Primary forests in Singapore

A primary forest refer to original, natural forests which were present before the clearing of land for agriculture and development. These forests are dominated by native dipterocarps such as Meranti (Shorea) and Keruing (Dipterocarpus).

While most of Singapore’s primary forests have long been cleared, there are a few remaining patches of primary forests left in Singapore.

Where can we find primary forests?

Located mainly within Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and parts of the Central Catchment, one of the most accessible patches of primary forest is in the Singapore Botanic Gardens at the Rainforest Trail.

Primary rainforest in Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Primary forest in Singapore Botanic Gardens (Learning forest)

Discover some of the biodiversity we can find in our primary forests!

The primary forests in Singapore provide vital habitats for countless species, some of which are unique to our island. Click on the cards below to read more about some of these species.

Long-tailed Macaque

Sunda Pangolin

Sunda Colugo