Looking for unique places to visit or wondering what to do in Singapore? Lace up your walking shoes and get ready to explore Singapore’s Rail Corridor, a 24km green passage that seamlessly integrates city life with nature’s tranquillity.
Far from a mere long stretch of concrete path, the Rail Corridor is an invitation to cycle, jog, or simply soak in the diverse landscapes and attractions that stretch from the serene stretches of Spooner Road up to the bustling central hubs and the northern reaches of Kranji.
Along this scenic route, you'll find everything from rich heritage at the Bukit Timah Railway Station to lush stretches near Clementi Forest, offering a refreshing retreat right in the heart of the city. The corridor is divided into three main stretches: the North (10km), the South (10km), and the Central (4km) stretch, each offering different landscapes and levels of difficulty to cater to all types of nature enthusiasts, from the young adventurer to the old.
So, join the adventure and see how this iconic trail is the ultimate adventure that weaves in new sights and unique experiences.
1. Rail Corridor (South)
Who could forget the massive farewell at Tanjong Pagar Railway Station back in 2016? Over 30,000 people gathered to say goodbye, marking the end of an era for a key terminus of our beloved Rail Corridor.
Now, with the station closed for renovations, the story of the Rail Corridor continues to unfold along its approximately 10km southern stretch. Away from the hustle near the highways, the path meanders through the serene Clementi Forest—a true jungle escape where skyscrapers are replaced by towering trees.
This section offers a slice of adventure, with its muddy trails and fallen trees providing a rugged escape for those looking to venture off the beaten path. It’s a true hidden gem, largely untouched and perfect for those seeking a bit of wilderness.
But wait, there’s more! The southern stretch isn’t just about quiet walks; it’s evolving with new parts like the recently opened Buona Vista node. Such additions are redefining the area, turning what was once considered the 'least interesting' part of the Rail Corridor into a must-visit highlight.
Buona Vista community node
Looking for things to do in the West of Singapore? Look no further than the Rail Corridor’s Buona Vista node, just unwrapped in 2024.
Sitting cosily at the crossroads of North Buona Vista Road and Commonwealth Avenue, this 1.6-hectare marvel is the new hotspot in town.
At this new node of the Rail Corridor, explore a world of activities. Flex your muscles or find your zen in the sprawling 900sqm 'plug-and-play' area under the North Buona Vista Link viaduct—perfect for your fitness fix. Kids can also frolic over to the whimsical children's playground peppered with biophilic designs that blur the lines between nature and play.
This new community node is not just a pretty space. It also features a 500sqm lawn doubling as an outdoor event haven, ready to host anything from yoga mornings to starlit movie nights. Stroll along paths lined with vegetated, shallow water-filled ditches that mimic the historical marshland landscapes of the Rail Corridor, and keep your eyes peeled for the critically endangered plants such as Lepironia articulata and the sleek narrow-leaf cattail.
Perfectly positioned near The Metropolis and the upcoming Elementum, and a stone’s throw from Buona Vista MRT interchange, the Buona Vista node is a gateway to greenery, heritage, and boundless fun for everyone!
How to get to Buona Vista community node:
By bus: Take 74, 91, 95, 100, 105, 106, 111, 147, 185, 191, 196, 198, or 200 and alight opposite Blk 43.
By MRT: Exit at Buona Vista MRT Station. From there, head towards Exit D and proceed to enter the node via accesses near The Metropolis.
By car: Parking facilities are available at The Metropolis.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Holland Green Linear Park
Ready to keep trekking north from the bustling Buona Vista node? Gear up because you're still not halfway through the Rail Corridor! Your journey continues as you approach the serene stretches of Holland Green Linear Park, which links the Rail Corridor with the future Ulu Pandan West Nature Park.
Traverse across the Bukit Timah Diversion Canal, where the park’s man-made waterfall awaits—a favourite among photographers. Across from the water’s cascade, the expansive green field offers a perfect picnic spot or a chance to capture that Instagram-worthy sunset shot.
