Are you looking for a refreshing and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you want to experience the beauty and diversity of nature and wildlife in Singapore? If yes, then you should definitely visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, a ten-kilometre stretch of green spaces that connect some of the most popular parks and gardens in the country. In this article, we will guide you through the Southern Ridges, Singapore, and show you why it is a nature lover’s paradise in the city.
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, is a unique attraction that offers panoramic views of the city, harbour and the Southern Islands, as well as a chance to encounter a variety of flora and fauna along the trails. You can walk, jog, cycle, or picnic at the Southern Ridges, Singapore, and enjoy the fresh air and the scenic surroundings. You can also explore the history, culture, and heritage of the area, and learn more about the conservation and preservation efforts that have made the Southern Ridges, Singapore, a green and sustainable space.
History of the Southern Ridges, Singapore
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the colonial era. The area was once a strategic and military location, as it overlooked the sea and the harbour. During World War II, the British built several fortifications and gun emplacements along the ridges, some of which can still be seen today. After the war, the area became a residential and recreational zone, with many public housing estates, schools, and parks being developed.
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, was officially launched in 2008, as part of the government’s vision to create a City in a Garden. The project involved linking five parks and gardens - Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve - with a series of bridges and walkways, creating a seamless and continuous green corridor. The Southern Ridges, Singapore, also features several architectural and artistic landmarks, such as Henderson Waves, Forest Walk, Canopy Walk, and Reflections at Bukit Chandu, that enhance the aesthetic and cultural value of the area.
Attractions and Features of the Southern Ridges, Singapore
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, has something for everyone, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or education. Here are some of the main attractions and features of the Southern Ridges, Singapore, that you should not miss:
Henderson Waves:
This is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, at 36 metres above the ground. It is also the most iconic and stunning feature of the Southern Ridges, Singapore, as it has a distinctive wave-like structure that spans 274 metres across Henderson Road. You can enjoy the spectacular views of the city skyline and the sea from the bridge, and also admire the artistic and elegant design of the bridge, which is made of steel and wood. The bridge is also illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing and romantic atmosphere.
Forest Walk:
This is a 1.3-kilometre elevated walkway that takes you through the secondary forest of Telok Blangah Hill Park. You can experience the sights and sounds of the forest canopy, and observe the different layers of vegetation and wildlife. You can also spot some rare and endangered species of plants and animals, such as the Malayan Colugo, the Oriental Whip Snake, and the Giant Forest Ant. The walkway is also wheelchair and stroller friendly, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Canopy Walk:
This is a 300-metre long walkway that connects HortPark and Kent Ridge Park. You can walk among the treetops, and enjoy the panoramic views of the harbour and the islands. You can also learn more about the history and heritage of the area, as there are several information boards and signs along the walkway that tell you about the role of Kent Ridge Park during World War II, and the significance of the natural and cultural landmarks that you can see from the walkway.
Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk:
This is a 2.1-kilometre long walkway that takes you along the coastline of Labrador Nature Reserve. You can admire the scenic views of the sea and the cliffs, and also explore the rich biodiversity and history of the area. You can see various marine and coastal creatures, such as crabs, starfish, and coral, and also visit the remnants of the British fortifications, such as the machine gun posts, the tunnels, and the cannons. You can also relax and unwind at the various lookout points, shelters, and benches along the walkway.
How to Reach the Southern Ridges, Singapore
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, is easily accessible by public transport, car or taxi. You can start your journey from any of the five parks and gardens that are part of the Southern Ridges, Singapore, depending on your preference and convenience. Here are some of the ways to reach the Southern Ridges, Singapore, by different modes of transport:
By MRT:
The nearest MRT stations to the Southern Ridges, Singapore, are HarbourFront Station (Circle Line and North-East Line), Telok Blangah Station (Circle Line), Labrador Park Station (Circle Line), and Pasir Panjang Station (Circle Line). You can walk or take a bus from these stations to the respective parks and gardens.
By Bus:
There are several bus services that stop near the Southern Ridges, Singapore, such as 10, 30, 51, 61, 93, 97, 100, 124, 143, 166, 176, 188, 408, and 963. You can alight at the bus stops near the respective parks and gardens, and follow the signs to the Southern Ridges, Singapore.
By Car or Taxi:
There are several car parks and taxi stands near the Southern Ridges, Singapore, such as at Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, HortPark, Kent Ridge Park, and Labrador Nature Reserve. You can park your car or alight from your taxi at these locations, and follow the signs to the Southern Ridges, Singapore.
Best Time to Visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is free of charge. You can visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, at any time of the year, as the weather is generally warm and humid throughout the year. However, some of the best times to visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, are:
Early morning:
This is a great time to visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, if you want to avoid the crowd and the heat, and enjoy the fresh and cool air. You can also catch the sunrise from some of the vantage points, such as Henderson Waves and Canopy Walk, and witness the spectacular colours and hues of the sky and the sea.
Late afternoon:
This is another great time to visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, if you want to experience the changing mood and atmosphere of the area. You can also catch the sunset from some of the vantage points, such as Henderson Waves and Labrador Nature and Coastal Walk, and admire the stunning and dramatic views of the city skyline and the sea.
Night:
This is a unique and magical time to visit the Southern Ridges, Singapore, if you want to see the area in a different light. You can also enjoy the illumination of some of the features, such as Henderson Waves and Forest Walk, and marvel at the contrast and harmony of the natural and artificial lights.
Tips for Visiting the Southern Ridges, Singapore
To make the most of your visit to the Southern Ridges, Singapore, here are some tips and advice that you should follow:
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, as you will be walking a lot and sweating a lot. You should also bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring enough water and snacks, as there are limited vending machines and kiosks along the Southern Ridges, Singapore. You should also stay hydrated and energized throughout your visit.
- Follow the safety instructions and signs, as there are some steep slopes, narrow paths, and uneven surfaces along the Southern Ridges, Singapore. You should also keep to the designated trails and walkways, and avoid straying into the forest or the sea.
- Respect the nature and wildlife, as the Southern Ridges, Singapore, is a conservation and preservation area. You should not feed, touch, or disturb the plants and animals, and also not litter, smoke, or make loud noises.
- Plan your visit in advance, as the Southern Ridges, Singapore, is a large and diverse area. You should decide which parks and gardens you want to visit, and how much time you want to spend at each. You should also check the weather forecast, the opening hours, and the notices before your visit.
The Southern Ridges, Singapore, is a nature lover’s paradise in the city, as it offers a refreshing and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can experience the beauty and diversity of nature and wildlife, and also explore the history, culture, and heritage of the area. You can also enjoy the panoramic views, the fresh air, and the scenic surroundings, and have a memorable and enjoyable time at the Southern Ridges, Singapore.
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