Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR)

Description

Established in 1883, Bukit Timah Forest Reserve was one of the first forest reserves to be created in Singapore. Here you can experience nature in its finest form, while being a mere 12 km from the bustling city center. By virtue of Singapore’s location on the equatorial belt, the reserve has one of the richest and most diverse ecological systems. Visitors can see an astonishing variety of plant, animal and insect life, typical of a humid equatorial climate.

This 163-hectares reserve includes Singapore’s highest hill, Bukit Timah Hill, which stands 163m tall 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, and the first known specimens of many species of Malayan plants have been obtained here.

Home to a high percentage of our nation’s native flora and fauna, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve has been a favorite spot for those looking to get close to nature.Visit Bukit Timah Nature Reserve to witness nature at its best. You will not regret the time spent here.

Tips

Best route to follow -

1. There are several trails and tracks with clear signage. We recommend taking the cave path route (Turning right from the main road) for the first time to avoid the steep climb straight from the visitor entrance.
2. Subsequently you can take the moderate and more difficult routes. The difficulty level is indicated in the maps shared below.
3. There is a trail from the Macritchie Reservoir to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. It’s about 12 km. We highly recommend doing that. Preferably starting from Macritchie Reservoir (Lornie Trail side).

Best Spot to relax:

1. 1. At the summit point of Bukit Timah Hill.
2. 2. In huts and sitting areas across the nature reserve.

Best nearby place to have breakfast:

1. The food court at Beauty World Centre (a short walk from Bukit Timah Nature Reserve) is a good spot for tasty food.

Any other tips -

1. ● Check the weather forecast. Avoid this trail for a few days after it rains or during the rain as it can become slippery and unsafe.

Other Special Info -

1. ● This is a very popular trail and gets crowded quite early in the morning and the car park gets filled up by 730 am especially on weekends.
2. ● ince it’s mostly shaded you can go there any time during the day to avoid the peak early morning hours.

Rating - 5/5

Our views:

- We loved the lush dense nature, flora and fauna, and the soothing sound of the various creatures

- It is a place to forget your worries and get lost in the natural spectacle

Tips

Remember to check the weather forecast. Avoid this trail for a few days after it rains as many of the unpaved routes can be slippery and unsafe.

- Due to its popularity, the car park can get crowded by 730am on weekends.

- Since its shaded, you can go there any time during the day to avoid the peak hours of morning and evening especially on weekends.