And as you leave the lush Holland Green behind, the trail leads directly to the historical Old Bukit Timah Railway Station—marking the transition from the Southern to the Central section of the Rail Corridor.
How to get to Holland Green Linear Park:
By bus: Take 165, 75, 61, 7 or 156 and alight at Ulu Pandan Road.
By MRT: Exit at Dover MRT Station. From there, head towards Ulu Pandan Road. Alternatively, alight at King Albert Park MRT, and head towards Bukit Timah Road.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
2. Rail Corridor (Central)
Next, you've got the central stretch of the Rail Corridor, which is perfect for anyone looking for a scenic and straightforward route. It is, after all, known as the most walkable part of the trail. This accessible 4km section extends from Bukit Timah Railway Station on Bukit Timah Road to Hillview Road near Hillview MRT.
Having reopened in 2021 after extensive renovations, the central stretch of the Rail Corridor is not only rich with historical features, including steel bridges and preserved railway tracks, but is also where accessibility meets leisurely strolls. Why, you ask? The pathway between the Bukit Timah Truss Bridge and Upper Bukit Timah Truss Bridge, previously closed for enhancements, now provides a smooth and inviting walkway for visitors—perfect for every walker, whether you're a brisk morning jogger or an evening leisure seeker.
Old Bukit Timah Railway Station
Immerse yourself in the nostalgic charm of the Bukit Timah Railway Station, a historical gem right in the heart of the Rail Corridor. Once owned by Malaysia and returned to Singapore in 2011, this conserved station is more than just a transit spot—it's a portal to the past.
Fresh off a two-year restoration, the station now houses a heritage gallery where you can dive deep into its rich history. Visitors can engage with original train operation equipment like track switching levers and a meticulously replicated signals diagram, all of which bring the vibrant history of the station to life.
As you soak up the echoes of the past, don't miss the stunning views of the Bukit Timah Truss Bridge, another iconic landmark that shares its tales of yesteryears.
How to get to Bukit Timah Railway Station:
By bus: Take 67, 74, 77, 151, 154, 157, 170, 174, 852, 961, 961M, or 970 and alight at King Albert Park MRT Station.
By MRT: Exit at King Albert Park MRT. From there, head towards Exit A and proceed to walk along Bukit Timah Road to reach the Rail Corridor entrance.
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Hindhede Nature Park
Right next to the grand Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, Hindhede Nature Park offers a gentle retreat with trails perfect for family jaunts, curious kids, and budding hikers.
As you wander, keep your eyes peeled for playful plantain squirrels, the dramatic swoop of the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, or the striking Banded Woodpecker. For the little adventurers, they can conquer climbing frames, swing into fun on the ziplines, and more at the park’s vibrant playground located mid-trail, about halfway to the lookout point.
And don't miss the scenic Hindhede Quarry with its stunning rock cliffs and tranquil waters—ideal for your next family photo or serene selfie.
How to get to Hindhede Nature Park:
By MRT: Exit at Beauty World MRT.
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 7:00pm
Dairy Farm Nature Park and Singapore Quarry
Just a stone's throw north of Hindhede Nature Park, head straight to Dairy Farm Nature Park.
Once bustling with dairy cows, this park now brims with rich biodiversity. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or indulging in educational endeavours at the Wallace Education Centre, there’s something here for every nature enthusiast.
At the Wallace Education Centre, you can also engage with interactive exhibits about nature’s marvels, celebrating Alfred Russel Wallace, a key figure in the development of natural selection theories.
Don’t miss the Singapore Quarry, a transformed granite quarry that is now a peaceful lake. Follow the historic trail and stroll over to the picturesque Singapore Quarry Bridge. Its scenic cliffs and waterside views offer a picturesque escape, making it a fantastic spot for some family fun or a serene solo retreat. Ideal for bird watching, spot the Stork-billed Kingfishers or dragonflies zipping over tranquil waters—just don’t forget your sunscreen!
