We can all agree that the best natural wonders Singapore has to offer are its beautiful nature reserves, some of which have become our weekend staples. But beyond the more prominent parks and waterways are plenty of other green spots that are bursting with unique wildlife and Disney-esque views to boot.
If you’ve ever happened to pass through Khatib or Yio Chu Kang while on the MRT, chances are your eyes have been blessed with the lush greenery and tranquil scenery of Lower Seletar Reservoir.
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Besides the slew of benches scattered around the reserve, early birds would tell you that there are other checkpoints you can visit to catch the blazing sunrise views and enjoy the tranquillity of the reservoir.
This makes for a great HTHT spot with friends in the evenings too
Image credit: Property Guru
The Heritage Bridge is the perfect place for you to bask in the sun after a morning workout – it’s also got a pavilion for you to get on and whip out some yoga moves. And true to its name, it has information panels about the park’s history and surroundings.
The shaded area at the Heritage Bridge is just what you need to take a break from the heat – or rain – and enjoy the scenic view.
Fun fact: The bridge was built to resemble kelongs – old-fashioned fishing platforms on stilts.
Home to various species of plants and insects, the Bioswale Rain Garden is a promising site to embrace the overall view of the park too.
Image credit: AHS2J
Image credit: Singapore Through My Eyes
For your next family outing, consider taking a trip to Lower Seletar Reservoir’s family bay area and spend some quality time with your loved ones at the performance stage and kids water play area.
Open from 9AM-9PM, the kids water play area includes a central fountain, two water spouts, and a wading stream for your little ones to race and slosh through the water.
While a leisurely stroll around the park will help you unwind, Lower Seletar Reservoir has tonnes more to offer.
Just in case your resolution to try new things is coming to a bust, the 3.6KM reservoir has fun-packed activities that you can do.
There’s no better way to truly experience a day at the reserve than to get in the water itself. Whether you’re an avid kayaker or just a fitness junkie looking to try something new, exploring the reservoir on the water will open you up to spotting wildlife like the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Collared Kingfisher and Golden Apple Snails.
If you’re ready to hop onto a kayak, Lower Seletar Water Sports Centre offers a range of rental packages for you to paddle your way through the waterway.
Guided by staff
Self-guided
While angling is not allowed at most parks, fishing hobbyists will be happy to hear that the reservoir has designated spots for you to catch your next meal whilst enjoying the serenity of the water.
Not to mention, regular fishermen have been lucky to get their eyes on fish like the Speckled Peacock Bass, Indonesian Snakehead, and Peacock Cichlid at this pier.
Though there aren’t any fishing rentals at the reservoir itself, you can always purchase your own equipment nearby at Sincere Fishing Tackles in Yishun.
Switch up your next jogging or cycling route by touring around Singapore via Lower Seletar Resevoir’s park connectors: Khatib Bongsu PC, Mandai PC, Springleaf Park Connector.
Not only will you be clocking in a good workout, but the connectors will take you through scenic locations where you can expect to catch 10/10 sunset views and snap a post-workout selfie while you’re at it.
Don’t be put off by the fact that Lower Seletar Reservoir may be quite a distance for everyone besides Northsiders, as you’ll find that it’s actually pretty easy to get to. Even better, the park connectors offer an alternative route for you to easily visit the reserve.
If you haven’t already, add on to your bucket list and take a trip up North for a relaxing and fun-filled experience.
Address: Between Yishun Avenue 1 and Lentor Avenue
Park lighting hours: 7PM-7AM, Daily
Getting there:
Bus: From ‘Opp Khatib Stn’ bus stop (59049), take buses 851, 853, 854, 965, 96 and drop off at ‘Aft Yishun Ave 1’ bus stop (59029)
MRT: Alight at Khatib MRT, Exit A (~20-minute walk)
Cover images adapted from (L-R): @ohtardnassac, @c_adence, @richard.media
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