Homejourney's Bukit Timah Hiking Guide: Summit Singapore's Highest Point
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve offers Singapore's most accessible escape to primary rainforest, crowning the island's highest point at 163.63 metres. This definitive Homejourney guide equips property buyers, investors, and visitors with everything for safe, enjoyable hikes in this iconic nature reserve.
Whether exploring as a local or planning a stay near Bukit Timah's premium residences, prioritize safety with our verified trails, insider tips, and trust-focused advice. Homejourney verifies all details to build confidence in your Singapore lifestyle decisions.
Table of Contents
- Essential Information
- History and Significance
- Detailed Hiking Trails Guide
- Practical Hiking Tips
- Safety First: Homejourney's Trust Pledge
- Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
- Seasonal Considerations
- Accommodation Near Bukit Timah
- Frequently Asked Questions
Essential Information
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Admission is free for all visitors, including seniors and children—no tickets required[5].
Plan 1-3 hours depending on trails. Best visits are early mornings (7-9 AM) to avoid heat or weekdays for fewer crowds.
Quick Facts Box
- Address: 177 Hindhede Dr, Singapore 589925
- MRT Access: Beauty World MRT (DT5, Downtown Line), Exit B; 10-min walk
- Bus: 170, 173 at Bukit Timah Rd; alight opp King’s Road
- Taxi/Grab: Drop-off at Visitor Centre
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Fees: Free
- Official Site: NParks.gov.sg (via EdgeProp Property News for updates)
As Singapore's first forest reserve since 1883, it protects primary lowland dipterocarp forest amid urban growth[5].
History and Significance of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Established in 1883, Bukit Timah is one of Singapore's last primary rainforest patches, spanning 1.64 square km. It hosts over 1,800 plant species and 300 vertebrate species, including monitor lizards and flying lemurs[5].
The highest point in Singapore at 163.63m offers panoramic views, symbolizing nature's resilience. For property investors, its proximity boosts Bukit Timah's appeal—prime landed homes average S$20-50M, with good-class bungalows commanding premiumsProjects Directory .
Homejourney verifies market data for confident investments near this green lung.
Detailed Hiking Trails Guide
NParks designates four main trails from the Visitor Centre, all leading to the summit except one. Stay on paths—bicycles prohibited on hiking trails[5][7].
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Route 1 (Red) | 2.5 km loop | Moderate | 1 hour | Steep concrete steps to summit |
| Route 2 (Green) | 1.5 km | Easy | 45 min | Slower ascent via steps |
| Route 3 (Blue) | 4 km loop | Moderate | 1.5-2 hours | Summit + Dairy Farm Loop |
| Route 4 (Yellow) | 6 km loop | Hard | 2-3 hours | Full exploration, Rengas Path |
Download NParks map (PDF)[7]. Insider tip: Start at Hindhede Entrance for parking; loop via Hindhede Nature Park first for quarry views[2].
Signature Hike: 7km Bukit Timah Circuit
Combine Routes: Visitor Centre → Summit (Route 1) → Rengas Path → Dairy Farm Loop → Catchment Path → Taban Path → Return. Total 7km, 3 hours, moderate[2].
Extended: Kampong Trail to MacRitchie (8km)
From Bukit Timah via Pandan, Rifle Range to TreeTop Walk. Cross BKE bridge; 3 hours, easy forest/road mix. Light traffic, but watch for oBikes[1].
Photo ops: Summit plaque, Dairy Farm Hut ruins, heritage trees[4]. No guided tours, but NParks apps available.
Practical Hiking Tips
- Wear: Breathable shirts, long pants, sturdy shoes (trails muddy post-rain). Hats, sunglasses essential.
- Bring: 1L water/person, insect repellent, rain poncho, powerbank. No food littering.
- Facilities: Toilets/water at Visitor Centre, Simpang Hut. Nearest food: Upper Bukit Timah hawker (15-min walk).
- Family-Friendly: Routes 1-2 suitable for kids 8+; strollers no. See Singapore with Kids: Ultimate Family Guide | Homejourney ">Singapore with Kids Guide.
Money-saving: All free. Pair with Singapore Tourism Board passes for nearby attractions.
Safety First: Homejourney's Trust Pledge
Homejourney prioritizes user safety—stay on trails to avoid wildlife (long-tailed macaques may snatch items). Heat exhaustion risk: Hydrate, hike pre-10 AM[5].
Accessibility: Steep steps limit wheelchairs; paths firm but uneven. Report issues via NParks hotline. For verified property safety near trails, explore Property Search .
Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
Combine with Rail Corridor (10-min walk), Hindhede Quarry, or Rifle Range Nature Park. Full day: Hike → Lunch at Bukit Timah Food Centre → Botanic Gardens (MRT).
- Bukit Timah Market (hawker eats, 1km)
- Cheong Chin Nam Road (cafes)
Link to for itineraries.
Seasonal Considerations
Dry season (Feb-Sep) ideal; avoid afternoons (35°C heat). Monsoon (Nov-Jan): Slippery trails. Events: NParks guided walks (check site). Off-peak: Weekdays.
Accommodation Near Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Stay close for repeat hikes. Budget: Ibis Budget Bukit Timah (S$120/night). Mid: Oasia Residences (S$250). Luxury: Good Class Bungalows via Projects .
Search safe, verified properties on Property Search . For maintenance, Aircon Services . Financing? Check Mortgage Rates .
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bukit Timah the highest point in Singapore?
Yes, at 163.63m—higher than mainland points[5].
How do I get to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve by MRT?
Beauty World MRT (DT5), Exit B; follow signs 800m to Hindhede Dr[2].
Are there toilets on Bukit Timah trails?
Yes, at Visitor Centre and huts[5].
Can kids hike Bukit Timah?
Routes 1-2 for ages 8+; family tips in Homejourney's Singapore with Kids Itinerary: Family Trip Planner .
Is parking free at Bukit Timah?
Yes, limited spots at Hindhede[2].
What wildlife in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve?
Macaques, lizards, squirrels—keep distance[5].
Ready to explore? Use Homejourney's Property Search for Bukit Timah homes and start your trusted journey today.
