9 National Parks in Singapore

The glittering island-city of Singapore is not just one of Asia’s hottest travel destinations, but also a land of immense possibilities and ever-new adventures. With its unmatched range of experiences, magnificent theme parks, Michelin-star restaurants and high-street shopping extravaganza, there is never a dull moment. Along with fast-track development, Singapore is also relentlessly pursuing its dream of being a ‘City in a Garden’. National Parks in Singapore are oases amidst the concrete jungle, complete with nature trails, jungle bridges & wildlife. With over 300 parks and 4 Nature reserves, Singapore national parks map is a testament to its high green quotient. Let’s amble along some of the famous national parks in Singapore for a breath of fresh air!

1. Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Singapore

Home to around 40% of the native flora and fauna of Singapore, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is one of the two ASEAN Heritage Parks in Singapore. This 400-acre natural wonderland, considered one of the largest remaining rainforests of the country, is found on Bukit Timah Hill, the tallest hill of Singapore. Established in 1883 as a forest reserve, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is the perfect place for tourists to see the natural ecology of a humid, equatorial region such as Singapore, with its pristine charm preserved and maintained by the authorities.

The Shorea Curtisii trees, one of the oldest trees in Singapore, are believed to have existed here for more than 400 years. 18 species of the Dipterocarps, the tallest hardwood trees of the rainforest, can be found within the area. There is an ecological bridge that links the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve with the Central Catchment Nature Reserve, built to encourage the expansion of the habitat and species count of the indigenous wildlife of both reserves. Together, these eco-spaces are home to about 840 species of flowering plants and over 500 species of animals. Apart from marvelling at the wonders of this ecological gold mine, one can also partake in activities such as hiking and mountain biking. One day nature camps for children are organised at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve to help them understand and appreciate the natural heritage of Singapore.

2. Bukit Batok Nature Park, Singapore

The Bukit Batok Nature Park (BBNP) is a quiet, serene park near the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. The major highlight of the lush park is the quarry-turned-pond located right at the entrance. The 36-hectare park is perfect for jogging, walking or biking on the trails surrounded by the lush green beauty of the secondary forest. Many also prefer exercising at Bukit Batok Nature Park as it contains fitness areas and many bike trails of varying difficulty.

Bukit Batok means Coughing Hill in Malay and the park was given this name when it was formed in 1988, as it was made around an abandoned quarry that was once used to dig up granite. Since then, the quarry has filled up with rainwater and given way to a beautiful pond set against the foot of a high cliff and the secondary forest that the park now houses. The serene Bukit Batok Park has diverse trails that range from easy to moderate level of difficulty, providing a beautiful view of the surrounding clear waters from the lookout points that are as tall as 10- storeys high and at intervals along the trails. The park also plays its part in the history and heritage of Singapore as it holds a World War 2 memorial up on the Bukit Batok Hill.

3. Singapore Botanic Gardens

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This lush tropical garden in the heart of the city is undoubtedly one of the most popular national parks in Singapore, and the only one that has earned UNESCO world heritage site status. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, a family picnic as well as an invigorating nature walk, Singapore Botanic Gardens are a must-visit. Prepare to be awestruck by the sweeping vistas, lovely lakes with swans and a stunning Orchid Garden as you stroll along this plant paradise.

With the most exquisite collection of flora and fauna, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is claimed to be the world's first children's garden and is absolutely worth a visit. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is the country's first and only tropical botanic garden on the UNESCO's World Heritage List. First of its kind in the whole of Asia and third in the world, these gardens are over a hundred and fifty years old star visitor attraction. 

4. Fort Canning Park, Singapore

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When you need a quick break from touristy spots, head to this lovely park for the perfect dose of history and nature right in the heart of the city. This iconic hilltop landmark is a tranquil oasis of lush greenery, strewn with historic sites and heritage experiences. You can spot many war relics and also take the battery Box tour to get a glimpse into Singapore’s history. It is also one of the most popular national parks in Singapore for music festivals & concerts as well as a relaxing picnic place with great photography spots.

Fort Canning Fort is a historic site built in 1859, which served as a significant part of SingaporeÍs defence. Spread across an area of 18 hectares amid the forested land of islandÍs business district, the fort had an extensive and diverse life. The landmark raised hill of the fort once served as a strategic point for the 14th century fortress.

