timah

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

A mere 12 km from the bustling city, the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is not only accessible, but also gives more than what anyone expects. Step into it and one will be able to experience nature in its pristine form. The 164-hectare Reserve includes Singapore's highest hill at 164 m and retains the only substantial area of primary rainforest left in Singapore. In fact, it is the only other city in the world to have a significant area of primary rainforest within its boundaries, besides Rio de Janeiro.

Paths weave through granite hills covered with dense tropical foliage and undergrowth, rising upwards to offer an overwhelmingly magnificent view at journey's end. Along footpaths, see an astonishing variety of plant, animal and insect life, typical of an equatorial climate. By virtue of its location on the equatorial belt, the Nature Reserve has one of the richest and most diverse ecological systems in the world. In fact, it has been noted that the number of plant species growing in the Reserve alone exceeds that of the entire North American continent!

The Reserve is, by far, one of the most treasured assets of Singapore. This is because almost all Singapore forests were disturbed or cleared at some point in history. This has led to the extinction of many large native animals. Fortunately, several small ones can still be seen residing somewhere in the Reserve.

Here, the more adventurous visitors can reach the summit via a network of forest paths. Otherwise, fret not! The option of travelling uphill by the main road is always available. Besides jungle trekking, avid fans of mountain biking would most likely adore the fact that there are mountain biking tracks as well. It also provides an ideal setting for carrying out any nature studies. No wonder it is a favourite destination for both locals and tourists alike.

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