Bukit Timah Hill is the highest hill in Singapore, standing at 163.6 metres (537 feet) above sea level. This is comparable to the height of a 50-storey building. It is located in the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, a 163-hectare (403-acre) rainforest reserve. The hill is a popular hiking destination, with several trails that lead to its summit. While Bukit Timah Hill is not particularly high by international standards, it is a significant landmark in Singapore and offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Height Comparison
To put Bukit Timah Hill’s height into perspective, here are some comparisons to other notable landmarks:
| Landmark | Height (m) |
|---|---|
| Mount Everest | 8,848.86 |
| Burj Khalifa | 828 |
| Eiffel Tower | 330 |
| Statue of Liberty | 93 |
| Great Pyramid of Giza | 146 |
As you can see, Bukit Timah Hill is not the tallest landmark in the world, but it is still a significant elevation within Singapore.
Hiking Trails
There are several hiking trails that lead to the summit of Bukit Timah Hill, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Summit Trail, a 3.5-kilometre (2.2-mile) loop trail that takes about 2 hours to complete. Other trails include the Quarry Trail, the Dairy Farm Trail, and the Wallace Trail.
Flora and Fauna
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The reserve is home to over 500 species of plants, including the critically endangered Tembusu tree. The reserve is also home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, squirrels, birds, and reptiles.
Conservation
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is a protected area, and several conservation efforts are underway to preserve its natural heritage. These efforts include reforestation, habitat restoration, and the control of invasive species.
Current Status and What We Can Do
Bukit Timah Hill is a unique and valuable natural asset for Singapore. It is important to protect and conserve this natural heritage for future generations. We can all do our part by visiting the reserve responsibly, following the designated trails, and respecting the wildlife.
Additional Information
- Bukit Timah Hill was formed about 300 million years ago by volcanic eruptions.
- The hill is made up of granite and sandstone.
- The summit of Bukit Timah Hill offers panoramic views of Singapore, including the city skyline, the Southern Islands, and Malaysia.
- Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is home to several archaeological sites, including the Bukit Timah Granite Quarry and the Dairy Farm Quarry.
Tips and Tricks
- The best time to hike Bukit Timah Hill is during the dry season (November to April).
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, and bring plenty of water.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay on the designated trails.
- Respect the wildlife and do not feed the animals.
- If you are hiking with children, keep them close to you at all times.
FAQs
Q: How high is Bukit Timah Hill?
A: Bukit Timah Hill is 163.6 metres (537 feet) above sea level.
Q: What is the best way to get to Bukit Timah Hill?
A: The best way to get to Bukit Timah Hill is by public transport. Take the MRT to Beauty World Station and then take bus 963 to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve entrance.
Q: How long does it take to hike to the summit of Bukit Timah Hill?
A: It takes about 2 hours to hike to the summit of Bukit Timah Hill via the Summit Trail.
Q: Is Bukit Timah Hill a difficult hike?
A: The Summit Trail is a moderate hike, with some steep sections. It is not recommended for beginners or people with limited mobility.
Q: What should I bring on a hike to Bukit Timah Hill?
A: You should bring comfortable shoes and clothing, plenty of water, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Q: Are there any facilities at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve?
A: Yes, there are several facilities at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, including toilets, picnic areas, and a visitor centre.
