Overview
Bukit Timah Hill is the highest point in Singapore, offering stunning panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an avid hiker, or simply someone looking for a scenic adventure, Bukit Timah Hill is a must-visit destination. Here’s the ultimate guide to help you plan your trip:
Getting There
1. By Public Transport (MRT)
Take the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) to Bukit Timah MRT Station (NS7). From there, take Bus 171 or 961 and alight at the Visitor Centre bus stop. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $2-3 SGD.
2. By Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Singapore. Simply flag one down and ask to be taken to Bukit Timah Hill. The fare will typically range from $10-15 SGD.
3. By Car
If you have a car, you can drive to Bukit Timah Hill and park at the Visitor Centre car park. The parking fee is $2 SGD per hour.
Hiking Trails
Bukit Timah Hill has a network of well-maintained hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels:
1. Summit Trail (1.4 km, Easy)
This is the shortest and easiest trail to climb to the summit. It’s suitable for beginners and families.
2. Cave Trail (1.6 km, Moderate)
This trail takes you past the Bukit Timah Cave, a small limestone cave that is home to bats.
3. Dairy Farm Loop (5.6 km, Moderate)
This trail offers a more challenging hike with scenic views of the Dairy Farm Nature Park.
4. Hindhede Nature Park Trail (6.5 km, Challenging)
This trail is the longest and most challenging, taking you through the Hindhede Quarry and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
What to Bring
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Breathable clothing
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Whistle (for emergencies)
Safety Tips
- Always stay on the marked trails.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for wildlife.
- Carry a whistle for emergencies.
- Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
- Avoid hiking alone, especially at night.
Visitor Information
Bukit Timah Visitor Centre
- Location: 400 Venus Drive, Singapore 590400
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Contact: +65 6363 4160
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
- Location: Corner of Bukit Timah Road and Hindhede Drive
- Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Contact: +65 1800 471 7300
Interesting Facts
- Bukit Timah Hill is 163 meters (535 feet) above sea level.
- It is the highest point in Singapore and the third-highest in Malaysia.
- The summit of Bukit Timah Hill is marked by a radio tower.
- The Bukit Timah Trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Singapore, with over 500,000 visitors annually.
Planning Your Trip
To make your trip to Bukit Timah Hill as enjoyable as possible, consider the following tips:
- Plan your visit during the dry season (February-August) for optimal hiking conditions.
- Allow at least half a day for your hike.
- Start your hike early to avoid the crowds and heat.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable hiking shoes.
- Be respectful of the environment and follow the park regulations.
Conclusion
Bukit Timah Hill is a beautiful and accessible destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike, a challenging adventure, or simply some breathtaking views, Bukit Timah Hill is the perfect place to visit.
Additional Tables
Table 1: Hiking Trails
Trail | Distance (km) | Difficulty Level |
---|---|---|
Summit Trail | 1.4 | Easy |
Cave Trail | 1.6 | Moderate |
Dairy Farm Loop | 5.6 | Moderate |
Hindhede Nature Park Trail | 6.5 | Challenging |
Table 2: Visitor Center Information
Information | Details |
---|---|
Address | 400 Venus Drive, Singapore 590400 |
Hours | Tuesday-Sunday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |
Phone | +65 6363 4160 |
Table 3: Bus Routes
Bus Number | Destination |
---|---|
171 | Bukit Timah Hill Visitor Centre (Bus Stop) |
961 | Bukit Timah Hill Visitor Centre (Bus Stop) |
Table 4: Parking Information
Parking Type | Cost |
---|---|
Visitor Centre Car Park | $2 SGD per hour |