Kebun Bahru Birds Singing Club - 8.2km hiking walk

Singapore - On this day, I walked from Serangoon Garden to Kebun Bahru Birds Singing Club which is located at Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West.   

Nestled in the heart of Ang Mo Kio, Singapore, the Kebun Bahru Bird Singing Club is a hidden gem that offers an enchanting experience for bird lovers and curious visitors alike. I recently had the pleasure of spending half a day at this unique club, and I was captivated by the vibrant community, the melodic symphony of bird songs, and the fascinating cultural traditions that make this place so special.

Using my GPS, I was able to walked and find this Bird singing club.  I walked through AMK Industrial Park 2 and they had a community farm.   

AMK Industrial Park 2 community farm

I walked through this underpass (under the CTE) towards AMK.  

Underpass

From the moment I arrived, I was greeted by the cheerful chirping and harmonious singing of hundreds of birds. The club, which is situated in a serene park setting, is home to an impressive array of bird species, each housed in meticulously crafted cages that hang from tall poles. These cages are more than just enclosures; they are works of art, reflecting the care and pride that bird owners take in their feathered companions.

The bird singing tradition has deep cultural roots in Southeast Asia, particularly within the Chinese community. It is believed that listening to bird songs can bring tranquility and joy, making it a cherished pastime for many. At Kebun Bahru Bird Singing Club, this tradition is kept alive and thriving. The club regularly hosts competitions and events, where birds are judged on their singing abilities, and owners take immense pride in their birds' performances.

Competition 

Visiting the Kebun Bahru Bird Singing Club was an unforgettable experience. It offered a glimpse into a world where nature and culture intertwine, creating a haven of harmony and beauty. Whether you're a bird enthusiast or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, this club is a must-visit destination. The melodic bird songs, the vibrant community, and the rich cultural traditions make Kebun Bahru Bird Singing Club a truly special place.

15km Hiking Trail from Tanjong Pagar Railway station to Biopolis Drive

Singapore - Met Edmund at his condo at 9am and off we went from Bishan MRT and alighted at Raffles Place MRT.  We walked through the quiet Saturday morning of business district and reach Tanjong Pagar railway station.   

There were a number of old Malaysian railway houses and hope this will be kept as nostalgia.

old Malaysian railway houses

We came across the last reminder of the Malaysia Railway station with the sign 'SINGAPURA'.  The weather was scorching, and we found ourselves sweating profusely under the intense heat, but the experience was well worth the effort. This journey was not just a walk through Singapore's lush greenery, but also a walk through history, capturing the transformation of the old Malaysian railway land into a vibrant public space for all Singaporeans to enjoy.

SINGAPURA signboard

Bashing through the thick foliage

We managed to reach the railway park corridor and it starts at Spooner Road.   An interesting history of the Malaysian railway in Singapore dates back to 1903 when the railway line from Johor Bahru to Singapore was first opened, marking the beginning of a vital transportation link between the two regions. 

The Tanjong Pagar Railway Station, officially opened in 1932, served as the southern terminus of the Federated Malay States Railway (FMSR). This grand station, with its distinctive architecture, became a bustling hub for passengers and goods moving between Singapore and the Malay Peninsula.

The corridor starts from Spooner Road

start of the long hike to Bukit Timah

Southern Railway Corridor

We walked from Tanjong Pagar Railway station to Biopolis Drive.

In a landmark agreement in 2010, Malaysia and Singapore reached a deal to relocate the Tanjong Pagar Railway Station to Woodlands and to hand over the railway land to Singapore. This agreement marked a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. The final train departed from Tanjong Pagar on June 30, 2011, marking the end of an era. The land, once a bustling railway corridor, was now a canvas for new possibilities like vegetables farming....

An iguana lost his way

This park corridor is teaming with interesting wild life.  Walking along the corridor, we were surrounded by lush vegetation and the sounds of nature, a stark contrast to the urban hustle just a few kilometers away. The corridor is not just a trail; it's a living museum. Remnants of the railway, such as old tracks and bridges, have been preserved, allowing visitors to step back in time and imagine the trains that once rumbled through.

We exited at Biopolis Drive to have our Apam at Ghim Moh hawker center with a big cup of refreshing sugar cane juice.

Masala Tosai

Egg Appam

After our delicious brunch we headed toward Buona Vista MRT bound for Bishan MRT.   It was a fun adventure.   We pray for Edmund's father health.   

Numbers 6:24-26 

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord makes his face shine upon you and be gracious to you;  the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace."

Walk from Katong to Katong Park @ Fort Road

Singapore - Today was one of those delightful days filled with unexpected encounters and culinary adventures. I had planned to have lunch with Lesley and Edmund, but little did we know the day would hold a pleasant surprise. As we rode the bus, we were astonished to see Lesley descending from the upper deck just as we were about to alight. What perfect timing! Our destination was Creamier East Coast, where they are collaborating with the Flying Fish Club to bring a unique dining experience.

having our delicious lunch

It was a long wait for the chef to cook up our meals.  

