A Walk Through Singapore’s Southern Ridges Trail

Whenever I sense an overflow of negative emotions, I have always thought that it can be useful to “walk it off.” To me, walking is a cheapo, moderate peril and easy form of exercise. It is best combined with nature – verdant sights and scent of unsullied air – can be a very prevailing, under-utilized stress buster.

On several occasions that I was in Singapore for work, I maximized my stay there by exploring various sites during weekends. One time, feeling the toll stress has brought against me, a few colleagues and I went to “walk off” along with The Southern Ridges.

The Southern Ridges is a 9-kilometre trail that connects various parks along the southern ridge of Singapore (hence the collective name). The trails boast off its greenery and connecting bridges. It is indeed a perfect place to go on a hike where one can enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors, and a majestic, panoramic view of Singapore City.

The Southern Ridges connect the following parks: Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill Park, Hort Park, Kent Ridge Park and Labrador Nature Reserve – all of which can delight any walking, photography, and nature enthusiasts.

Mount Faber Park is one of the oldest parks in Singapore and probably one of the most popular tourist destination because of the cable car ride. The park is connected to Telok Blangah Hill Park by Henderson Waves Bridge. The park houses the Marina Deck, Palm Plaza, Jewel Box, and Faber Point.

Telok Blangah Hill Park is a 34-hectare park which is said to be a favorite site for wedding couples. With its semi-circular terrace garden located at the top, no wonder it is a favourite for photo shoots and prenuptial events.

The Henderson Waves is my favourite spot. This 899-foot long pedestrian, wooden bridge suspended at 118 feet above Henderson Road, is the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore. It connects Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park. It is called such because the bridge has a waveform made up of seven undulating curved steel ribs that alternately rise over and under its deck. The bridge also has shelters with seats within.

Kent Ridge Park is a 47-hectare public park between the National University of Singapore and the Singapore Science Park. Due to its undisturbed habitat and abundant plant life. So if you are a bird-watching aficionado and a lover of plants, then a visit to this park might just amuse you.

There are several trails at the Southern Ridges. There are Marang Trail, Faber Trail, Hilltop Walk, Forest Walk, Floral Walk, and Canopy Walk Trails. Each of which offers a relaxing walk through foliage.

The Southern Ridges of Singapore is a “fresh air and greenery” personified. It’s probably all that and more. There is something about its great outdoors that gives walking, running a little kick. So when you find yourself in the Lion City wanting to commune with nature, and you want to feel more alive, energetic and optimistic – walk your way to the Southern Ridges.

Credits and Big thanks to a good friend and workmate, Allan (@kislap96) for some of the photographs used in this write-up.

Don’t be wasted soul, be “juan”derlust”. Take it easy ebri’juan’…