Looking for an Ulu (secluded) place to spend the weekend? Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve could be your choice! Located around the Kranji Reservoir, the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve offers a wide range of wildlife for nature enthusiasts. From Kranji MRT station, take bus no. 925C and alight at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve stop. Along the way, you should pass by several industrial factories followed by a narrow road into this secluded area in Singapore. If you are crossing the Kranji reservoir on your way, you are on the right track!
From the entrance at the bus stop, walk straight in and you should see a huge car park on your right. To access the wetland reserve, take the path to your left and you will soon reach the Wetland Centre.
This is the entrance where you can get information about the reserve. Admission is free. Although on their website it is stated that you have to pay for entry during weekends, I walked in just fine on a Sunday. As you walk on, you should reach the main bridge towards the wetland reserve.
As you pass the main bridge, there is this sign that cautions visitor to beware of crocodiles.
As this place is quite secluded, you might want to find someone to accompany you. I hear rustlings quite frequently during my walk. Although most of them are due to lizards or small creatures but it does make my heart skip knowing that crocodiles might be lurking around. Although I didn't encounter any crocs, I did saw a few monitor lizards loitering around.
The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is well known for migratory bird watching. Hence, you will see lots of bird watching observation points along the way.
There is also a route which points you towards Aerie Tower. Aerie tower gives you a bird's eye view of the reservoir and wetland reserve. The view is quite breathtaking.
I really like the fact that this place gives you that kampung feel. Very peaceful and quiet.
After the Aerie Tower, you should come to the end of the wetland reserve loop soon. You should be able to recognize the main bridge as you head back to the exit which is also your starting point.
However, if you have time, I suggest that you try out the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Extension right next to the wetland reserve as well. Remember at the entrance you took the left route before the big carpark? Now take the one at your 2 o'clock direction (if you are standing at the entrance) and head down to the Extension walk.
The Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Extension offers a few highlights such as the Mudskipper and Kingfisher Pods, the Eagle Point, Mangrove Trail and so on.
I think these pods are great spots for couples especially during sunset. Anyway, walking further, there is this awesome spot called the Eagle Point where you can see the coast at the other end.
After you are done with the Eagle Point, you have roughly explored 75% of the trail. There is this Midcanopy Forest Trail as well as the Coastal Trail after the Eagle Point which you should try out if you have time. Both these trails will lead you to the end of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Extension. If you are starving, there's good news! There is a canteen named Mangrove Kitchen which sells good curry chicken economy style mixed vege cuisine at the exit (or entrance) of the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Extension.
All in all, the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a secluded place perfect for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is among the most quiet nature destination around Singapore.
GETTING THERE:
Location: 301 Neo Tiew Crescent
By Bus: From Kranji MRT Station, take bus no. 925C and alight at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve stop.
Singapore