Once known as Bukit Larangan or “Forbidden Hill,” Fort Canning Park is a place where ancient Malay kings once ruled and where the British made the fateful decision to surrender Singapore during WWII. Today, this historic hilltop has transformed into one of the city’s most beloved green spaces.
It offers a unique blend of lush nature, deep history, and modern recreation. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for the perfect Instagram shot, this park has something for everyone.
From the viral spiral staircase to hidden archaeological gems, here is your amazing guide to Fort Canning Park and the 22 best things to see and do at the Forbidden Hill.
For many visitors, the journey begins with a photo. The park is home to some of Singapore’s most visually stunning locations. If you want to capture the magic of the hill, start your exploration here.
The Fort Canning Tree Tunnel is arguably the most famous spot in the entire park. Located near the Dhoby Ghaut entrance, this underground crossing features a magnificent spiral staircase.
When you look up from the bottom, the opening creates a perfect circle against the sky, framed by the silhouette of a massive Yellow Rain Tree. The contrast between the dark staircase walls and the explosion of green foliage above is breathtaking.
Stepping into the Sang Nila Utama Garden feels like being transported to ancient Bali or Java. Named after the first ancient king of Singapore, this garden recreates the 14th-century royal orchards.
The highlight here is the series of Javanese split gates (Candi Bentar) and the symmetrical reflective pools. The traditional brick architecture and statues of frogs and fish add a mythical charm to the area.
Just a short walk away lies Pancur Larangan, or the Forbidden Spring. In ancient times, this freshwater spring was the exclusive bathing place for the noble ladies of the royal palace.
Today, it has been beautifully recreated in a 14th-century Javanese style. You can see a mural carved from volcanic rock depicting life in ancient Singapore. The sound of flowing water makes this a serene spot for a quiet break.
Fort Canning Park is a repository of Singapore’s history. As you wander the paths, you will encounter remnants of the colonial era and the ancient Majapahit kings.
Deep beneath the hill lies The Battlebox, a former WWII British underground command center. This is where Lieutenant-General Percival made the difficult decision to surrender Singapore to the Japanese on February 15, 1942.
It is now a museum that offers guided tours. Exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms gives you a chilling and immersive insight into the final days of the Battle of Singapore.
The Fort Gate is the most prominent remnant of the fortress that was built on the hill in the 1860s. While the fortress walls were demolished in the 1920s to make way for a reservoir, this imposing gateway was preserved.
It stands as a reminder of the hill’s military past. The heavy wooden doors and thick masonry walls were designed to protect the British soldiers stationed inside.
Near the Fort Gate, you will find an authentic 9-Pound Cannon. This artillery piece dates back to the 19th century and was typical of the guns used to defend the harbor.
While it is no longer fired, it serves as a powerful symbol of the hill’s defensive role. It is a popular spot for visitors to pose for photos and imagine the days when the hill watched over the port.
Fort Canning Green is a sloping lawn that often hosts outdoor concerts and movie screenings. However, its history is more somber; it was once a Christian cemetery for early European settlers.
You can still see the Gothic gateways designed by Captain Charles Faber. The brick walls lining the green are embedded with original tombstones, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who built early Singapore.
Located on the slopes of the hill is the Keramat Iskandar Shah. This is believed to be the shrine of the last of the five ancient kings of Singapura, Iskandar Shah.
It is a sacred site that has been revered since before the British arrived in 1819. The serene atmosphere and traditional architecture reflect the deep Malay heritage of the Forbidden Hill.
The Artisan’s Garden is Singapore’s only open archaeological dig site. In the 14th century, this area was the site of craftsmen’s workshops and royal quarters.
Today, you can see the actual excavation pits where artifacts like pottery, glass, and jewelry were found. Interpretive displays help you understand how these ancient artisans lived and worked.
The Hotel Fort Canning is a stunning example of colonial architecture. Originally built in 1926 as the Administration Building of the British Far East Command HQ, it has been restored into a luxury heritage hotel.
Even if you are not staying there, it is worth walking by to admire the Neo-Classical façade. It sits majestically amidst the greenery, bridging the gap between the hill’s military past and its luxurious present.
Beyond the history, this amazing guide to Fort Canning Park must highlight the botanical wonders. The park was the site of Singapore’s first experimental gardens.
Sir Stamford Raffles was a keen naturalist who started a spice plantation on this hill. The Spice Garden replicates his original experiments, featuring over 180 varieties of plants.
You can walk through terraced plots of nutmeg, cloves, and cinnamon. The accompanying Spice Gallery provides fascinating context on how the spice trade shaped the region’s economy.
Did you know the First Botanic Garden in Singapore was established here in 1822? It predates the famous UNESCO site at Tanglin.
While the original garden closed in 1829, the park has marked the boundaries of this historic site. Interpretive boards explain the economic crops that were tested here, from cocoa to cotton.
Named after the founder of modern Singapore, Raffles Garden showcases the plant species that Raffles collected and studied. It is a beautifully landscaped area with diverse flora.
