[Updated: 20 June 2021]
Singapore may be small but believe it or not, there are many hidden gems and hiking trails that are waiting to be discovered. If you're looking for a respite in nature from your busy schedules, there's one place that you can momentarily escape to in Singapore - Upper Seletar Reservoir Park! With its scenic lakeside views and lush greenery, you won't believe that you're still in Singapore while you're at the park ?
Where is Upper Seletar Reservoir Park?
You might have heard of MacRitchie Reservoir but did you know that there are 3 other reservoirs in Singapore's nature reserves? Upper Seletar Reservoir, together with Upper and Lower Peirce Reservoirs, make up the other 3 reservoirs! The 15-hectare park is located off Mandai Road near the Yishun housing estate. Fun fact: the reservoir also connects to the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari!
Things to see and do at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park
Even though Upper Seletar Reservoir Park is located in central Singapore, it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is peaceful and it's perfect for any occasion - whether you're planning to jog, cycle or have a picnic with your loved ones. Nature lovers would love the abundance of flora and fauna here and you might even get to spot a long-tailed macaque! Just be careful not to leave your food or drinks exposed.
Here's a list of more exciting things you can do at the park:
Take a picture with the Instagrammable lone tree
Singapore has had its fair share of IG-worthy lone trees like the one at Jurong Lake Gardens and Punggol (formerly) but the lone tree at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park is unique in its own way. The lone Casuarina tree is set against the backdrop of the reservoir which makes it a super gorgeous scene ? Though not as majestic, this is probably Singapore's answer to New Zealand's famous That Wanaka Tree!
Go up the iconic Rocket Tower
Besides the lone tree, one landmark you can't miss here is the iconic rocket-shaped tower! As cool as it looks, sadly the tower won't be able to bring you to outer space ?
But what you can do is to head up to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of Upper Seletar Reservoir and the park as well as surrounding areas.
Note: Do note that the tower may be closed due to social distancing measures during the COVID-19 period.
Catch the sunset
With Singapore being a concrete jungle, it might be hard to find places where you can catch the sunset. But if you're planning to experience a romantic sunset, Upper Seletar Reservoir is just the place for that ?
How to go to Upper Seletar Reservoir Park
- By public transport: Take bus 138 from Ang Mo Kio Interchange and alight at Upp Seletar Reservoir bus stop.
- By car: From Upp Thomson Rd, turn into Mandai Rd, then make a turn into Mandai Rd Track 7. There are 3 carparks at the park.
Halal food near Upper Seletar Reservoir Park
While there are no amenities or shops at Upper Seletar Reservoir Park, it's just a short drive or bus ride away from the nearest halal eateries.
Springleaf Prata Place
Halal status: Halal-certified
Cuisine: Indian/Fusion
Opening hours: Daily, 8AM-11PM
Address: 1 Thong Soon Ave, Singapore 787431
Top 73+1 Fishball Legacy
Halal status: Halal-certified
Cuisine: Chinese
Opening hours: Thu-Tue; 8AM-8.45PM
Address: 914 Upper Thomson Rd, Singapore 787114
Upper Seletar Reservoir Park
Opening hours: 24/7, Park lighting hours are from 7PM to 7AM
Address: Along Mandai Road Track 7, off Mandai Road
Admission: Free
You might not be able to travel right now but you can definitely take this time to explore new places in Singapore. If you haven't been to Upper Seletar Reservoir Park, add it to your list and start uncovering Singapore's hidden gems ?