The ultimate guide to Bukit Batok and Bukit Gombak

The serene Bukit Batok Nature Park was developed on an abandoned quarry in 1988. There are lookout points that afford stunning views of the quarry, along with footpaths to cycle and jog on and a moderately easy hiking trail through the foliage. For a bit of history, head to the WWII memorial, which commemorates the location of one of the fiercest battles that took place in Singapore.

The town park is also lovingly called Little Guilin because the main attraction of the park looks similar to that of Guilin in China. The beautiful granite formation sitting in the lake is why most people visit this small nature park in the west side of Singapore. You can walk along the banks of the lake or sit in one of the dome-shaped shelters that overlook the lake to admire the view. 

Not far from the well-known Little Guilin at Bukit Batok Town Park is the abandoned Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park. Just a 10-minute walk from Bukit Gombak MRT station, this is a place you've got to be prepared to get dirty to explore. Two poles beside the bus stop by the edge of the forest are all that marks its entrance, where you'll find manmade stone steps leading up into the park proper. Vegetation has largely overtaken what likely used to be proper trails. Still, the tread of many feet has left enough of a track for the would-be adventurer to follow. Take these up the hill face and you'll come across some highlights: a small well, a crumbling wooden boardwalk framed by torii-like gates, pavilions (we hear there are three in total) – and if you climb up high enough – an open hilltop. 

Little is known about the history of Bukit Batok Hillside Nature Park. People familiar with the area say there used to be a farm on the other side of the park, and some nearby residents have petitioned to keep the regenerating forest intact – a valid concern considering that Tengah, the vast forest facing the nature park, has quite recently been cleared to make way for housing blocks. While it still remains (and fingers crossed that it does for a long time), head down to check out this hidden gem – just bring along your trusty mozzie spray, wear good hiking shoes, and keep your skin covered to protect yourself from the occasional thorny vine. 

There's a new destination for nature-loving Westies, and it's a whole new park at Bukit Gombak. Boasting an elevation of 45 metres above sea level at its highest point, the park also comes with a host of amenities to delight young and old alike. 

Designed to look as naturalistic as possible, the 4.8 hectare hill park will include Bukit Gombak's first dog run, community garden allotments, an upcoming nursery as part of the OneMillion trees movement, as well as a Butterfly Park and scenic views at its peak. To enjoy the best of Bukit Gombak Park, embark on a 400 metres looped hill trek to appreciate a diversity of forest tree species as you make your way to the top. 

Take the kids to the park's new play area, where they can slip and slide on a 5.3-metre-long slide that's been integrated into the site's natural slope, and other nature-inspired play equipment. Otherwise, there are outdoor fitness areas, abundant open spaces, and Whisk and Paddle café for you to while the day away. 

Eager hikers will be glad to know that Bukit Gombak Park is a node in the Bukit Batok Nature Corridor, giving new access to more than 125 hectares of parks and 10km of nature and park connectors. So, lace up those hiking books and clear your calendars to explore the new Bukit Gombak Park and beyond. Find out more at nparks.gov.sg. 

Said to have water with magical properties, Seng Chew Quarry in Bukit Gombak is a product of the mining heydays in Singapore. Only thing is that it isn't as prominent (and as accessible) as the other quarries in Singapore. Though it is not completely a restricted area, it is mostly undeveloped and can be dangerous. The hidden quarry is located behind a residential block of flats in Bukit Gombak. Wear proper non-slip shoes because you have to climb steep hills before you find a huge drain at the top. Follow the drain and Seng Chew is just a short walk away from. Beware of the mosquitoes and tread the muddy trails carefully – but the views are worth the climb.