Key features here include the Lighthouse, the Flagstaff, and the Time Ball. These replicas remind us of the hill’s function as a communication hub for ships entering the busy harbor.
This garden is dedicated to William Farquhar, the first Resident of Singapore. The Farquhar Garden is unique because it uses “living paintings” to showcase the plants he found noteworthy.
Large frames are set up around the garden, effectively framing the real plants as if they were botanical illustrations. It is a creative way to learn about species like guava and gambier.
Connecting the hill to the city is the Armenian Street Park. This pedestrianized zone links Fort Canning Park to the vibrant Bras Basah.Bugis precinct.
The planters here are filled with spices used in Peranakan cooking, a nod to the nearby Peranakan Museum. It is a lovely urban transition space that brings the greenery of the hill down to the street level.
Fort Canning Park is home to several majestic Heritage Trees. These are mature trees recognized for their botanical and historical value.
Look out for the towering Kapok tree and the distinct Cannonball tree. Their massive trunks and spreading canopies provide essential shade and add to the park’s ancient, jungle-like feel.
For families with children, the park offers excellent recreational spaces. There is plenty of room for kids to run, climb, and explore nature safely.
Located on the western slopes, Jubilee Park is a favorite for families. The playground is designed to blend into the natural landscape, using logs and earth mounds.
Kids can enjoy long slides that follow the slope of the hill. There are also climbing nets, sand pits, and swings, making it a perfect spot to burn off energy.
Near the playground, you will find Badang Terrace. It is named after the legendary strongman of ancient Singapura, Badang.
According to the Malay Annals, Badang once threw a massive rock from this hill to the mouth of the Singapore River. It is a great spot to tell stories and spark the imagination of young visitors.
Art lovers will appreciate the ASEAN Sculpture Garden. This area features a collection of sculptures donated by various ASEAN member countries.
The artworks are scattered throughout the greenery, encouraging a treasure hunt-style exploration. Each piece reflects the culture and artistic vision of its nation of origin.
After exploring these 22 things to see and do, you will likely need a break. Fort Canning Park has some delightful dining options right on site.
Located at The Foothills, formerly the River Valley Swimming Complex, is the popular Tiong Bahru Bakery. It is famous for its golden, flaky croissants and kouign-amanns.
The cafe has a relaxed, open-air vibe that overlooks the lawn. It is the perfect place to grab a coffee and a pastry after a morning walk or a play session at Jubilee Park.
For a more romantic or upscale experience, head to Le Jardin at the Fort Canning Centre. This restaurant features a stunning Victorian-style interior filled with flowers.
They serve French and European cuisine in a setting that feels like a garden conservatory. The outdoor terrace offers alfresco dining under the canopy of trees.
Lewin Terrace is another historical gem. It is a beautiful black-and-white bungalow that once housed the Fire Director of the Central Fire Station.
While the tenants may change over time, the building itself is a preserved heritage site. It stands as an elegant reminder of the colonial lifestyle on the hill.
Getting to the park is easy, but choosing the right entrance is crucial because the hill is large and the terrain is steep.
If you are driving, there are car parks at Car Park A (near the Registry of Marriages via Canning Rise) and Car Park B (near Hotel Fort Canning).
Be aware that the park involves a lot of walking, often uphill. While there are escalators near the Fort Canning MRT entrance, comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
| If you want to see… | Best Entrance | Accessibility Note |
| Tree Tunnel | Dhoby Ghaut / Fort Canning MRT | Stairs involved |
| Jubilee Park | Fort Canning MRT (Exit B) | Barrier-free access |
| Battlebox | Car Park B / Hotel Fort Canning | Steep uphill walk |
| Spice Garden | Clarke Quay MRT (Exit E) | Moderate slope |
Yes, admission to the park itself is completely free. You can explore the gardens, the Fort Gate, and the playgrounds at no cost. However, admission fees apply for the Battlebox museum tours.
To see the main highlights like the Tree Tunnel and the gardens, plan for about 1 to 2 hours. If you want to do the full Battlebox tour and enjoy a meal, you could easily spend half a day here.
Parts of the park are accessible, particularly around Jubilee Park and the Fort Canning Centre. However, due to the hilly terrain and stairs at the Tree Tunnel, some areas may be challenging for wheelchair users.
The best time for photos, especially at the Tree Tunnel and Sang Nila Utama Garden, is early morning (around 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM). The light is soft, and you will avoid the midday heat and the biggest crowds.
Fort Canning Park is more than just a green lung in the city; it is a journey through time. From the ancient legends of the Forbidden Hill to the modern joy of Jubilee Park, it offers a diverse range of experiences.
Whether you are marveling at the 22 things to see and do listed in this guide or simply enjoying a quiet walk under the Heritage Trees, the park never fails to impress.
So pack your water bottle, put on your walking shoes, and head out to explore the wonders of Fort Canning Park this weekend!
