We all have heard of Singapore being called a concrete jungle, it is famous for its malls and shopping and not known for anything natural. I never knew before this week that Singapore had a tropical rainforest and a hill in the city.
Last week (12 May 2019) while travelling in Singapore with family, we went to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Singapore – the trek and the park were tranquil and peaceful, and we loved it. Unbelievable such a place exists in Singapore. We went for an easy trek, which was a nice and comfortable trek, about 3 to 5 Kilometres. Remember, to reach there early in the morning to beat the heat.
You can reach Bukit Timah Nature Reserve by MRT, and get down at the Beauty World stop, but it will be a 25-30 minutes walk from there to the visitor centre. I will suggest you a taxi or Grab to reach the place, otherwise, you risk becoming tired before even starting the trek – and in Singapore’s hot climate that is a real concern.
This 163-ha reserve includes Singapore’s highest hill, Bukit Timah Hill, which stands at 163 m and retains one of the few areas of primary rainforest in the country. The forest on the hill has been a botanical collection ground for more than a century. Established in 1883, Bukit Timah Forest Reserve was one of the first forest reserves to be created in Singapore.
The Map and the Battle for Bukit Timah
Entrance to the park
The trail begins
Visitor Centre and opposite to that are washrooms
There are signs everywhere to choose the trail you want to follow – they are categorised by their terrain and distance
Some areas have these boardwalks, but in many places, you need to be prepared to walk on soil and rocks
Some areas have paved roads too – no vehicular traffic!
All trails lead to the summit, so be prepared for some climbing
Fallen timber
A few relaxed moments
You can see various plants and trees native to the area
There are huts in many places for you to rest from the hot sun
There is a lake on the way to the summit, which was an abandoned quarry
Unbelievable to see such a dense forest inside a metropolitan city
Bukit Timah Summit
My sense of accomplishment, after reaching the summit
More pathways
Exhibition Hall
Fruits and Seeds of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Next time you are in Singapore, and you have half-a-day time and are comfortable walking 3 to 5 kilometres to a summit, visit Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
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