convenient due to irregular schedule, visitors are therefore advised to use tourist buses, a car, a taxi, or motorbikes. This garden is a place for botanical research, conservation, education and recreation. One can relax in beautiful and peaceful surroundings while learning about the use of plants in the daily lives of Balinese people as well as many interesting tropical rainforest plants and birdlife. Beside the plant collections, Eka Karya Botanic Garden also has a traditional Balinese house that is used as a guesthouse for scientists who are doing observation. It is also open for public including tourists.