Northern Singapore Attractions
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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.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
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.
Singapore Zoological Gardens
The Singapore Zoological Gardens spreads over 28ha/70ac, and is home to over 3,000 mammals, birds and reptiles. Opened in 1973, it is an acclaimed "open" zoo where the use of natural barriers such as streams, rock walls and vegetation separate animals from visitors. The zoo's history is traced to the 1960s when withdrawing British forces left behind their family pets.
Night Safari
The Night Safari is the world's premier night zoo that allows the animals to be viewed in their nocturnal setting with the aid of special illumination that replicates moonlight. The enclosure is divided into 8 geographical zones, There are over 1,200 animals of more than 110 exotic species to watch out for.
Mandai Orchid Garden
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.
Republic of Singapore Navy Museum
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.
Bright Hill Temple
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.
Kranji War Memorial
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.
Sungei Buloh Nature Park
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.
Twin Groves of the Lotus Temple Monastery
The oldest Buddhist Monastery in Singapore, Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery, is known for its exquisite wood and stone carvings and Buddhist sculptures.
