Bukit Timah Hill

quotes-haven (71)in #nature • 5 years ago

Bukit Timah hill is the highest hill in Singapore – all 164 m or 537 ft of it. That is the highest point on the island. I remember we were told it was 581 ft. in school. I wonder what happened to the other 44 ft of it.

The climb to the top is not too difficult except for a short, steep stretch just after the beginning of the climb. That might prove difficult for the seniors and for those with knee problems. Otherwise, the climb is quite straight forward

There are other tracks branching off to the nearby quarry, nature reserves and other nature hiking tracks.

This is the visitor's center. There is an open window on the bottom right of the building, with someone behind it. The only sign of life. The building looked run down and deserted. I don't know if it is in operation.

The beginning of the climb.

Some people, yours truly included, huff and puff up the hill, some people jogged up the hill.

Ferns.

There are signs along the way on information of the vegetations and the habitat. All very interesting, if you are into nature and wild life.

A sign said that this is a Seraya tree. Scientific name – Shorea curtisii. “This species are fast disappearing from the region. They are targeted by logging companies due to their high value as timber.”

This is a Merombong tree. Scientific name - Pertusadina eurhynco. Older tress of the Merombong show a peculiar trunk formation – the trunk is pock-marked with oblong holes. As these trees grow older, the core of the wood disappears and eventually, the trunk may become a hollow cylinder of lattice-work, a distinct feature which is easily recognised.

I couldn't find the sign for this tree. I have no idea what this is.

Steps leading to the summit.

A boulder informing you that you are at the highest point on the island. The top of the hill is quite unimpressive. No attractions and no lookouts or views. Just a shelter with a couple of seats and these two power antennas, or whatever they are called.

On the day of my visit, there was a group of bird watchers. They had their cameras, binoculars and eyes trained on a certain spot at the top of a tree at whatever was there.

Toilet facilities for those who need to freshen up after a climb, or jog.

At the base of the hill is a car park. On the day of my visit, and a weekday too, the car park was full and there were cars waiting for people to leave. Seems like this is a popular venue.