Clementi Forest
Not sure where to go next on your adventure in Singapore? Not to worry, we got you covered here! Clementi Forest, hidden somewhere between Clementi Road and the Green Corridor, just opposite Ngee Ann Polytechnic, lies a trekking trail that not many people will know until recently. A misty forest with towering trees and lush green vegetation as high as a person.
It is not the usual concrete forest we see around Singapore and the site is currently being zoned as “Residential (Subjected to Detailed Planning)” since the Master Plan 1998. On 4th Jan 2021, MND shared that there is no immediate need to develop the site for housing. They will retain the zoning of the site, while giving our future generations the option of deciding whether to use it for housing, if the need arises.
Before any concrete plans are made for Clementi Forest, it’s best to enjoy this hiking trail as it is now, largely untouched by man. As this is not a regulated hiking trail by Npark, please take note of safety while walking through this path. It’s best that you head down with at least 1 other hiking partner. (that’s the max you can have anyway now)
Before You Start
Hike Time: About 30 mins from Point A to Point B.
It’s another 1hr 30mins from Point B to Point C to exit at Sunset Way. (We will cover Point B to C in the next article as a separate trail)
Preparation: There will be lots of tall grasses and muddy pathways, so it’s best to be in your long pants and trekking shoes for this hike. Only for the most adventurous as we are talking about ankle deep mud! (For the Old Jurong Rail Part at least) The morning dew will get your pants slightly wet as you walk through the tall grass, so take note! Bring a bottle of water along as well to hydrate yourself along the way.
Directions (Getting Started)
Starting off from bus stop 12109, just opposite Ngee Ann Poly, you will see a lush greenery that seems to lead to nowhere… follow down the path a little further. (check out the purple arrows)
As you walked into the forest, the surroundings changed very quickly from one of concretes and metal to that of a forest. From here, look right and you will be greeted by water lilies.
Directions (Into The Forest)
After about 10 mins into the trail, the pathway starts to get covered by tall grass, don’t worry, the pathway should still be somehow noticeable.
As we move further in towards the green corridor, the water lilies can no longer be seen, as it is now covered by a field of greenery. Pretty cool sight in Singapore right? Careful walking on the edge of the pathway as its muddy and you might slip if you miss a step.
As you continue the pathway, you will reach a small enclose area. Remember to turn around and check out the magnificent view and pose for some photos. You will also notice an abandoned well on your left side when you are in the area.
Directions (The Crossing)
Carry on the pathway, and you will arrive at a little stream. Don’t try to jump across it, as the soil is pretty loose, instead walk down the slope and cross via the little stream. Once there, just head up the slope and you will see the green corridor really soon. Yup, that’s my hiking buddy, so just follow his lead.
Once you cross that little stream, you will see this small path leading upwards. Once you exit, you will leave Clementi Forest and will have reached the Green Corridor!
Directions (The Green Corridor)
Take a breather, enjoy the open space, hydrate yourself. Take a little snack to replenish yourself as well. The next 60 to 90 mins will be a different experience as we continue the trek along Old Jurong Rail. Stay tune for our next trail where we share with you a whole new world. Check out our gif below!
And since you are going on a hike, why not join me on my 10,000 steps a day, 30 days challenge here.
