Summary:
- Kent Ridge Park offers hilly forest trails, birdwatching opportunities, and panoramic views of the Greater Southern Waterfront.
- A World War 2 battle site, the park is home to Reflections at Bukit Chandu, a heritage centre commemorating the Malay Regiment’s last stand.
- It’s easily reachable by MRT or car, with rest stops, gazebos, and trail connections to the Southern Ridges for extended hikes.
Kent Ridge Park is one of Singapore’s best-kept secrets – a hidden gem that combines lush greenery, rich history, and a dash of adventure.
The 47-hectare park is located a stone’s throw away from the sleek offices of Singapore Science Park 1 and the modern Geneo Mall, a contrast to the lush and green sanctuary that will appeal to nature lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Part of the Southern Ridges, Kent Ridge Park offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Its hilly terrain, dense forests, and winding trails make it a favourite among adventurous hikers.
The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the majestic Brahminy Kite and the elusive Greater Racquet-tailed Drongo, making it a prime spot for birdwatching.
But Kent Ridge Park, gazetted as one of 11 World War 2 sites in Singapore, isn’t just about natural beauty; it’s steeped in history.
During the war, it was the site of the Battle of Pasir Panjang, where Lieutenant Adnan Saidi and the Malay Regiment made their last stand against the Japanese forces.
Today, Reflections at Bukit Chandu, a World War 2 interpretive centre, stands as a poignant reminder of their bravery and sacrifice.
You can visit the centre, located conveniently beside the Canopy Walk exit of the park, for free (for Singaporeans and PRs) and check out the immersive experiences and contextual artefacts housed there.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, delve into Singapore’s wartime history, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk, Kent Ridge Park has something for everyone.
So lace up your walking shoes and embark on a journey through one of Singapore’s most captivating parks.
Advertisement
How to get to Kent Ridge Park
Kent Ridge MRT is just a 10-minute walk from the park’s northern entrance, making it the most convenient option if you’re starting from that side. Some visitors, however, prefer entering from the southern end, in which case Pasir Panjang MRT is closest.
If you start from Kent Ridge MRT, it is an easy, pleasant stroll past Geneo Mall and some office buildings to get to the park entrance.
Starting from Pasir Panjang MRT, however, means a 20-minute uphill trek along a winding road – there are no buses plying this route – so it’s a slightly less attractive way to kick off your adventure.
Choosing your starting point comes down to where you want to end. If you’d like to finish your walk at Geneo Mall, soaking in its modern architecture over a cup of kopi, then starting from Pasir Panjang makes sense.
On the other hand, starting from Kent Ridge is ideal if you plan to continue on to Hort Park (and the Southern Ridges) or wrap up your hike with a meal at Pasir Panjang Food Centre.
For drivers, there are several carpark options. Carparks A and B sit near the middle of the park at its peak, while Carparks C and D are downhill, close to the Canopy Walk and Reflections at Bukit Chandu.
Choose based on your intended route, though it’s best to avoid Carpark D, which is the furthest from the park and mainly used by heavy vehicles.
Also read:
A Good Place: New Intergenerational Social Space Opens At One Holland Village
A Good Place, a new social space operated by Presbyterian Community Social Services is set to be a literal good place for intergenerational mingling.
Ageless Theatre: The Senior-Only Drama Troupe Pursuing Their Passion For Acting
68-year-old Debbie Lee has been a part of Ageless Theatre, a senior-only theatre troupe since 2011, fearlessly pursuing her passion for the performing arts.
What to expect at Kent Ridge Park
Now that you know how to get there, what’s it actually like to spend time at Kent Ridge Park?
The first thing that greets you is its dense forestry, which quickly muffles the sounds of the city that is just out of sight.
The surprisingly secluded sanctuary is a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle outside its green borders.
That said, don’t go in expecting a completely wild jungle trek. The park is built around plenty of stairs and slopes, taking you up to breezy vantage points before leading you back down toward exits or park connectors.
It’s a mix of effort and reward, with just enough challenge to keep things interesting.
To help you decide if the hike is worth your while, we’ve put the park through our SilverStreak Walking Guide Scorecard – rating it on factors such as accessibility, availability of amenities, and scenic appeal. Scroll down to see how it measures up.
Trail: Kent Ridge Park
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
- Ease of Walk (11/20 points)
Be ready to work up a sweat at hilly Kent Ridge Park. You’ll tackle plenty of slopes and stairways – some stretching past 100 steps at a go. The good news: they’re not steep, and many have railings for support.
