Bukit Batok Nature Park is a stunning 36-hectare green space located in the western part of Singapore. It was developed on an abandoned quarry site in 1988. Today, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, families, and fitness enthusiasts alike.
Visitors are often enticed by the mysterious, well-shaded pathways that lead from the main road into the heart of the forest. The park features a dramatic quarry pond, a dedicated children’s playground, and a rich history dating back to World War II.
In this March 2026 guide, we will explore everything this park has to offer. You will learn about the best spots for photography, the unique wildlife inhabiting the secondary forest, and practical tips for your next visit.
The park is primarily famous for its breathtaking quarry view and its historical significance as a former WWII site. It serves as a vital green lung for the Bukit Batok neighborhood and a key node on the Coast-to-Coast (C2C) Trail.
Unlike its sister park, Little Guilin, this park offers a more secluded and forested environment. It is an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet walk or a challenging uphill hike toward the historic transmission tower.
The centerpiece of Bukit Batok Nature Park is the tranquil quarry pond. This area was once a bustling site for granite extraction before it was transformed into a public park. The sheer cliff face remains as a reminder of the area’s industrial history.
A spacious plaza has been built at the edge of the pond. This area allows visitors to sit and admire the reflection of the cliff on the water’s surface. It is a popular spot for morning Tai Chi and evening strolls.
For those who enjoy a climb, several paved paths lead upwards to higher vantage points. Some of these look-out points reach more than 10 storeys high. From here, you can get a bird’s-eye view of the quarry and the surrounding lush canopy.
To capture the best photos, visit during the early morning or late afternoon. The “golden hour” light accentuates the textures of the granite cliff. This timing also ensures the water is at its calmest for a perfect mirror reflection.
| Feature | Best Time to Visit | Why? |
| Quarry Reflection | 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM | Still water and soft morning light. |
| Wildlife Spotting | 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Peak bird activity and cooler temperatures. |
| Sunset Views | 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM | Dramatic shadows on the cliff face. |
If you are visiting with children, the Bukit Batok Nature Park playground is a must-visit destination. It is designed to be family-friendly and offers various activities for kids of different ages.
The playground features a large sand pit which is perfect for sensory play. We recommend bringing along a bucket and shovel for your little ones. The main structure includes purple slides and a rope bridge that connects different sections.
For more adventurous kids, there are climbing walls and a metal climbing dome. These structures are great for developing motor skills and confidence. The entire area is well-shaded by mature trees, keeping it cool even in the afternoon.
Just next to the playground is an exercise area. It includes apparatus such as a balancing beam and a miniature Jacob’s ladder. These are designed for adults but can be used by children under parental supervision.
The park’s secondary forest is home to a surprising variety of fauna. Because it is connected to the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, many rare species can be found here if you are patient and quiet.
Birdwatchers frequently visit to hear the melodious call of the Straw-headed Bulbul. This species is globally endangered but thrives within this park. Keep your ears open for its distinct, bubbling song.
Other notable birds include:
If you look closely at the tree trunks, you might spot a Malayan Colugo. These amazing creatures are also known as flying lemurs. They have a skin membrane that allows them to glide silently between trees.
Nectar bats also play a crucial role in the park’s ecosystem. They are the primary pollinators for the many fruit trees found here. Thanks to these bats, the local durian and mango trees continue to flourish year after year.
Monitor lizards are a common sight near the water and in the undergrowth. Some of these lizards can grow to over one meter in length. While they are generally shy, they are impressive to observe from a safe distance.
The park is also a haven for dragonflies. Lucky visitors have reported sightings of the rare “Jumbo” dragonfly near the streams. The presence of these insects is a good indicator of the park’s healthy water quality.
Beyond its natural beauty, Bukit Batok Nature Park holds deep historical significance. The hill within the park was a strategic location during the Battle of Singapore in 1942.
During the war, the Japanese Army established their headquarters at the nearby Ford Motor Factory. This hill became a site where they chose to commemorate their fallen soldiers.
The Japanese built a shrine called Syonan Chureito at the top of the hill. Interestingly, they also allowed Australian POWs to build a memorial for the Allied dead. This was a rare instance of both sides being honored in the same location.
When the war ended, the Japanese destroyed the shrine to prevent desecration. Today, only the 121 steps leading up the hill and two short pillars remain. A bronze plaque at the base tells the story for modern visitors to reflect upon.
For those who enjoy hiking, the park offers a mix of paved roads and forested tracks. These trails cater to both casual walkers and those looking for a more intense workout.
Bukit Batok Nature Park is a key node on the 36km Coast-to-Coast Trail. Many hikers use the park as a rest stop or a starting point for their journey across Singapore. It connects seamlessly to other green spaces like the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.
The forest tracks crisscross the park and lead to various clearings. Following these paths upwards will eventually lead you to the red-and-white transmission tower. Along the way, you can find a small freshwater stream running through the woods.
To make the most of your visit, it is important to be prepared. The park is vast and can be quite humid during the day.
You can take bus services 61, 66, 157, 178, 852, or 985. These buses stop along Bukit Batok East Ave 6, which is a short walk from the park entrance.
No, they are separate parks. Little Guilin (Bukit Batok Town Park) is located nearby but is smaller. Bukit Batok Nature Park is much larger and features more extensive hiking trails and a playground.
Yes, long-tailed macaques are often seen chattering among the trees. It is important to keep your food hidden and avoid making eye contact with them to prevent any aggressive behavior.
While the park is technically accessible, the lights are switched off from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM. It is safest to visit during daylight hours to enjoy the scenery and trails.
Simply stay calm and keep a respectful distance of at least two meters. Monitor lizards are not aggressive unless provoked and will usually move away on their own.
Whether you are interested in WWII history, wildlife photography, or a family day out, this park has something for everyone. Its unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty makes it one of the most interesting parks in Singapore.
Plan your visit today to experience the tranquil quarry and the vibrant wildlife of Bukit Batok. It is a perfect reminder of how nature can reclaim and beautify even the most industrial of spaces.
