If you want a glimpse into Woodlands of the past, Ulu Sembawang Park Connector is the best place to head to. It was previously part of Jalan Ulu Sembawang that ran past Mandai Tekong Village and Mandai Catholic Village – both of which were torn down to make way for redevelopment in the 1980s.
But Ulu Sembawang Park Connector still remains as a link between Woodlands Park Connector and Mandai Park Connector. We take a look at this old road that has been gaining popularity on platforms such as TikTok and Lemon8 thanks to it’s #IGWorthiness. Here’s what you can expect at Ulu Sembawang Park Connector.
Image credits: Chee Siong Lim via Facebook
As the saying goes – no pain, no gain. They really decided to put the ulu in Ulu Sembawang Park Connector because if you want to get to this iconic photospot, you’ll need to be prepared to hike or cycle as it’s pretty far off the main road.
Image credit: Khaw Brenda via Google Maps
But the views will be worth it. If possible, try to reach around 6.40am, so that you can catch glimpses of the sunlight piercing through the semi-dark sky.
Image credit: Theresa Lim via Google Maps
For spicier photos that are bound to garner more likes on your socials, you might want to time your visit for the morning after it rains the night before. You’ll get a misty, dreamy aesthetic that’ll rival any filter on IG.
Image credit: Shaun Chai via Google Maps
Ulu Sembawang Park Connector spans a total distance of 1.3km and thanks to its location, it’s a rather accessible route among hikers and cyclists who are visiting the Mandai T15 Trail. If you’re not coming from the Mandai side, you’ll easily find the start of the park connector just a 10-minute walk from Woodlands South MRT station.
Image credit: HorLeong Loh via Google Maps
From there, it’s a straight path on flat ground, so even newbie hikers or cyclists won’t have to exert much effort here. If you do tire out, the hiking trail has a small hut where you can sit down and take a break as well.
Image credit: 张TakWAI via Google Maps
About 3/4 of the way along the trail is a spot known on the map as Ulu Sembawang Sunrise Viewing Point. You guessed it, here’s where you’ll want to fill your camera roll with cotton candy skies and vast expanses of green.
You’ll get a similar view at sunset but we do recommend sticking to a daytime trek or cycle as much as possible. The park connector is open 24/7 but there aren’t any street lights along the path. If you really want to go on a night cycle, make sure your headlights are working and flashlights have batteries in them.
Here are some tips to keep in mind before you decide to head down. Protect yourself from nasty mozzie bites by wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent. As Singapore’s weather has been getting hotter and hotter too, remember to hydrate yourself and apply adequate sunscreen.
Nearest MRT: Woodlands South MRT Station
Address: 403R Jalan Ulu Sembawang, Singapore 779563
Opening hours: 24 hours, Daily
For more places to explore:
Cover image adapted from: Chee Siong Lim via Facebook, Theresa Lim & Khaw Brenda via Google Maps
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