More often than not, the first things that pop to mind when one hears Singapore include Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Island of Sentosa. These places are, no doubt, a must-visit but Singapore has much more to it than is seen in the picture-perfect tourist attractions. If you want to find a place which can actually offer you an idea of what this city-state has to offer besides towering skyscrapers and modern architecture, there are hidden treasures which give the guests a taste of the history, tradition and picturesque nature of this amazing country. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list. Read on and discover the lip-smacking, ear-pleasing and eye-opening offbeat tourist attractions in Singapore to visit on your journey.
Travelling to Singapore with Trip Cabinet’s tour package need some recommendations, or thinking whether to incorporate these lesser-known places into your itinerary if you are in Singapore for a relatively short time?
1. Kampong Lorong Buangkok
Unfortunately, in modern-day Singapore, there are no such places left and what remains of this monument of culture is in the form of The Last Kampong.
Kampong Lorong Buangkok is the only existing kampong in Singapore which resides in the heart of the modern and developed city of Singapore. I am not joking in saying that, each time I enter this village, I feel like I am in the 1960s before the city civilization took its current modern status. The exteriors are wooden houses with zinc roofs, there are a lot of trees around and no skyscrapers that significantly distinguish this area from the rest of the city. It is not just a destination to visit, but a place where people get to live and learn how they used to live a few decades back.
Here, you get to interact with the people and learn from them as most have been living in the kampong houses for several decades and witnessed the transition of Singapore to modernization where most families lived in the kampong houses. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list.
Visiting Kampong Lorong Buangkok is an unadulterated experience of the rich culture of Singapore and its people as well as a serene experience from the busy lives people lead in this city country. They still consider it as one of the best place to go to in Singapore for anyone who loves to know the background of the country. Photographers will also love it as the kampong exudes a very country like feel that many people would love to capture in their shoots.
2. Haw Par Villa
Chinese mythology seems to have a vast network of gods, goddesses, supernatural creatures, and nymphs which are sometimes colorful and other times creepy.
Haw Par Villa, an Unusual and photosensitometric Attraction of Singapore with a special emphasis on Chinese mythology. This is amply confirmed by this theme park constructed in 1937 by two brothers Aw whose Tiger Balm ointment is well known has over 1500 statues and over 1000 dioramas that depict principles of traditional Chinese virtue. The park’s attraction known as the “Ten Courts of Hell exhibit” offers a great insight to Buddhist concept of a life after death, which to the American observer maybe rather gruesome.
Though not as slick and well-maintained as some of the other attractions that tourists can visit in Singapore, Haw Par Villa is very worth visiting as it provides a rather intriguing and sometimes even surreal atmosphere. The statues and dioramas are in bright colors and over-exaggerated faces, and they depict stories from Chinese mythology, historical events and fables. It is possible to get familiar with legendary Chinese tales about the Journey to the West and practical aspects of people’s lives, by learning about the rewards for doing good things and punishments for evil actions.
As much as Haw Par Villa is unique, it is also among the most interesting places one can visit in Singapore to get a perspective of the cultural history of the region. It is the area where art, history and mythology blend in a rather remarkable manner. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list.
3. Pulau Ubin: A Trip to Countryside Singapore
To understand the actual countryside and also quite a part of Singapore’s nature, do visit Pulau Ubin which is just a ferry ride away. This island is situated in the northeastern region of Singapore and thus a sharp contrast to the concrete jungle that forms the main city. Pulau Ubin still retains its rural roots and people there live in houses resembling Kampong Houses and life is much slower here as compared to the concrete jungle of Singapore.
For nature enthusiasts, it offers adventure tourism and recreational activities including mountain biking and bird watching among others. The Chek Jawa Wetlands found in the eastern region of Pulau Ubin is one of Singapore’s most biodiverse areas with marine life, mangroves, and even coastal forests. Apart from providing a bird’s eye view of the wetlands on the boardwalk and observation towers, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Singapore. There is also a rich fauna on the island, such as wild boars, monitor lizards and several birds’ species. It has been said that this is one of the best areas in Singapore to get a taste of nature. With this, the area serves as one of the relaxing retreats from the often-hectic lifestyle that is synonymous with Singapore.
