Newly-Opened Thomson Nature Park Lets You Spot Banded Langur Monkeys & Rare Sambar Deer
There’s no need to cross borders to explore natural forests and safaris.
On Friday (11 Oct), National Parks announced the opening of the Thomson Nature Park which boasts of rich wildlife and biodiversity. The 50-hectare forest is home to rare animals like the Banded Langur Monkey, Sambar Deer and Bubul Birds.
If you’re tired of hanging out in shopping malls, here’s a new destination in the North you can head to for a breath of fresh air.
Three Forest Trails
Located on the premises of a former Hainanese village, the opening of Thomson Nature Park is a step to reconnect to and preserve our cultural heritage.
The forest is filled with lush green trees connected by rope bridges and underground culverts that allow wild animals to roam freely.
National Parks worked closely with the original residents to determine which trails visitors can wander. Guests can explore five trails such as the Stream and Ferns Trail, Ruins and Figs Trail and Ferns Trail, Langur Trail and Macaque Trail. The 5 trails span 3.8 kilometres and are designed to go around the former village’s road network.
Singapore’s city life features high-rise buildings and condominiums which is a big departure from the kampung life of our ancestors. We imagine elderly grandparents can reminisce and tell stories of their childhood while strolling with their grandkids.
Wildlife Safari
The 50-hectare park is home to animals like the Malayan Porcupine, Banded Langur, Sambar Deer and Mousedeer.
For the uninitiated, the Banded Langur is a sky monkey that can only be found in Singapore. There are estimated to be only 60 langurs alive and we’re curious to know if these monkeys will grow to have a big fanbase like our otters.
Otherwise, keep your eyes peeled on the trees and you may find a straw-headed bulbul perched on a branch.
The sambal deer is a rare find and we wish that they’ll be able to meet and greet guests. Here’s to hoping we can run as gracefully as these animals while traipsing over branches during a hike.
How to get to Thomson Nature Park
Locals can visit the Nature Park by booking a Grab or riding the bus.
Those opting for public transport can take bus 138, 138A, 167, 169, 860, 980 and alight at at Upper Thomson Road near Aft Tagore Dr. You can also ride bus 138, 167, 169, 860, 980 and alight at Upper Thomson Road near Bef Tagore Dr.
Thomson Nature Park
Opening Hours: 7am – 7pm daily
Carpark Opening Hours: 7am – 7pm daily (no overnight parking)
Website: National Parks
Thomson Nature Park is a new getaway to get in touch with local wildlife and contemplate life in a kampung village. Make sure to come with friends and family who can help you spot animals.
Featured image from Facebook.
