SCC Nature Trail Walk to Fort Canning

SCC Nature Trail Walk

– to Fort Canning Park

25 September 2021

Our Nature Walking Group had a change of scene, shifting from nature parks in the farthest corners of Singapore, to an urban locale in the vicinity of SCC. A strong turnout with 11 Members ( + one canine), gathered in high spirits at the Clubhouse entrance on the cool and slightly overcast morning of 25 September. Beginning from the SCC itself and walking in groups of two with 1m safe distancing, we soaked in the rich historical urban landscape surrounding the Padang on the way to Fort Canning.

Starting at the Gothic Gates near the Christian Cemetery, many more beautiful sights of colonial architecture awaited us as we explored the sites along the perimeter route. Among the interesting structures we saw were the Fort Gate, Nine Pound Cannon, Raffles House and Terrace, and the Fort Canning Hill Lighthouse replica. The hill boasts a rich history which goes back to the 14th century as the abode and resting place of the local Malay kings. Fort Canning was known as Bukit Larangan (Forbidden Hill) and we saw the Karamat (shrine) – a tomb believed to contain the remains of the fifth and last Malay king, Sri Sultan Iskandar Shah. Having completed the main walking routes, we walked downslope on the spice garden trail. It was fun trying to identify the variety of plants, fruits and spices we encountered such as nutmegs, black pepper, cardamoms, cloves, turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, lime and mint.

On our homebound journey, we walked along the Singapore River, a route filled with the sights and symbols of old and new Singapore, and were eventually back at the cozy Clubhouse of SCC. We covered about 5.5 km and it was a wonderful way to spend a leisurely Saturday morning.

(Written by Ramesh I Shahdadpuri)

Chestnut Nature Park photos (28 August 2021)