Between climbs, wide paved trails offer room to catch your breath. If long stair climbs aren’t for you, this might not be the walk of choice. But for those who take it on, the park rewards with a satisfying adventure.
- Accessibility (18/20 points)
Getting here is simple. From Kent Ridge MRT, it’s just a 10-minute walk past office blocks to the park’s understated entrance. Drivers have it easier still, with two carparks (A and B) located right in the heart of the park.
You can also enter from the other end of the park near Pasir Panjang MRT via a winding road, though this route takes twice as long and is far less scenic.
- Amenities (10/15 points)
There are just two public restrooms within the park, both located near the park’s midpoint by the carparks, so don’t count on finding one until you’re halfway through your walk.
Vending machines and water coolers are conveniently placed beside them for a quick refresh.
In any case, it might be a good idea to make a pitstop at Geneo Mall’s restroom before embarking on your journey. Or if you’re towards the end of your trek already, the connecting Hort Park has restrooms too.
Benches are scattered throughout the park, with the best ones near the peak, perfect for a break while taking in panoramic views of Singapore’s Greater Southern Waterfront.
- Scenery (14/15 points)
Green, secluded, and elevated – Kent Ridge Park feels like a true eco escape. Its dense forestry and height make it a haven for birdwatchers and nature seekers alike.
From glimpsing a Brahminy Kite eagle circling overhead to spotting the storied Tembusu tree with its delicate flower clusters, there’s plenty here to delight nature lovers.
- Weather Protection (8/10 points)
Gazebos are littered throughout the park, offering welcome shelter from sun or rain and a place to rest after a climb.
Thoughtfully positioned at key spots – the park’s peak, beside stairways, and tucked into quiet alcoves – they make breaks convenient and enjoyable.
Along the trails, tall leafy trees add to the comfort, casting plenty of shade as you walk.
- Navigation (7/10 points)
Signs and maps are abundant, but they don’t always lead you along the park’s most scenic routes.
Following them strictly may take you past carparks or even asphalt in the form of Vigilante Drive, breaking the park’s otherwise serene atmosphere.
You won’t get lost, but for a more immersive nature experience, it’s best to chart your own path.
- Bonus Points (8/10 points)
The walk can be demanding, but sweeping views of Singapore’s Greater Southern Waterfront make every step worthwhile.
It’s also rewarding for those looking to go the distance. The park connects directly to Hort Park, opening the way to the full stretch of The Southern Ridges.
The park’s historical significance also grants it further brownie points for enthusiasts.
- Verdict (76/100 points)
Kent Ridge Park might not be the first place that comes to mind for a nature escape, but it deserves a spot on your list, especially if hidden gems and a rewarding challenge are what you’re after.
Surprisingly accessible despite its secluded feel, it offers the best of both worlds: urban connectivity and a true escape into nature. Birdwatchers and history buffs will find plenty to explore.
Few realise that the park also offers views of the Greater Southern Waterfront, which makes it the perfect surprise to cap off a hike.
| SilverStreak Walking Guide Scorecard Kent Ridge Park Difficulty level: Intermediate |
|
|---|---|
| Ease of Walk | 11/20 |
| Accessibility | 18/20 |
| Amenities | 10/15 |
| Scenery | 14/15 |
| Weather Protection | 8/10 |
| Navigation | 7/10 |
| Bonus Points | 8/10 |
| Total Score | 76/100 |
About SilverStreak’s Walking Guide Scorecard
The scorecard rates parks across key categories that matter to visitors, from comfort and safety to the little touches that make a place memorable. Each category is scored to reflect the overall experience.
Ease of Walk: Measures how comfortable and manageable the paths are for strolling, including gradients and surface conditions.
Accessibility: Looks at how accessible the park is to visit via different transport options. Also considers features like railings, ramps, lighting, and barrier-free access for all visitors.
Amenities: Availability of conveniences such as toilets, benches, and food and drink options nearby.
Scenery: Evaluates the park’s atmosphere, greenery, and scenic views that contribute to relaxation.
Weather Protection: Looks at how well the park provides shade, rain shelters, or covered areas.
Navigation: Assesses clarity of maps, directional signs, and ease of finding one’s way around.
Bonus Points: Rewards unique or standout features that give the park added character and appeal.
Total Score: An aggregated score based on all the points above. A higher score indicates a better overall experience.
Difficulty Level: A separate indicator (Easy, Intermediate, or Hard) from the Total Score, used to gauge the overall challenge expected of the walk.
Keen to explore new hiking trails with fellow silvers? Check out our Jalan-Jalan Kakis today!
