Thomson Nature Park Singapore’s

Introduction

Tucked away along Old Upper Thomson Road lies one of Singapore’s most unique green spaces — Thomson Nature Park. Unlike many other nature reserves in the city-state, this 50-hectare park is a rare fusion of natural wilderness and cultural history, where remnants of a once-thriving Hainanese village sit amid secondary rainforest teeming with native wildlife.

Officially opened in 2019, Thomson Nature Park is part of the National Parks Board (NParks) network of nature parks designed to protect and buffer the Central Catchment Nature Reserve while offering visitors enriching and educational outdoor experiences.

Why Visit Thomson Nature Park?

Thomson Nature Park offers a compelling mix of attractions for every nature lover and history enthusiast:

• Forest trails for easy, family-friendly hiking
• Historic ruins of a 1930s kampung (village)
• Habitat for the endangered Raffles’ Banded Langur
• Rich biodiversity, from mousedeer to tree frogs
• Great for birdwatching and heritage photography

Things to Do at Thomson Nature Park

1. Explore 5 Scenic Walking Trails (Total ~3.8 km)

Each trail is themed around heritage or ecology, offering different sights and experiences:

• Ruins & Figs Trail (1.5 km): Walk through the preserved layout of the Hainanese village — complete with stone foundations, old wells, and wild fig trees.
• Stream & Ferns Trail (1.4 km): Follow a babbling stream fringed by lush greenery and ferns.
• Rambutan Trail (0.4 km): Named after a former fruit plantation, this path tells the story of agricultural kampung life.
• Langur Trail (0.15 km): Spot the endangered Raffles’ Banded Langur, especially in early mornings.
• Macaque Trail (0.35 km): A short walk leading into more forested terrain where macaques roam.

All trails are easy-to-moderate in difficulty and suitable for visitors of all ages.

2. Wildlife Watching

Thomson Nature Park is a refuge for various threatened and native species:

• Raffles’ Banded Langur (critically endangered)
• Sunda Pangolin
• Lesser Mousedeer
• Straw-headed Bulbul
• Malayan Porcupine
• Spotted Tree Frog
• Malayan Box Terrapin

Bring binoculars for early-morning or late-afternoon spotting!

3. Immerse in Heritage

This park stands on what was once a vibrant Hainanese village that flourished from the 1930s to the 1980s. You’ll see:

• Old gate posts and signboards (e.g., Lorong Pelita)
• Stone staircases
• Interpretive panels with stories of kampung life

It’s like stepping into a living museum surrounded by nature.

Park Information

Getting There

By MRT & Walking:
Take the Thomson-East Coast Line to Lentor MRT. From Exit 5, it’s a ~30-minute walk (2.3 km) to the park entrance along Yio Chu Kang Road and Upper Thomson Road.

By Bus:
Bus stops along Upper Thomson Road (services: 163, 167, 169, 980) are nearby. Alight near Tagore Drive or Old Upper Thomson Road.

By Car:
Parking is available near the main entrance but is limited. Come early on weekends.

Tips for Visitors

• Best time to visit is morning (7–9 am) for cool weather and active wildlife.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring insect repellent.
• Bring water and snacks, but do not litter — bins are located near the entrance.
• Respect nature: stay on trails and don’t disturb animals or heritage structures.

Final Thoughts

Thomson Nature Park is a hidden gem in Singapore — a sanctuary where the past and present coexist, offering a serene escape just minutes from the city. Whether you’re exploring village ruins, hiking under a canopy of fig trees, or spotting endangered primates in the wild, this park delivers a uniquely enriching experience that combines history, culture, and ecology.

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure with real soul, Thomson Nature Park is a must-visit.