4. Gillman Barracks
Visiting arts enthusiasts in Singapore should not miss this gallery that is enlightening former military barracks, known as Gillman Barracks. This has turned into an arts precinct; there are several galleries here that contains provocative pieces from independent artists from around the world. The galleries in Gillman Barracks can be seen as consisting of paintings, sculptures, installation art and performances.
Well-developed gallery spaces, restaurants, shops and multipurpose hall, Gillman Barracks is also an active venue for artistic activities such as exhibitions, artist’s talks and workshops. The place is not particularly for art lovers alone; the beautiful vegetation as well as the old-style buildings add to the beauty of the place making it ideal for a stroll. On leaving the galleries, the visitors’ clutch improved at one of the fashionable café or restaurants in the neighborhood. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list. This is a fantastic place for art lovers as it is one of the most attractive sites in Singapore for anyone who wants to experience art in its full force.
5. Labrador Nature Reserve: A Coastal Gem
Labrador Nature Reserve is one of Singapore’s hidden gems that provides the visitors with a chance to relax and enjoy the view of the sea and get acquainted with the local flora and fauna. This one is also situated in the South of Singapore, and it is part of Southern Ridges a series of connected parks and nature reserves.
It has nature walks trails, historical points and viewpoints that offer vies of the sea. Labrador Jetty is one of the crowd-pulling attractions in the park. You can fish here, and it’s also a great spot to watch the sunset. Wildlife is present in the reserve. Here, you can find birds, butterflies, small mammals, and other species. This place is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers because of the diverse range of wildlife. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list.
This site holds historic significance. In the Second World War, it was a strategic location for guarding the coast. Some of the features include bunkers and gunners. These elements provide tourists with a historical warfare feel. Additionally, the natural landscape scenery of the area is also appealing. One should not overlook the free attractions in Singapore, including the Labrador Nature Reserve, in Singapore. Whether you wish to meditate in solitude or conduct a picnic with your loved ones, Labrador Nature Reserve has something to offer.
6. The Southern Ridges: It is called A Walk Above the Trees
The Southern Ridges is a 10 km pathway system in Singapore. It links some of our glorious parks and gardens. Hikers can enjoy spectacular views of the Singapore skyline. The natural forest also provides a breathtaking perspective. The specific trail is very suitable for lovers of nature and walking. It passes through the woods and hills. The trail also offers a range of terrains, from mature forests to grasslands.
The decision to build some of these bridges with themes in mind is especially evident in the Henderson Waves. It is the highest point of the Southern Ridges standing 36 meters above the ground. Cementing its place as the highest point of entrance for pedestrians in Singapore. Some of the main attractions at the bridge are getting an overview of the surrounding regions. At night, the bridge is particularly appealing due to the LED lights that illuminate it.
Other attractions along the trail include: Mount Faber Park, one of Singapore’s earliest parks. HortPark, a park uniquely planted with gardening themes. Visitors are provided with an opportunity to view beautifully landscaped gardens and plant varieties at HortPark. You can easily include it your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” list. The Southern Ridges is one of the ten attractions in Singapore. It is a natural site where people can get closer to nature and escape the concrete jungle.
7. Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru is one of Singapore’s earliest residential areas. But recently, it has become one of the most popular areas. With many small cafes, independent shops, and galleries now present. Still, the area is one of the most exciting places to visit in the country. Due to the combination of old and new, it characterizes the area as unique.
When walking through Tiong Bahru, you can see the old shop houses, built in the style widely used in Singapore at the beginning of the twentieth century. Nearby, modern glass and metal buildings are also present. There are numerous cafes and bakeries with tens of coffee shops. These coffee shops offer a unique opportunity for relaxation. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a tasty pastry while you relax. For those who wish to indulge, Tiong Bahru Bakery is a recommended try. The bakery, which has recently opened at Tiong Bahru Food Centre, is known for its croissants. These croissants are renowned for being generously covered with butter.
The modern structures make up an essential part of this area. The murals and street art on the building walls add to its status as an art hub. It is also a place that has several cultural activities throughout the year thus making it to be lively region. For those interested in the shopping atmosphere of Tiong Bahru, there are numerous small boutiques. These boutiques offer clothing from past years, handmade jewelry, and foods made with love. One reason it’s funky to visit this place in Singapore is that it offers a unique perspective of the city. Modern and old elements coexist in the view.
