Bukit Timah Hill

Bukit Timah Hill is the tallest hill in Singapore – all 163.63 meters, or 537 feet of it. It is easily accessible. Perhaps that is why the hill and its surrounding nature reserve are popular with trekkers and nature lovers.

The surrounding area was designated a forest reserve in 1883, making it one of the first forest reserves in Singapore. The Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is open from 7 am to 7 pm daily.

You can experience Singapore's natural wildlife in this 163-hectare nature reserve when you walk or bike along its many trails. And you will be surprised with her share of wildlife and nature.

The reserve is also home to plenty of natural biodiversity such as long-tailed macaques and a variety of bird species. Some of Singapore’s most unexpected gems is the hidden-away pocket of greenery that is Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

At the base of the hill is the Visitor Centre. Here, you can learn about the varieties of flora and fauna that can be found in the park. There is also a car park and toilet facilities.

It takes about 30 to 45 minutes to climb to the Summit, and around 20 to 30 minutes to get back down – depending on how fit you are. I saw people jogging up the hill. Maybe they are training for some sporting events.

The trek to the top of the hill can be divided into three segments. The first segment is the steepest of the climb. Thankfully, the next segment is the easiest and flattest part of the trail. The road then branches off. For the third segment, you can carry on along the main road to take a longer but less steep route to the top, or you can take a flight of stairs stretching up to the top of Bukit Timah Hill. The stairs comprise of small and large steps juxtaposed side-by-side.

There are rest stops like these along the way for those who need to take a break, or if you just want to sit for a while with nature.

Bukit Timah Hill Summit is pretty unremarkable. It is home to stoic relay stations. It is kind of anti-climax to reach the top and all you see are the relay stations. Anyway, the thrill is in the journey, and the act of conquering Singapore’s highest peak!

A boardwalk at the top leading to the steps.

On the way down, I was in my own world, enjoying the quiet, when I heard a rustle in the trees and saw moments. It startled and scared the shit out of me. When I stopped to see what it was, I saw this 'thing' - probably a macaque, since I do not know any different. I took two shots at it - with my phone camera, and quickly, went on my way. I did not want to encourage it or antagonise it.

A view at midpoint onto a pond.

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