Want to capture breathtaking waterfalls without leaving Singapore? You’re in luck!
Unbeknownst to the average traveller (or even some locals!) Singapore boasts a surprising variety of waterfalls, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems nestled within lush greenery.
Whether you’re seeking a dramatic backdrop for your next Instagram post or simply a tranquil escape from the city bustle, this guide will unveil the best waterfalls Singapore has to offer.
1. Jewel Rain Vortex at Jewel Changi Airport
Want to capture breathtaking waterfalls without leaving Singapore? You’re in luck!
Unbeknownst to the average traveller (or even some locals!) Singapore boasts a surprising variety of waterfalls, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems nestled within lush greenery.
Whether you’re seeking a dramatic backdrop for your next Instagram post or simply a tranquil escape from the city bustle, this guide will unveil the best waterfalls Singapore has to offer.
Behold the Jewel Rain Vortex – the world’s tallest indoor waterfall, cascading through the heart of Jewel Changi Airport. At 40 metres high, this majestic waterfall is a sight to behold for its sheer size and captivating beauty.
Photography tips:
- Capture the waterfall from different levels within Jewel for unique perspectives.
- Experiment with wide-angle shots to capture the entire waterfall and its surroundings.
- Include elements like the SkyTrain, Canopy Park or Shiseido Forest Valley into your shot for some extra visual interest.
- Visit during the evening light and sound show for an extra magical experience.
Operating hours: 11:00am - 10:00pm Monday to Thursday, 10:00am - 10:00pm Friday to Sunday including Public Holidays
Light & Music Showcase showtimes: 7.30pm, 8.00pm, 9.00pm Monday to Thursday, 7.30pm, 8.00pm, 9.00pm, 10.00pm Friday to Sunday, Public Holidays, Eve of Public Holidays
2. The Wonderfall at Changi Airport Terminal 2 Departure Hall
Snapped your photos of the Jewel Rain Vortex and want to move on to the next waterfall? You won’t have to go far! Another captivating waterfall awaits within Singapore Changi Airport: The Wonderfall at the revamped Terminal 2.
This digital waterfall’s dynamic and ever-changing display makes it the perfect background for a last set of photos before catching your flight, without worrying about getting your outfit wet.
Photography tips:
- Play around with dramatic zooms or camera angles to capture every angle of the digital cascade.
- Don’t just stop at photos – take a video and listen to Rhythms of Nature, an original composition from neo-classical pianist-composer Jean-Michel Blais that plays in time with The Wonderfall’s mesmerising movements. This four-minute long show runs every half an hour, bathing the spot with its soothing sounds.
Operating hours: 24 hours daily
3. Waterfall Cavern at Mandai Wildlife WEST
Venture into the Waterfall Cavern at Mandai Wildlife WEST and immerse yourself in a tropical paradise. Located in the public area, this outdoor waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and the distant, yet compelling, chirps and squawks of birds just a few steps away at Bird Paradise.
You might even see some wild birds strutting around so be quick to capture a unique photo with wildlife in the foreground and the waterfall as a stunning backdrop.
Photography tips:
- Use a zoom lens to capture close-up shots of the birds near the waterfall.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions.
Consider joining a guided tour at Bird Paradise, Singapore Zoo, River Safari, or Night Safari to learn more about the birds and animals that populate such wet and wild habitats.
4. Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay
Tropical heat getting to you? Step into the Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay and be awestruck by its majestic indoor waterfall. This breathtaking conservatory recreates a tropical montane environment, complete with lush greenery and a cool, misty atmosphere.
Photography tips:
- Capture the waterfall from different levels within the Cloud Forest for varying perspectives.
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive view of the waterfall and surrounding greenery.
- Experiment with long exposures to create dreamy effects with the softly swirling mist all around you.
5. Serene Garden at Gardens by the Bay
Find your inner peace at the Serene Garden, a tranquil outdoor oasis that’s one of the free attractions in Gardens by the Bay! This Japanese-inspired garden features a picturesque waterfall surrounded by meticulously pruned trees and rugged stone structures.
Photography tips:
- Use the surrounding elements, like the bonsai trees and lanterns, to frame your shots.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, diffused lighting without too much overhead sun.
6. Rain Oculus at Marina Bay Sands
From Gardens by the Bay, take a walk towards Marina Bay Sands to marvel at the Rain Oculus, a modern waterfall nestled within the Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. This unique architectural feature starts outside the Shoppes, with water cascading down a 70-foot acrylic bowl and falling two storeys down to an awaiting indoor pool.
Photography tips:
- Experiment with different angles to capture the waterfall’s circular design.
- Use the reflections in the water to create abstract compositions.
- The waterfall cascades on the hour, so wait for the perfect moment to capture it in motion for a truly dynamic shot.
7. Ginger Garden at Singapore Botanic Gardens
For an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, take a wander through the Ginger Garden at the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This tranquil oasis features a gentle waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and diverse ginger plant species.
Photography tips:
- Focus on capturing close-up shots of the vibrant ginger flowers with the waterfall as a backdrop.
- Use a macro camera lens to highlight the intricate details of the flowers against the wild rush of the waterfall.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for soft, diffused lighting.
8. Fountain of Wealth at Suntec City
Technically the Fountain of Wealth is – as its name suggests – a fountain, and not a waterfall. However, being the largest fountain in the world, its cascading waters deliver a waterfall-esque experience right in the heart of Suntec City.
This massive water fountain is meant to symbolise prosperity and abundance. It’s said that visitors hoping to benefit from its bounty should approach the indoor fountain, make a wish, put their hand into the water, and walk around it three times while repeating the wish.
Photography tips:
- Capture the fountain from different angles to highlight its circular design.
- Include people in your shots to showcase the fountain’s scale.
9. Yunnan Garden at Nanyang Technological University
A hidden gem lies in wait within Nanyang Technological University (NTU): the serene Yunnan Garden, featuring a tranquil waterfall and Chinese-inspired landscape design. This peaceful oasis offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life – and away from the busyness of the city too. If you’re looking for a nature escape into Singapore’s heartlands, the Yunnan Garden’s the perfect choice. Plus, with the Singapore Tourist Pass Plus’ unlimited public transportation, journeying to NTU in Western Singapore will be a breeze.
Photography tips:
- Frame the waterfall with the surrounding greenery for a nature-focussed, serene composition.
- Use a polarising filter to reduce glare and enhance colours especially if you’re experiencing midday sun.
10. Sheraton Towers
All this islandwide exploring working up an appetite? Make a reservation at The Dining Room at Sheraton Towers to enjoy lunch or dinner with a waterfall view. A waterfall surrounded by lush greenery sits right outside the restaurant, making you feel like you’re in an exotic resort – while still being right in the heart of the Orchard Road shopping district!
Photography tips:
- Include the surrounding greenery and pool in your shots for a sense of place.
- Visit during the evening when the waterfall is illuminated for a magical ambiance.
Singapore’s waterfalls offer endless opportunities for capturing stunning photos that transport you to far-off lands without ever leaving the city.
Whether you’re seeking the grandeur of the Jewel Rain Vortex, the waterside elegance of the Rain Oculus, or the cultural aesthetics of the Yunnan Garden, there’s a waterfall waiting to be discovered and captured in your next IG-worthy shot.
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