THE TRAILS OF CLEMENTI FORREST

Let’s hike along Clementi Forest, one of the untouched forests in Singapore covering approximately 80 hectares. Located near the western part of Singapore and close to the Clementi housing estate. Exploring this dense forest, hikers will find walking through the narrow path, challenging trails, and crossing the streams of water. The forest is unique because it is one of the few remaining patches of tropical rain forest within the urbanized environment of Singapore. The forest offers a rich ecosystem with a variety of flora and fauna, making it a significant spot for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and bird watchers.From here, visitors will find the old railway track that leads to the underground tunnel up to the Maju Forest. So come on, and get ready as we explore Clementi Forest.

Clementi Forest High Standing Trees

WHERE IS CLEMENTI FOREST

Clementi Forest is located in the western part of Singapore, around the Clementi estate. The forest is situated between the residential districts of Clementi and Bukit Timah. It is also lies across the recently develop rail corridor and the Old Bukit Timah Railway station.

HOW TO GO CLEMENTI FOREST

Entrance To Clementi Forest

Clementi Forest is accessible to the public, and it is a popular spot for nature walks and exploration. The entrance to Clementi Forest is right behind the bus stop opposite Ngee Ann Polytechnic (Bus Stop No.12109). There is a small narrow path right beside the canal that will lead hikers to Clementi Forest. Hikers can also take a shortcut across the Rail Corridor.

DIRECTIONS TO CLEMENTI FOREST

Clementi Forest Map Directions

While hiking along the Clementi Forest, we noticed map directions that lead to Rail Corridor and Clementi Forest. It was previously created by some hikers to help visitors head in the right direction while exploring the forest.

CLEMENTI FOREST TRAILS

Clementi Forest Singapore

The Clementi Forest trail is a relatively rugged and unmarked trail that cuts through a rainforest area around Clementi. Hikers should be prepared for adventurous experience, and expect to have a no clear path along the trails.

Hiking At Clementi Forest Singapore
Canal At Clementi Forest Singapore

The difficulty level of the Clementi Forest trail is considered to be moderate to challenging. The terrain is uneven with muddy slopes, fallen trees, tree roots, and edges of eroding soil hence making it a moderately challenging hike. Hikers are encourage to wear appropriate footwear like hiking shoes and trousers.

Clementi Forest Canal Trails

The trails are challenging, where hikers will expect the trails to be a mix of the land of water. There is a stream of water that needs to be crossed, so expect your shoes and foot to get wet. For visitors who are looking for a challenging route, this will suit individuals’ needs.

Canal Trails At Clementi Forest
Canal At Clementi Forest
Truss Bridge At Clementi Forest

The old truss bridge that connects the old KTM railway.

Trails At Clementi Forest
Log Wood Along Clementi Forest Trails

Thick vegetation of various plants and shrubs will be observed while walking along the trail. Hikers will need to walk along the branches and cross over the fallen trees.

Trails At Clementi Forest
Fallen Trees Along Clementi Forest
Muddy Water Along Clementi Forest Trails

OLD KTM RAILWAY TRACK

Clementi Forest Trails
Old Jurong Railway Clementi Forest

Crossing through the tropical forest, visitors will find the abandoned Railway track that was built during the late 1960s. This old railway serves as the Jurong Railway line which was developed to connect the industrial needs between Singapore and Malaysia. This line serves as a branch of the Railway from Bukit Timah passing Clementi, Ulu Pandan to Jurong estate. The operation was ceased around the 1990’s leading this old railway track to be abandoned since then.

Old Jurong Railway At Clementi Forest

Through the years, there are a number of fallen trees are lying along the ground and some are even blocking along the railway tracks. Since it was not maintained, it left a natural experience over time for visitors hiking along the track.

OLD KTM RAILWAY TUNNEL

Heading through the Clementi Forest, hikers will pass through the tunnel. The Old KTM Railway Tunnel in Bukit Timah is an historical site that offers a unique connection to Singapore’s colonial era and railway infrastructure. The 200 meters in lenght tunnel is made of brick and concrete, with a rustic and distinctive curved shape architecture. feel that contrasts with Singapore’s modern cityscape. The tunnel is located directly opposite Maju Camp along Clementi Road where visitors can head down to the slope right behind the bus stop.

KTM Railway Tunnel
Inside The KTM Railway Tunnel

The tunnel ceased to be in use in 2011 when the railway services were officially moved to the Woodlands Train Checkpoint. Today, the tunnel is part of the Rail Corridor, a 24-kilometer stretch of the former railway line that has been repurposed as a nature trail. Visitors can take the great photo opportunity while enjoying the surrounding nature.

MAJU FOREST

Fallen Trees Along Maju Forest
Maju Forest Rock Formation

After passing through the Old KTM Railway Tunnel, the trails will lead to Maju Forest. Maju forest is part of Singapore’s larger network of nature reserves, offering a quiet and serene environment for visitors to explore. Walking through Maju Forest, hikers will experience a mixed path of rocky and muddy soil.

Maju Forest Trails

The forest contains various species of plants, trees, and animals. Hikers may spot common wildlife like monkeys, squirrels, and a variety of butterflies and birds.

OLD RAILWAY TRACK NEAR CLEMENTI

KTM Railway At Clementi

The old railway track along Clementi Street 14 and Sunset Way, passes through the Jurong Railway line bridge. This old rustic place is a reminder of a piece of history of the old railway track in Singapore.

FRIENDLY REMINDERS

Caution Fallen Trees At Clementi Forest
  • The trail has minimal signage, it is important to be cautious and keep on track of your location.
  • Recommended to go as team with at least 3 to 4 persons.
  • The trail can be muddy, especially after rain, so bring waterproof/sturdy footwear if possible else better visit during the dry season.
  • It is important to follow Leave No Trace principles by avoiding litter and respect the wildlife and plants.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Exit Sunset Way At Clementi Forest

Clementi Forest was a good place to check for visitors who are looking for a good adventure and challenge somewhere off the beaten track in Singapore. Hikers expect that shoes will get muddy due to the streams of water that need to be crossed. Hiking through the trails, there number of fallen trees along the way, and it was such untouched beautiful natural scenery. It highly recommends avoiding visiting the forest the day after it rain, or possibly during the period where there is no rain. The trails can be muddy and slippery which makes it dangerous to hike along the way. Best also to hike early morning where the sun rays just started to shine together with the beautiful mist of fog from the forest. Overall it is worth exploring this untouched dense jungle in Singapore.

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the gees travel

A wife and a mother of three toddlers | Previously working as customer service executive in a logistics supply chain | working at home mom. But in spite of this added responsibilities I still find time to travel and explore together with my family.

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