MacRitchie Reservoir is a place which nature lovers and fitness buffs would not want to miss. The reservoir, which was built in 1967-68, is Singapore's first reservoir. It is a popular venue for holding family picnics, to exercise, or simply to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Places most people will visit include the Jelutong Tower as well as the HSBC Treetop walk. However, do note the opening hours of the HSBC Treetop walk.
Getting There:
To go straight to the bus stop opposite MacRitchie Reservoir park, you will most likely be required to switch bus services along the way. From
- Boon Lay Bus Interchange: 157
- Buona Vista Bus Terminal: 74
- Clementi Bus Interchange: 165
- Habour Front Bus Terminal: 93
There are various trails running through the forest. They range from approximately 3-11km. Rest assured that each route promises a fulfilling experience. Enjoying the music of nature under the shade of the canopy you may even spot a rare insect or two along the way!
A rough gauge of level of physical fitness demanded for each trails is as follows
- Route 1 (Green): Easy
- Route 2 (Purple): Easy
- Route 3 (Blue): Moderate to difficult
- Route 4 (Yellow): Moderate
- Route 5 (Pink): Difficult
Treetop Walk Visiting hours:
The HSBC Treetop Walk is closed on Mondays for research and maintainence.
Tuesday to Friday: 9am-5pm
Saturday, Sunday and Public Holidays, it is opened from 8.30am-5pm
*Visiting hours are subject to weather conditions as a safety precaution.
Writer's Comments:
Coming to MacRitchie Reservoir, you would certainly not want to miss going up the Jelutong Tower. On the Jelutong Tower, you will be able to have a bird's eye view of the reservoir. The panoramic view would be unforgettable especially if you go early in the morning, avoiding the intensity of the afternoon sunlight.
It is also a must to visit the HSBC Treetop Walk when you come to MacRitchie Reservoir . The breath-taking scenery taken atop the suspension bridge which spans from Bukit Peirce and Bukit Kalang, the two highest points in MacRitchie would make all that trekking to get there worthwhile. Being closer to the canopy than ever, you may get to spot rare birds and wildlife species.
Visiting MacRitchie Reservoir to get closer to nature in Singapore? Bring along your own water bottles as drinks are not sold along the trails. It is also advisable to pack everything in a bag pack to avoid having your belongings (especially food) to be "stolen" by the feisty monkeys there!
P.s. Forgive us for not being able to capture any interesting animal species on our visit. You may be luckier next time!
References: Uniquely Singapore,Wild Singapore, Photos
