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Singapore harbors a hidden natural gem!
Think Singapore is just about artificial landmarks and urban hustle? This article will make you 'rethink' that notion!
Pulau Ubin – A Natural Haven Next to Modern Singapore!
When Singapore comes to mind, it's often associated with modernity, towering skyscrapers, or sprawling shopping districts. However, unbeknownst to many, right next to glamorous Singapore lies a wild and incredibly beautiful natural island. That's Pulau Ubin, where you can step back in time to the bygone eras of the previous century. Currently home to around 200 residents engaged in agriculture, quarrying, or catering to weekend tourists.
Pulau Ubin resembles a boomerang, spanning approximately 10.2 km2 in area. Positioned northeast of mainland Singapore, in the Johor Strait, it houses fewer than 100 households. Despite its proximity to the mainland, visiting Pulau Ubin feels like exploring ancient Singapore. Most of the island's land remains lush forests, and many houses still exhibit traces of traditional architecture. Until a few years ago, Pulau Ubin lacked electricity, with residents primarily relying on generators due to the exorbitant costs of extending power lines. However, in recent years, islanders have transitioned to solar energy systems.
Changi Ferry Terminal
How to Get to the Island:
- Take bus 02 or 29 to Changi Village. These buses are closely linked to the MRT station and are frequented by many.
- Changi Ferry Terminal is the last stop for Bus 02. Board the ferry once there are 12 passengers. The journey takes 20 minutes.
- From Changi Ferry Terminal to Pulau Ubin island, the boat ride takes just 5 minutes, costing $3 SGD for one-way travel. If you bring your own bicycle, the fare is $2 SGD per bike.
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When traveling in Singapore, I recommend purchasingfor convenient use of trains and buses here. Singapore's transportation network is highly integrated, so I advise getting the card in advance through Klook for better deals and seamless travel.
What to Do on Pulau Ubin?
The name of the island, which means 'Granite Island,' is no surprise considering the numerous granite quarries found here. Situated in the northeastern waters of Singapore, this offshore isle has been developed into a nature park. Most of the island's natural environment is preserved, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in a rustic ambiance surrounded by granite quarries, coconut and rubber plantations, mangrove forests, prawn farms, and traditional 'kelong' houses used for fishing.
Pulau Ubin Welcome Gateway
Pulau Ubin Map
To immerse in the pristine natural atmosphere here, you can hike or bike around. There are bike rental spots in the village. There are about 3 bike rental shops here, so you can negotiate the rental prices. When I went to the first shop, they quoted $10 per bike, but when I went to the second shop, it was only $5 per bike. The bike trails have been upgraded with amenities like rest stops and toilets along the way. You can also embark on a nature exploration or organize overnight camping trips here, listening to birdsong, capturing photos of wildlife, fishing, kite flying, hill trekking, and more.
Bike Rental Spots
The locals here still reside in old wooden houses with tin roofs. They cook using firewood, without modern appliances like motorcycles or refrigerators. When asked why they don't use gas stoves for cooking, the elderly residents here explained that for decades, they've been living this way, with plenty of firewood in the forest, so they don't need gas or electric stoves, which they consider wasteful.
Shaded Forest Trails
When visiting Pulau Ubin, don't miss out on Chek Jawa area, the safe haven for marine creatures like clams and sea cucumbers – a round-bodied sea creature belonging to the sea star family. This coastline is also home to lush seagrass beds, mangroves, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life. You can leisurely bike along shaded forest trails, with surprises hidden on both sides waiting to be discovered. At noon, you can dine and rest at a restaurant on the island. If you wish, you can also visit some local households. Most of these people are very friendly and open, they can tell you many interesting stories about life here. In the evening, you can camp with your family on the island. If you're accustomed to the hectic pace of daily life, a night spent under the starry sky, surrounded by forested hills with the sound of the sea breeze and chirping insects, is an experience worth trying.
Sea Port Bridge at Chek Jawa
Pulau Ubin serves as an ideal destination for those who cherish serene, tranquil, and authentic natural spaces. Steer clear of the bustling urban scene, set aside modern technology for a few hours, and experience a slower pace of life—it's truly rewarding! Hopefully, Ubin will offer a beautiful experience for your trip to Singapore.
Mangrove-Lined Wooden Path
Pocket Guide for Those Planning to Visit Pulau Ubin:
- Despite its simple living and distance from modernity, Pulau Ubin doesn't lack tourist services like camping grounds, turtle conservation beaches, spa resorts...
- If you're unsure about accommodation, consider the Celestial Resort on the southwest coast of the island or opt for homestays in the last village known as 'kampong' (which means village in Malay).
- Jetstar and Tiger Airways land directly at Terminals 1 and 2 (Changi Airport), making travel convenient via the MRT.
- The island's center boasts many mangrove forests. If camping is on your agenda, consider the northern part of the island.
Self-Guided Singapore Tours, No Worries with Klook
Big thanks to Trần Thị Như Quỳnh for the incredibly helpful solo travel review. Hope you'll have many more exciting journeys in the near future.
#teamKlook hey there, planning a trip to Singapore? Don't forget, Klook offers a plethora of day tours/services/experiences for you to explore to your heart's content. And that's not all, there's a whole bunch of travel tips, tricks, and solo travel experiences waiting for you on Klook's Blog. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring now!