8. MacRitchie Reservoir
Such a jungle in the city represents the future. The future, apparently, is the result of the Americans’current politics.
If you’re an advocate of nature, MacRitchie Reservoir Park is one of the best places to visit in Singapore. It offers a glimpse of wilderness. This reservoir in Singapore, enclosed by forest, offers many nice trails for hiking. It’s an intriguing place to visit if you’re a nature fan.
The Tree Top Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir is a famous suspension bridge. It is approximately no-meter long and connects two trees. Visitors are placed over the tops of the trees, in the heart of the forest. At times, the trail gets steep. It is not very long. The trail leads to a big bridge. The bridge is fantastic.
Besides hiking, the favourite MacRitchie Reservoir is also a perfect place for kayaking and canoeing. The waters in the reservoir are rather still. In the territory around the reservoir, one can hardly feel that it is located amid a densely-populated city. Fill your list with things to do in Singapore. Come over and enjoy the scenic beauty of MacRitchie Reservoir. MacRitchie Reservoir is amongst the top ten things to do for nature lovers. It offers a refreshing break from the concrete jungle. It is a good destination for bird-watching. Many deer, monkeys, and other wild animals live in the surrounding bushes.
9. Changi Chapel and Museum: Homage to the War SheRoes
The Changi Chapel and Museum is an important sight in Singapore. It is a sad sight to see. One can explore the history of Singapore during World War 2 here. The museum focuses on the memory of Second World War prisoners. It specifically remembers those confined in the Changi prison camp during the Japanese occupation in Singapore.
This museum has several halls and sections. They tell the stories of POWs and their ordeals during the war. The letters, photos, and personal effects of prisoners are displayed for visitors. The people can gain insights into the history of Changi prison camp.
The last hall noteworthy mention is the Changi Chapel. It depicts a copy of the chapel created by prisoners during the war. The chapel is designed to be a place for prayers and memorizing the victims. It is a symbol of people’s ability to overcome the war and emerge as winners.
The Changi Chapel and Museum is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Singapore. It is suitable for everybody who is interested in history. While it is a tad melancholic, it is quite enlightening as it gives an insight of the history of Singapore.
10. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: To some, it is a birdwatcher’s paradise
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is one of the best-kept secrets for people who love nature and watching birds especially. In the Northwestern region of Singapore, this wetland reserve is located. The park is a habitat for many water animals such as birds of passage, giant lizards and even crocodiles.
The reserve has several walking paths and a viewing deck situated on it. The viewing deck blind enables a closer look at the wildlife with little or no interference. The most appropriate time to visit Sungei Buloh is from September to March. Many birds, including herons, sandpipers, and kingfishers, migrate here in large numbers during this period.
Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is a popular tourist attraction site in Singapore. Anyone with an interest in nature and wildlife finds it particularly appealing. The reserve also provides guided and scheduled visits and other educational activities. Therefore, it’s an ideal place for people to discover more about the natural environment in Singapore as well as conservation practices in the country.
For bird lovers, it is a paradise. For those who need a break from the noisy and crowded city, it is an ideal place to visit. Because it is free.
Conclusion
Singapore is a city that shouldn’t be underestimated because of its perfect combination of the ancient and the latest. Although these places are popular and easily accessible, there’s something more precious that reflects the spirit of this city. These less popular places, such as Kampong Lorong Buangkok and Pulau Ubin, are different from the normal tourist spots. They are interesting and educative in their own way. Bring your trip bucket and add it to your “Best Hidden Places to Explore in Singapore” bucket.
Visiting off-the-radar places in Singapore will provide you with a learning experience that goes beyond the typical tourist brochures. These places will offer you a truly unique experience. Therefore, the other time you want to go to Singapore ensure that you work these off the main destination on your itinerary. You will find this city to have more than meets the eye in demographics and information. There is a lot more to discover about the city’s demographics and information.
Whatever your time constraints maybe, these little treasures will add to your Sightseeing in Singapore that is out of the ordinary. This is the right time for those looking for isolated areas where they can enjoy the breath-taking sceneries and discover more cultural rhythms that define Singapore Top 10 palace to visit in Singapore. best tourist destinations in the world.
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