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Singapore’s green areas are concentrated in the central and northern
parts of the islands. Although urban development is continually chipping
away at the natural landscape, 5 percent of the total land area has been
set aside for nature conservation. Over 2,000 species of plants and some
300 species of birds can be found on the islands. Justifiably proud of
its standing as a “Garden City”, Singapore offers the visitors a
profusion of trees and flowers. There are many extensive green spaces to
visit and enjoy from beautifully manicured gardens and city parks t
expanses of primary and secondary tropical forest, wetland parks and
mangrove swamps.
 1.
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
This 164-hectare nature reserve is a veritable cornucopia of plant and
animal life. One of the only two remaining rainforests in the world
within city limits, the Reserve may be reached just 7 miles from the
city center. Its stand out feature, Singapore’s highest hill, the Bukit
Timah Hill is a favorite among hiking enthusiasts. Standing about 540
feet above sea level, the Hill and reserve grounds are easily navigable
with well marked trails guiding visitors over 50 hectares of primary
tropical rainforest. Visitors will delight in seeing exotic birds,
butterflies, monkeys, squirrels, and flying lemurs as they scamper from
tree to tree. The disused quarry lake is another spot which shouldn’t be
missed on your visit to the Reserve.
 2.
Chinese and Japanese Gardens
Contrasts between culture and architectural styles set amidst an oasis
filled with over half a million species of plants and trees. These are
just a few things to pique the interest of visitors taking a leisurely
stroll round the park’s grounds.
The beautifully laid-out gardens are situated on two islands linked by a
215-ft bridge. Zen simplicity, rock gardens, stone lanterns, summer
houses and vibrant carp (koi) ponds) are the main attraction that
beguile visitors in the Japanese Garden.
Just on the other side of the bridge, the Chinese garden stands in
absolute contrast with its
opulence that characterizes the Imperial Sung Dynasty style and
replicates the sheer majesty of Beijing’s Summer Palace.
There are also twin pagodas, a stone boat and a classical tea room. Park
guests may also explore the collection of bonsai (miniature trees) and
herbs in the Chinese Garden.
 3.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Located just close to the city center is the serene sanctuary of the
Singapore Botanic Gardens. Sitting on 53 hectares of land, this idyllic
garden boasts of lakes filled with graceful swans, ducks and turtles.
Orchestral music occasionally floats in the air from the outdoor
concerts that are sometimes held on the park grounds. The Park is
excellent for a quiet stroll or a bit of meditation with its serene
lakes, tranquil waterfalls, landscaped fountains and strategically
placed rest spots. It also has a primary jungle and manicured lawns as
well as a newly created Prehistoric Garden
 4.
MacRitchie Reservoir
A favorite spot for strolls, jogs, picnics and family outings, the
MacRitchie reservoir is situated on 12 hectares of parkland. Visitors
may explore the numerous footpaths that branch off from the main
10-kilometer track and lead into the wooded areas. Refreshment kiosks,
fountains and distance markers may be seen situated amidst the lush
foliage where monkeys and other wildlife abound. Local bands and
orchestras often perform at the park bandstand on Sundays.
 5.
Pasir Ris Park
Laid out on 71 hectares of land, this coastal park is favorite among
naturalists for its excellent 6-hectare mangrove swamp. Catwalks built
into the swamp allow visitors closer contact with the swamp’s
inhabitants like mud crabs, mudskippers, and the mangrove trees.
Birdwatchers are sure to have a ball too marking up their checklists
from the park’s 3-storey high observatory.
Children will definitely also love the playground with its giant
space-net, cable ways, innovative play stations and a maze garden.
Picnics by the beach is also a favorite activity here where the barbecue
pits are plentiful and snack shacks offering up freshly cooked seafood
as well as western dishes.
And to end the day, why not camp overnight and be woken by the sound of
waves?
This park also offers cycling, in-line skating and water sports for
those looking for active recreation. Outdoor concerts are also held in
the park's open spaces and the amphitheater for cultural and social
interaction.
 6.
Fort Canning Park
The first Christian cemetery on the island, Fort Canning is famous for
the two massive 19th century Gothic gates that stand at the park’s
entrance. The Par has many historical landmarks with sign-posted walking
trails, military ruins, a Malay shrine, ancient Christian gravestones
and a spice garden.
 7.
Mount Faber
Standing at a height of 345 feet, Mount Faber offers spectacular
panoramic views of Singapore, especially of the harbor and the southern
islands. One of the oldest ridge parks in Singapore may also be found
here. A 56-hectare rain forest is chock full of rhododendrons,
bougainvillea and red flame trees. Various look-out points offer awesome
views that are perfect for meditating or a round of picture taking.
There is also a tea house and souvenir shops where visitors could pick
up a sculture of a merlion statue looking across the sea channel. Cable
cars link Mount Faber to Sentosa.
8. St. John’s Island
One of the islands southeast of Sentosa, St. John’s was Sir Stamford
Raffles’ first stop when he arrived in Singapore in the late 19th
century. The island’s past may best described be as rather checkered
with it formerly being a quarantine station for Chinese immigrants
suffering from the cholera. In the 1930’s, it became the world’s largest
center for the treatment of leprosy. It then became a deportation
holding center in the 1950’s and later on a rehabilitation center for
drug addicts. Nowadays, the island is a serene place with grassy patches
perfect for picnics, paths for strolling, soccer fields to set up a game
in and safe swimming lagoons.
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