One often thinks of busy streets, tall buildings, and bright lights when Singapore is mentioned. Experiencing the walk through the famous shopping spots and attractions is considered to have known the entire Singapore. But the reality is that the other side of Singapore has been hidden till now. It has greenery all around, silence in the air, and the place is full of life. This part unleashes itself as you entirely break away from the crowd and begin to walk into nature. Before starting this experience, it is better to check what Singapore arrival card requirements you must have for a smooth journey, and to ensure that nothing distracts you from exploring the peaceful part of the city.
This end of Singapore is at its most peaceful state and quiet, with road noise fading, and birdsong taking over.
City in Harmony with Nature
Even though Singapore is a small city, it is highly developed and is one of the greenest cities in the world. The National Parks Board or NParks in Singapore estimates that over 47 percent of the island is covered by green cover comprising parks, nature reserves, and trees along the road sides. This strategizing did not occur by chance, and the city was created to accommodate nature.
As a result, it takes only a few minutes to shift from busy streets to woodland trails. The transformation is exceptionally beautiful and soothing.
The Southern Ridges: Strolling over the City
If you want to witness the most unexpected nature walks in Singapore, then you must definitely explore the Southern Ridges, a trail that connects multiple parks via forest paths and hills. Areas of sheltered forest, open bridges, and unobstructed views of the city skyline are all part of the walk.
The noise below is blocked here by dense trees. You will be mesmerised and lost in nature around butterflies, birds, and monkeys. The walk will feel serene and leisurely, even though it is in the city core. It demonstrates how Singapore's green areas are thoughtfully integrated rather than divided.
MacRitchie Treetop Walk: A High View Forest
MacRitchie Nature Trail also provides an experience of enjoying greenery in the city. It has the Treetop Walk, a long hanging bridge which allows you to walk at the height of forest canopies.
On the side of NParks, the MacRitchie area falls under the Central Catchment Nature Reserve of Singapore, which safeguards one of the oldest rainforests on the island. The reserve sustains hundreds of species of plants and animals, with many of them being indigenous to the area.
The walk here is like abandoning the city totally. The air is colder, the surface is irregular, and nature dictates the speed.
Rail Corridor: A Track through Time
Rail Corridor is another green, elongated corridor constructed on an old rail line that used to pass through Singapore, and is now a walking and cycling path that runs throughout the entire island.
This is a different route compared to parks. It is open, wide, and quiet. The old bridges and tracks are reminders of the old times. When you pass through the neighborhoods, they vary gradually, and the greenery remains unchanged.
It is the most effective means to observe how the amalgamation of history and nature is incorporated into the daily lives of Singaporeans.
Sungei Buloh: Wetlands Full of Life
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, located in the north of Singapore, does not seem anything close to urban life. Some boardwalks run through mangroves and wetlands, where birds relax and feed.
Photo by Radovan Zierik https://www.pexels.com/photo/goose-with-goslings-3912748/
NParks reports that Sungei Buloh is an important destination for migratory birds in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, and most species come to the area every year during migration seasons. Silenced observation places will give you space to observe nature without interference.
Here, time slows. You hear, wait, and watch but do not rush.
Nature trails in Singapore are not only walking places. They are a part of what actually defines the city. The Singapore Ministry of National Development stated that green planning enhances health, empowers wildlife, and makes life in cities more balanced.
Such areas will make you realize that Singapore is not only an efficient and modern city it is also considerate, kind, and very close to nature.
The trails transform the feeling of the city. You stop rushing, start noticing small movements. Also, you breathe, eat, and live differently when you visit the trails.
This green Singapore is not attention-seeking. It stands still, waiting to be uncovered by those who are willing to venture out of the norm.