Fried Chicken & Waffles

Signature Fish & Chips

Spicy Fish and Chips

I ate the Signature Fish & Chips and it was battered nicely - the fish was deliciously crispy on the outside, soft and fresh on the inside.   A very satisfying meal.  

Since we still have a good appetite, we walked down Katong Road to 'Birds of Paradise' which is a Singapore-based ice cream shop.  This charming street is known for its vibrant mix of old and new, with heritage buildings standing proudly alongside modern eateries and boutiques.  Birds of Paradise,  renowned for its botanical-inspired flavours, offers a unique ice cream experience that draws inspiration from nature. We savoured every bite of their delightful creations, each flavour a refreshing escape from the day's heat.

Our journey continued towards Fort Road, a name that piqued our curiosity. Why is it called Fort Road? 

Katong Park

This road was named after Fort Tanjong Katong, a historical military fort built in the 19th century. The fort was constructed to protect Singapore's eastern shores against seaborne attacks. Although the fort was eventually abandoned and forgotten, its legacy lives on through the road that bears its name. 

Remnants of the old Fort

Interestingly, the fort's remnants were discovered by our friend Jack Sim, affectionately known as Mr. Toilet for his global sanitation advocacy. Jack's discovery has sparked interest in reviving and preserving this historical site, adding another layer of significance to our walk down Fort Road.

Our day was a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. From the serendipitous meeting with Lesley on the bus to the unique flavors at Creamier East Coast and Birds of Paradise, and finally, the historical insights at Fort Road, each moment was a reminder of the rich tapestry of experiences that Singapore offers. 

Sumptuous burger @ Avante Hotel

 Petaling Jaya - I was feeling hungry as I skip breakfast to come to Avante Hotel for the PIKOM Cybersecurity event.  It was a long wait for the chef to cook up this burger but the wait for worth the while as it was one of the best burger I had in a long time.

RM$ 30

About S$9 for this delicious burger - yummy! and also a good view.

roof top restaurant

Lunch @ Puchong famous - Restoran Tangkak Beef Noodles

Puchong - Walked around the area near my hotel and came across this beef noodles.   

Tangkok Beef Noodles

This family business started from a small stall serving Tangkak people with their herbal and spices broth beef noodles until today’s 8 outlets in total and all these outlets are still managing by Mr. Hon’s sons and daughter. This branch remains their typical red colour for the entire outlet.  

Renowned for its flavourful broth and tender beef slices, this eatery delivers a satisfying bowl of noodles that is both hearty and comforting. The broth is rich and savoury, infused with a depth of flavours that comes from hours of simmering beef bones and spices. The noodles are perfectly cooked, offering a delightful chewiness that pairs well with the succulent beef.

Signature beef noodles

The star of the dish, the beef, is incredibly tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth, and is complemented by a generous serving of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. The variety of beef cuts, including brisket, tendon, and tripe, allows diners to enjoy different textures and flavours in one bowl.

Restaurant posters everywhere

The ambiance of the restaurant is simple and unpretentious, focusing on the food rather than frills. The service is efficient, I was the only diner at this restaurant.  

Walk up to Bukit Timah from MacRitchie

Singapore - The trek from MacRitchie Reservoir to the Bukit Timah Summit was an exhilarating journey that tested both endurance and willpower. Tackling Route 3, known for its difficulty and length at 1.8km, was no easy feat, but the experience was deeply rewarding. Bukit Timah Hill, standing at 163.63 meters, is a modest peak by global standards, but it holds a special place in Singapore's heart as the highest natural point on the island.  

With its challenging slopes, verdant greenery, and rich biodiversity. Bukit Timah Hill and its nature reserve are beloved by trekkers and nature lovers of all ages. The summit's accessibility and charm make it a favourite destination for families, adventurers, and even young children seeking to conquer its trails.

Reaching the Summit

The final stretch to the summit was the most gruelling. The gradient increased significantly, and every step felt like a test of endurance. Despite the physical challenge, the sense of anticipation kept us going. There was a shared camaraderie from Edmund as he encouraged me along the way.

When we finally reached the summit of Bukit Timah Hill, the sense of achievement was indescribable. Though modest in height, the summit felt like the top of the world in that moment. The summit marker, a simple stone inscribed with the elevation, became the focal point for celebratory photos and high-fives.

Standing at 163.63 meters, we took in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The sight of the sprawling forest, with the cityscape peeking through in the distance, was a powerful reminder of Singapore’s unique blend of nature and urban development.

Climbing down the summit, was a small exhibition area about Bukit Timah.

We continue on the railway park connector towards Woodlands.

Unused train marker - Tanjong Pagar

We kept walking and came across Diary Farm Nature Park.  A small man-made lake in the middle of Bukit Timah Reserve.

Diary Farm Nature Park

From Diary Farm Nature Park, we walked to Beauty World to have our dinner.   It was a long and tiring walk, enjoyed it very much.