1. How does one get to Southern Ridges from the city center?
There are several options to get to Southern Ridges from the city center:
1. By MRT: Take the Circle Line or East-West Line and alight at HarbourFront Station (NE1/CC29/EW16). From there, exit at Exit D and follow the signs towards Marang Trail. This will lead you to the entrance of Southern Ridges.
2. By Bus: Take bus number 10, 30, or 51 from Bras Basah Road (opposite Raffles Hotel) or Orchard Road (outside YMCA International House) and alight at Seah Im Road bus stop. Walk towards Telok Blangah Hill Park and follow the signs to Henderson Waves Bridge, which is the starting point of Southern Ridges.
3. By Taxi/Car: A taxi or car can also take you directly to the entrance of Southern Ridges. The nearest parking lot is located at Telok Blangah Hill Park Carpark D.
4. By Foot: For those who prefer a longer and more scenic route, you can also walk from HarbourFront MRT station or Mount Faber Park to enter Southern Ridges from different points along the trail.
Regardless of which mode of transport you choose, it is recommended to refer to maps or online guides before embarking on your journey to ensure that you have a clear idea of where you are going.
2. Are there any public transportation options available to explore Southern Ridges?
Yes, there are several public transportation options available to explore Southern Ridges. You can take the Circle Line or North-East Line to Harbourfront MRT Station and walk towards the Marang Trail entrance of Mount Faber Park. From there, you can either walk along the Southern Ridges trail or take the Cable Car up to Faber Peak for a scenic view of the area.
Another option is to take bus services 51, 61, 93, 97, 100, 120 or 166 from various parts of Singapore to Kent Ridge Park or HortPark, which are both starting points for the Southern Ridges trail.
Additionally, there are also guided bus tours and shuttle services available at certain times that loop around different sections of the Southern Ridges for those who prefer not to walk too much. These services can be booked through the National Parks website or on-site at designated stops.
Furthermore, taxis and ride-sharing services such as Grab are also available for those who prefer a more direct mode of transportation.
3. What is the best mode of transportation for tourists visiting Southern Ridges?
The best mode of transportation for tourists visiting Southern Ridges is walking or hiking. The Southern Ridges is a series of interconnected parks and trails, making it best explored on foot to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, there are also various public transport options available, such as buses and MRT trains, that can easily take visitors to different parts of the Southern Ridges.
4. Can I bring my own bike or should I rent one at Southern Ridges?
A: You are welcome to bring your own bike to ride at the Southern Ridges. However, there are also bike rental services available at the HortPark Visitor Services Centre and near the main entrances of the Southern Ridges trails.
5. Is there a specific route or map that highlights all the points of interest in Southern Ridges?
There is no specific route or map that highlights all the points of interest in Southern Ridges. However, most visitors to Southern Ridges typically start at one of the four entry points and explore the interconnected parks and trails at their own pace. Some popular spots to visit include Henderson Waves, Forest Walk, Canopy Walk, HortPark, and Mount Faber. A map of Southern Ridges can be found on the National Parks Board website or obtained from the various visitor centers located throughout the area.
6. Are there any guided tours available for exploring Southern Ridges?
Yes, there are several guided tours available for exploring Southern Ridges. You can check with the National Parks Board website or the Southern Ridges website for upcoming guided walks. Alternatively, you can also book a private tour through a local tour company.
7. What is the average duration of a hike through Southern Ridges and can it be completed by beginners?
The average duration of a hike through Southern Ridges is around 3-4 hours, depending on the pace and stops along the way.Yes, the trail can be completed by beginners. The terrain is generally easy to moderate with some sections of stairs and inclines, but there are rest areas and benches along the way for breaks. It is important for beginners to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water, as well as taking breaks as needed.
8. Are there any rest stops or amenities along the trails in Southern Ridges?
Yes, there are several rest stops and amenities along the trails in Southern Ridges. These may include water coolers, benches and seating areas, washrooms, vending machines, and shelters. Some of the popular attractions within the Southern Ridges that have facilities for resting and refreshments include HortPark, Henderson Waves, Faber Point, and Mount Faber Park. Additionally, there are also nearby eating establishments and cafes located at the foot of Mount Faber for visitors to take a break and recharge before continuing their walk.
9. Is it possible to navigate through Southern Ridges on foot without getting lost?
Yes, it is possible to navigate through Southern Ridges on foot without getting lost. There are clear signage and maps along the trails that can help guide you. Additionally, there are also volunteers stationed at certain points along the trail who can provide assistance and directions if needed. It is recommended to download a map or use a navigation app beforehand to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
10. Are there any safety measures in place for hikers and cyclists at Southern Ridges?
Yes, there are several safety measures in place for hikers and cyclists at Southern Ridges. These include:
1. Signage: Clear directional and informational signs are placed at key points along the trails to guide hikers and cyclists.
2. Dedicated tracks: Separate tracks are designated for pedestrians and cyclists to ensure the safety of both groups.
3. Guardrails: Guardrails are installed at certain sections of the trails to prevent accidents, especially in areas with steep drops or slippery terrain.
4. Speed limits: There is a speed limit of 15km/hour for cyclists on the shared paths to prevent collisions with pedestrians.
5. Regular maintenance: The trails and facilities at Southern Ridges are regularly maintained to ensure they are safe for use.
6. Emergency call boxes: Emergency call boxes are located along the trails in case of any emergencies requiring immediate assistance.
