The Mandai Boardwalk has thematic entrances such as the Kingfisher entrance. It is inspired by the stork-billed kingfisher, a species that may be spotted along the boardwalk. Photo credit: Mandai Wildlife Group
The new year brings new things to do and new places to explore as a new boardwalk opened at the Mandai Wildlife Reserve on 14 January 2025, offering the public breathtaking views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
The meandering 3.3km Mandai Boardwalk skirts the perimeter of River Wonders and Singapore Zoo and provides visitors with a peaceful space to observe local wildlife along the edge of the Reservoir, and to catch glimpses of some of the animals being cared for inside the Singapore Zoo.
The boardwalk is free to enter daily from 7am to 7pm during day light hours. This public amenity is available outside the ticketed wildlife parks and has been designed with wheelchair-friendly walkways which also accommodate visitors of all abilities and ages.
Guest-of-Honour Minister of State for Trade and Industry, and Culture, Community and Youth Alvin Tan unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the official opening of the Mandai Boardwalk, followed by a scenic stroll. He was hosted by Mandai Wildlife Group’s Chairman Piyush Gupta, along with board members and senior management.
The boardwalk celebrates the fascinating connection between the forest and water ecosystems through five thematic stations and a lookout point along the route. These are inspired by the wildlife that inhabit both environments.
The Tree Frog’s Hangout is named after the native four-lined tree frog, while the Damselfly’s Wing rest station features elliptical designs inspired by damselflies and dragonflies. The Iora’s Nest is designed to resemble the nest of the Common Iora, showcasing their ingenious use of spider webs to weave together materials for nest construction.
In designing the Mandai Boardwalk, the structure was elevated from the banks of the reservoir, where native animals move below. Enhancing the water-edge vegetation was another key focus to attract biodiversity such as birds, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies.
Steps were taken to build around the mature trees on site, and low impact construction techniques were harnessed to reduce heavy equipment. The Mandai Boardwalk closes between dusk and dawn in consideration of nocturnal animals and visitor safety.
The Mandai Boardwalk can be accessed from Mandai Wildlife East and an entrance next to River Wonders from 7am to 7pm daily. Photo credit: Mandai Wildlife Group
Mike Barclay, Group CEO of Mandai Wildlife Group, said: “Our vision for the Mandai Wildlife Reserve has been to create an accessible and inclusive destination that offers a window into the wild, allowing everyone to appreciate nature at their own pace. In addition to our ticketed parks, we are committed to providing freely accessible green spaces with play areas and activities for visitors to enjoy. Mandai Boardwalk users can look forward to unique views across the beautiful Upper Seletar Reservoir, while spotting exciting native species like the straw-headed bulbul and flocks of long-tailed parakeets. The Boardwalk also offers tantalising glimpses of some of the animals being cared for inside the Singapore Zoo, like the Rothschild’s giraffes.”
Visitors can access the Mandai Boardwalk via two separate locations, one near the entrance of River Wonders, and the other from Mandai Wildlife East – a public space that serves as the brand-new gateway to Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders and other upcoming features.
These include the highly anticipated Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree and nature-themed indoor attractions like Curiosity Cove, Exploria, and more.
Mandai Wildlife East will also soon offer playgrounds and more dining options for all to enjoy.
For more information, visit www.mandai.com/boardwalk
