Pockets of rainforest, mangrove swamp and Singapore's remaining agriculture still exist in Northern Singapore but are interspersed with sprawling new developments. Dominating this region are two nature reserves. This is the area where allied forces faced the invading Japanese in 1942.
This 164ha/405ac reserve contains more species of trees than the North American continent and is one of the world's two tracts of rainforest located inside city boundaries, the other being in Rio de Janeiro. Bukit Timah Hill, Singapore's highest peak at 164m/538ft lies in the heart of the reserve. Well-marked paths entering a jungle inhabited by birds, butterflies, monkeys, and lemurs make this an excellent hiking spot.
This Buddhist temple, founded in 1921, is one of the largest places of worship in Singapore. Examples of Chinese decoration, statues and shrines are found within peaceful gardens and the constant hum of prayers add to the tranquility.
Flowers outside Buddhist temple.
Address: Kong Meng San Phor Kark See, 88 Bright Hill Road, Singapore, Singapore 574117, Singapore
Hours:
9am-4:30pm
Transit: From Bishan MRT take the SBS bus 130 north on Victoria Street or take a taxi.
A tribute to the Allied troops who died in the defense of Singapore during World War II. The 24,000 names of those who died are inscribed on the walls and a register is available for viewing.
Tombstones at the Kranji War Memorial in Singapore.
Flowering tropical orchids, Singapore's national flower, are displayed outside in this 4ha/10ac garden. The area is planted with a wide variety of tropical and sub-tropical plants arranged to create a harmony of color, and birds attracted by the variety of exotic heliconias, gingers, bottle brush trees and giant mimosa make this an interesting site for bird-watchers.
The museum showcases the history, tradition, customs and development of the Republic of Singapore Navy, starting at its beginnings as the Straits Settlement Royal Naval Volunteer Reserves in 1934. The museum is housed in a pre-World War II barracks renovated to resemble the interior of a ship.
Address: Republic of Singapore Navy Museum, Endurance Block Institute of Naval Technology & Operations AFPN 6611 36 Admiralty Road West #01-01 Sembawang Camp, Singapore, Singapore 759959, Singapore
Hours:
8:30am-4:30pm; Sat:8:30am-12pm; Closed: Sun
Tips: Obtain a gate pass (exchange with passport or ID) before entering.
Transit: .By MRT Take TIBS Bus. 856 or 981 from Sembawang MRT Station.
The 87ha/215ac bird sanctuary attracts variety of migratory birds from as far as Siberia from September through March. Resident Kingfishers and Herons can be watched from 11 observations hideouts located throughout the Sungei Buloh Nature Park.
The oldest Buddhist Monastery in Singapore, Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery, is known for its exquisite wood and stone carvings and Buddhist sculptures.
Address: Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery, 184E Jalan Toa Payoh, Singapore, Singapore 319941, Singapore