5. Pasir Ris Park, Singapore

Another one of the coastal national parks in Singapore, this green stretch of nature is just perfect for a rejuvenating break with the entire family. You can stroll along shady paths, enjoy the cool sea breeze and indulge in water sports while the kids have a great time at the superb playgrounds. You can also pitch a tent in the camping ground for a fun night in the park, with fishing and barbecue options right there. There’s a tranquil mangrove boardwalk for a quiet walk through the forests and plenty of interesting food options at the food court.

Pasir Ris Park is the perfect destination for families and friends to have a fun-filled day and not travel to the outskirts of the city. The park is a 70-hectare land stretching across 3.2km, including six hectares of forest. This attribute makes Pasir Ris Park the second largest park in Singapore. It has several activities for guests to choose from including water sports, cycling, gardening or just relaxing outdoors in your choice of location. The park is most famous for the Mangroves that it accommodates in its 70 hectares.

6. Dairy Farm Nature Park, Singapore

The Dairy Farm Nature Park is a magnificent nature park located in the Upper Bukit Timah area of Singapore. Spread across a thriving 63-hectare land, it is famous for nature trails, hiking, and the quarry. At the south-western end of the park lies the Singapore Quarry, a relaxing wetland and picturesque spot, serving as a prime spot for freshwater flora and fauna including the critically endangered little grebe bird. Gain knowledge about the changing landscape of the dairy farm and explore the wonders of nature through varied exhibits at the Dairy Farm Nature Park.

Although this park does not have cows anymore (as it is no longer a dairy farm), it still stands out from most parks in Singapore due to it being the place where the Wallace Education Centre resides. The Centre is Singapore's first field study hub for students and provides great opportunities for hands-on work and overwhelming experience. The Wallace Environmental Lab is also situated at Dairy Farm Nature Park, which is the primary structure in which all research studies, activities, etc., for students, is conducted.

7. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore

The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a wildlife and biodiversity park, located smack in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Singapore. It is Singapore's first ASEAN Heritage Park and offers visitors the experience of enjoying the wonders of nature through various tours, walks and guides. The Wetland Reserve is spread over 130 hectares of land, every inch of which is covered with rich flora and fauna. 

Singapore’s first ASEAN heritage park is a haven for nature lovers with its rich biodiversity and thriving ecosystems. Covered with vast mangrove forests, it is one of the best national parks in Singapore to unravel the mysteries of nature with its 150 species of rare and exotic birds within the wetlands. Traverse the many trails spread across this ecological gem to spot mudskippers, water snakes, birds and monitor lizards. The rangers are quite friendly and the kids are sure to have a great time exploring this amazing place.

8. Chestnut Park, Singapore

Chestnut Nature Park, opened in February 2017, is Singapore’s largest nature park, covering a total of 81 hectares. It is located on the eastern end of Chestnut Avenue, beside the Central Catchment Nature Reserve. The Park consists of two parts, in the north and the south, with the Northern part being four times larger than the Southern part. The Chestnut Nature Park was especially made for biking and hiking enthusiasts and is the only nature park in Singapore with separate trails being made for both.

Amidst so many nice national parks in Singapore, this one stands out as the largest nature park in Singapore sprawled over 81 hectares. Divided into north and south sections, this lush green park has separate trails for bikers and hikers on both sides. Very popular amongst mountain bikers, there are graded trails, bike rentals and washing facilities too. It is also a lovely place to discover a variety of flora and fauna as you stroll through the tropical forest.

9. Labrador Nature Reserve, Singapore

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Part of the 9-km long Southern Ridges of Singapore trail, it is blessed with nature trails, heritage ruins and a seaside promenade. It is built on the edge of a secondary forest and contains the only rocky sea-cliff on the main island of Singapore. Visitors can traverse through the seaside promenade on foot, or use a bicycle towards Keppel Harbour, explore the mangrove forests along Berlayer Creek, see the relics from the Second World War, or have a picnic with barbecued meals.

This is amongst the best parks maintained by the national parks board in Singapore, which offer a picturesque sea view along with an oasis of tranquillity amidst the sounds of the city. Labrador Nature Reserve is great for an evening stroll or a leisurely ride on your bike while listening to the sounds of forest birds and rustling leaves. Easily accessible by public transport, this hidden gem is wonderful for jogging, fishing and splendid sunset views. There are two small children’s playgrounds as well to keep the little ones busy.