7. First-aid stations: First-aid stations can be found at the key entry points to provide assistance if needed.
8. Adequate lighting: The trails are well-lit, making it safe for hikers and cyclists to use even after dark.
9. Ranger patrols: Park rangers patrol the area regularly to ensure the safety of visitors and provide assistance if needed.
10. CCTV surveillance: Some areas of the trails have CCTV cameras installed as an added security measure.
11. Can we access all areas of Southern Ridges with strollers or wheelchairs?
Many areas of the Southern Ridges are accessible with strollers or wheelchairs, but some sections may be more challenging to navigate. The Henderson Wave and Forest Walk may require assistance for strollers or wheelchairs, while parts of the Marang Trail and Kent Ridge Park may have some steep slopes. It is recommended to plan your route beforehand and check the accessibility information for each section on the National Parks Board website.
12. Are drones allowed at Southern Ridges for capturing scenic views?
No, the use of drones for recreational purposes is not allowed at Southern Ridges. This is to ensure the safety and privacy of other visitors to the area.
13. How long does it take to complete the entire trail system at Southern Ridges?
The entire trail system at Southern Ridges can take anywhere from 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how many stops you make along the way.
14. Are there any recommended spots for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning views of Singapore from Southern Ridges?
Some recommended spots for photography enthusiasts on Southern Ridges are:1. Henderson Waves – This iconic pedestrian bridge offers a stunning view of the city skyline in the distance.
2. Mount Faber Hilltop – Climb to the top of Mount Faber for a panoramic view of Singapore’s urban landscape and harbor.
3. Forest Walk – This elevated walkway through Telok Blangah Hill Park offers unique views of the city and lush greenery.
4. Canopy Walk – Get an aerial view of Kent Ridge Park and the surrounding area from this 280-meter suspended bridge.
5. Labrador Nature Reserve – This reserve offers picturesque vistas of the sea, forest, and city skyline.
6. Faber Point – Located at the western end of Faber Walk, this viewpoint provides an unobstructed view of Sentosa Island and the Southern Islands.
7. Marang Trail – Follow this trail through secondary forest to reach a hilltop with breathtaking views of both the city and nature.
8. Harbourfront Skyline Trail – This 1-kilometer trail starts from Keppel Bay towards HarbourFront MRT Station, offering scenic views along the way.
9. Reflections at Bukit Chandu – Take in views of Alexandra Canal, southern islands and downtown Singapore from this colonial bungalow turned museum.
10. Jurong Hill Park – Atop this hill sits a Japanese garden with scenic viewpoints, perfect for capturing sunset shots over Jurong Island industrial landscape.
15. What is the best time to visit Southern Ridges in terms of weather conditions and crowd levels?
The best time to visit Southern Ridges is usually during the cooler months of December to February, where the weather is mild and comfortable for hiking. However, this is also peak tourist season, so the attractions may be crowded.As an alternative, visiting during shoulder seasons of March to May or September to November can also provide pleasant weather conditions and fewer crowds. Avoiding weekends and public holidays can also help in avoiding crowds at Southern Ridges.
16. Does The Henderson Waves Bridge offer wheelchair accessibility?
Yes, The Henderson Waves Bridge does offer wheelchair accessibility. There are ramps located at both ends of the bridge to allow for easy wheelchair access. However, there are a few steep slopes on the bridge that may be challenging for some wheelchair users. Overall, the bridge is designed to be accessible for people with disabilities.
17. Is it possible to fish or engage in water sports activities at Alexandra Canal Waterfront Park while at Southern Ridges?
No, it is not possible to fish or engage in water sports activities at Alexandra Canal Waterfront Park while at Southern Ridges. Fishing and water sports are not permitted in the park due to its conservation status and ecological importance. Visitors are advised to follow all park rules and regulations for their own safety and to protect the natural environment.
18. Where is the nearest car park located if I am planning to drive to explore Southern Ridges?
The nearest car park to explore the Southern Ridges is located at Henderson Waves, which is located along Henderson Road. There are also other parking options available at various entry points of the Southern Ridges such as Mount Faber Park and HortPark. However, these parking areas might be limited and may have time restrictions, so it is recommended to check beforehand.
19.Are there any events or festivals held at Southern Ridges throughout the year?
Yes, there are several events and festivals held at Southern Ridges throughout the year. Some of the popular ones include:
1. Southern Ridges Walk: This is an annual event held in August where participants can explore the entire length of Southern Ridges through a guided walk.
2. Istana Nature Walk: This event is organized by the President’s Office and allows visitors to explore the Istana grounds and its gardens, including parts of Southern Ridges which are usually closed off to the public.
3. Capoeira by Sunset: Held every last Saturday of the month, this event features a combination of Brazilian martial arts, dance, and music at Henderson Waves Bridge.
4. The Purple Parade: In support of persons with disabilities (PWDs), this parade is held in November at HortPark, a part of Southern Ridges.
5. Outdoor Movie Screenings: From time to time, outdoor movie screenings are organized at various locations along Southern Ridges such as at Labrador Park and Kent Ridge Park.
6. Festivals Celebrating Nature and Art: During specific times of the year, festivals celebrating nature and art are also held at different parts of Southern Ridges where visitors can enjoy various performances or participate in workshops promoting sustainability and conservation efforts.
20.Is it necessary to get a permit before camping overnight at Mount Faber Park in
Singapore?No, it is not necessary to get a permit before camping overnight at Mount Faber Park in Singapore. However, you should always follow park rules and regulations and respect the natural environment while camping.