Bukit Timah Nature Reserve Travelogue: Singapore's Natural Green Lung
If you think Singapore is all about skyscrapers, you must visit Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. This is the highest natural area in Singapore, featuring dense primary rainforest, rich wildlife, and the highest point in Singapore - Bukit Timah Hill. A short few kilometers of hiking will immerse you in the long-lost atmosphere of nature, making it an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Overview of the Reserve: Singapore's Natural Treasure
Established in 1883, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is one of Singapore's oldest nature reserves, covering about 1.64 square kilometers. The primary rainforest here is classified as an important tropical lowland rainforest ecosystem, preserving a diverse range of flora and fauna. Despite its small size, it is home to over 40% of Singapore's species.
Must-Experience Highlights
1. Climbing Bukit Timah Hill
• Bukit Timah Hill is the highest point in Singapore, with an elevation of just 163.63 meters. Don't underestimate this hill! The trail is short but steep, providing a small challenge for your legs.
• Once you reach the summit, you can overlook the surrounding green ocean, especially enchanting during the early morning or evening.
2. Hiking Trails
The reserve has several well-marked hiking trails to choose from based on different fitness levels:
• Green Trail: The shortest, suitable for families and beginners, with a flat and easy path.
• Yellow Trail: 3 kilometers long, covering both hilly and flat sections, offering the best experience.
• Blue and Red Trails: More challenging, suitable for more physically fit hikers, with opportunities to see rare plants and birds along the way.
3. Wildlife Observation
The reserve is home to many tropical species, including long-tailed macaques, giant squirrels, kingfishers, and various butterflies and reptiles. If you're lucky, you might spot rare plants like elephant ear plants, fig trees, and the towering dipterocarp trees.
4. Geology Park Exhibition Hall
If you're interested in natural ecology and geology, the exhibition hall near the entrance showcases the ecological history of Bukit Timah, including rock formations, biodiversity, and conservation efforts.
Practical Information
1. Opening Hours
• Bukit Timah Nature Reserve: Daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
• It's recommended to start your hike by 5 PM at the latest to avoid the dark.
2. Transportation
• MRT: Take the Downtown Line to Beauty World Station and walk about 10 minutes to the entrance.
• Bus: Take a bus from the city to several stops along Bukit Timah Road, then walk a few minutes to the entrance.
3. Recommended Gear
• Comfortable non-slip sports shoes.
• Sunscreen and insect repellent.
• A lightweight backpack with water, snacks, and rain gear.
4. Notes
• Keep quiet and do not feed the wildlife.
• Take your trash with you to protect the natural environment.
Suitable for
Whether you're a family with children, a fitness enthusiast, or a photography buff, you'll find something to enjoy here. Especially for outdoor hiking lovers, this is one of the few places in Singapore where you can experience "mountain climbing."
My Experience: Embracing Nature in the City
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve gave me a sense of peaceful satisfaction. Standing at the summit, looking at the dense tropical rainforest, with the sound of birds and the wind in my ears, I completely forgot the city's hustle and bustle. Every step revealed new and fascinating animals or plants, bringing me so close to nature without any intrusion.
For those who have lived in the city for a long time, this nature reserve is undoubtedly a balm for the soul. If you're in Singapore, spend half a day in this lush "natural oxygen bar" and reconnect with nature.