Covering over 400 acres (162 hectares) just outside of the downtown area is one of the largest areas of rainforest in Singapore. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is an ASEAN Heritage Park, and is home to 500 species of animal and 840 varieties of flowers. The land is considered an integral resource for the propagation and protection of the native flora and fauna of the region. While there are some restrictions on the activities that can take place in the park, Bukit Timah is a popular destination for hikers, rock climbers, mountain bikers and nature lovers wanting to see the indigenous plants of Singapore in the wild.
Start your day with a trip to the Visitor Center to acquaint yourself with the park. Here you can learn about its history and the environmental practices used in the park and obtain trail maps and guides. Join a guided tour to be shown around the park or head out to discover it on your own.
Warm up with a climb to the top of Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore’s tallest point, located in the center of the park. At 534 feet (163 meters) high, the peak offers stunning views across the park to the city of Singapore in the distance. Make your way to the abandoned granite quarry, just beneath the hill. Try your hand at rock climbing or hire a mountain bike and utilize the network of trails that traverse the quarry. One part of the quarry is filled with water forming a beautiful blue lake.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is located approximately seven miles (12 kilometers) from Singapore’s downtown precinct. Visitors arriving by car will find parking at the Visitor Center however, spaces are limited during peak times. There is overflow parking available at the Dairy Farm Nature Park, where visitors will find an alternative entrance to the reserve. The reserve can be reached by bus. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is open daily and there is no fee for admission.