How to get to Dairy Farm Nature Park:
By MRT: Exit at Hillview MRT Station.
Opening Hours: 7:00am to 7:00pm
How to get to Singapore Quarry:
The Singapore Quarry is situated in Dairy Farm Nature Park. Get there with a 30-minute hike.
Opening Hours: 8:00am to 6:30pm
Upper Bukit Timah Truss Bridge
Right next to the Rail Mall, the Upper Bukit Timah Truss Bridge is a snapshot of history married to modern-day buzz. Built in 1932, the bridge is more than just a pathway that stands as a testament to past engineering. After a recent spruce-up, this bridge is now a prime spot for photographers and selfie-seekers alike. From cyclists whizzing by to hikers taking a breather, it’s a hub of activity framed by the lush greenery of the Rail Corridor Central.
Linking directly to the start of the Green Corridor hiking trail, the bridge offers a scenic starting point for your adventure or a picturesque pause in your journey. Whether you’re starting here or have managed to make your way up from the South stretch, grab a refreshing drink from nearby cafes at Rail Mall and toast to trails yet trekked.
How to get to The Rail Mall:
By bus: Take 67, 75, 170, 171, 178, 184, 961, or 961C.
By MRT: Exit at Hillview MRT Station.
By car: Parking facilities are available at The Railway Mall.
3. Rail Corridor (North)
Buckle up for an invigorating journey through the Rail Corridor (North), a refreshing 10km stretch from Hillview MRT to Kranji MRT. This northern trail offers a revamped experience boasting an enhanced trail that stitches together over 21km of lush, uninterrupted North-South connectivity.
Explore this northern stretch through 12 newly minted access paths, ending conveniently at the new Kranji node. This part of the corridor has been thoughtfully transformed, now featuring state-of-the-art amenities that cater to nature lovers, fitness enthusiasts, and community gatherings—where connectivity meets recreation.
Kranji node
If you've trekked or pedalled from the Upper Bukit Timah Truss Bridge all the way up, congrats—you've reached the Kranji node, a gem tucked away right across from Kranji MRT station.
Step into the sprawling new 2,000sqm events field, a fresh hub for community fun. This area is ringed by a charming 250m nature trail, a perfect prelude or wind-down pathway surrounded by lush native flora. As you wander through the nature trail, expect to see towering Geronggang trees and brush past aromatic Malayan Eaglewood.
Be sure not to miss the new bridge and lookout deck along Hillview, offering stunning views draped in green and a seamless connection that weaves the old railway charm into modern trek-friendly paths.
How to get to Kranji Node:
By bus: Take 160, 170, 170X, 178, 925, 925M, 960, or 961 and alight opposite Kranji MRT Station.
By MRT: Exit at Kranji MRT Station, and cross the pedestrian overhead bridge.
By car: Parking facilities are available at Singapore Turf Club.
Ready to embark on a green adventure through Singapore's revitalised Rail Corridor? With the Rail Corridor now stretching from lush sanctuaries in the north to dynamic community nodes in the south, every step invites a new discovery.
Exciting developments are on the horizon, too, including the upcoming node under Queensway Viaduct set for completion in 2027, the restoration of the historic Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, and the transformation of the former Bukit Timah Fire Station into a bustling community hub by mid-2025. Each of these projects promises to enhance the Rail Corridor’s appeal, weaving even more cultural and recreational opportunities.
So, grab your sneakers or jump on your bike and set off on an exploration of this sprawling urban oasis. Whether you're an ardent nature lover, or simply on the lookout for fresh things to do in Singapore with the family, the Rail Corridor promises a treasure trove of experiences.
Enjoy your adventure!
For more updates on Changi Airport, follow on Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram, X, Telegram and YouTube. You can also sign up for a Changi Account and have the latest news and articles delivered right into your inbox.