Discover the lesser-seen side of Singapore

18 February 2025

When people think of Singapore, the immediate images are often of futuristic skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and incredible food. While all of this is true, it’s just one side of the story. Beneath the glitz and glamour lies a world of unique attractions, cultural treasures, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. If you’re craving an experience that goes beyond the traditional tourist hotspots, here are seven experiences that offer a fresh and fascinating perspective on Singapore.

Discover the lesser-seen side of Singapore

The Intan

Step back in time and into a world of Peranakan culture at The Intan, an award-winning museum-home. Nestled in a discrete corner of Katong-Joo Chiat, this beautifully curated space showcases an exquisite collection of Peranakan antiques. From intricate beadwork to ornate porcelain, every piece tells a story of Singapore’s rich cultural tapestry. What makes The Intan special isn't just its collection – it’s the personal touch of its owner, Alvin Yapp, who welcomes guests into his home with storytelling, tea, and even traditional kueh (bite-sized snacks or desserts).

MacRitchie Nature Reserve

Trade the urban chaos for a peaceful retreat into lush greenery at MacRitchie Nature Reserve. This haven, part of Singapore's Central Catchment Nature Reserve, is perfect for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. One of its main highlights is the Treetop Walk, a suspension bridge that soars above the forest canopy. The panoramic views from the top are breathtaking and offer a rare chance to see Singapore’s natural landscape from a new perspective. Along the trails, keep an eye out for native wildlife like long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and even colourful birds.

Pulau Ubin

If you’ve ever wondered what Singapore was like 60 years ago, Pulau Ubin is the answer. This rustic island, reachable by a quick bumboat ride from Changi Point Ferry Terminal, feels like a step back in time. From its dirt roads to scattered kampungs (villages) and thick forests, Pulau Ubin offers a rare glimpse of old Singapore. Rent a bike to explore the island, visit the Chek Jawa wetlands, one of Singapore’s richest ecosystems, or simply soak in the serenity of slower-paced life.

Take a Southern Islands tour

Seeking solitude and crystal-clear waters? Escape to the Southern Islands. Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, these islands – including St. John’s Island, Lazarus Island, and Kusu Island – are untouched oases. The pristine beaches of Lazarus Island are perfect for picnics, while Kusu Island offers a chance to explore its unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, from a Chinese temple to tortoise sanctuaries.

Bollywood Farms

Who would’ve thought you’d find a slice of agriculture in high-tech Singapore? At Bollywood Farms, you’ll discover a refreshing take on farming. Tucked away in the Kranji countryside, this heritage farm grows everything from fresh herbs to tropical fruits. Learn about farm-to-table practices, join a workshop, or simply wander its green fields. Don’t forget to stop by the quirky bistro that serves dishes made with freshly harvested produce.

Haw Par Villa

Haw Par Villa is unlike any cultural park you’ve seen before. Once known as Tiger Balm Garden, this Asian heritage attraction is the last of its kind. Featuring over 1,000 statues and dioramas depicting Chinese folklore, myths, and moral lessons, it’s a vivid, and sometimes surreal, narrative of traditional values and beliefs. Most famous is the ‘Ten Courts of Hell’ exhibit, a dramatic representation of afterlife judgment according to Chinese mythology.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve

Escape the concrete jungle and venture into Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Singapore’s first ASEAN Heritage Park. This tranquil spot is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and a critical stopover point for migratory birds. The reserve’s boardwalks and trails take visitors through mangroves, mudflats, and forests, offering the chance to spot mudskippers, herons, and even crocodiles in their natural habitat.

To book your tour of Singapore, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

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