“Seven stories high. Can you feel the anticipation?” That’s the height of the Jelutong Tower. It is an iconic landmark in the heart of MacRitchie Reservoir Park. We’re standing at the foot of Jelutong Tower. Look up.
The Jelutong Tower gets its name from the Jelutong tree. The Dyera costulata is a massive tree. It spirals up to the rainforest canopy. Just like its namesake, the Jelutong Tower stretches high. It offers awesome views of greenery and serene waters. You can see MacRitchie Reservoir and the surrounding jungle.
This steel tower serves hikers. It also provides makeshift shelter from sudden storms. The tower is a welcome break from walking. Climb it while you’re here.
When the trees bloom or bear fruit, the critters come alive. The Malayan Teak tree’s flowers and fruits attract birds, bees, and butterflies. The Broad-footed Carpenter Bee buzzes around. It is the largest of bees. It has a shiny black body. It also has flashy metallic blue, green, or purple wings. It is nicknamed the Gentle Giant. The Plantain Squirrels also love these tasty treats.
Next to the Jelutong Tower stands a Rambutan tree. Before it fruits, its flowers attract butterflies. Spotted Black Crows show off. Grey Sailors dance about. Scarce Silverstreaks and Elegant Emperors join the parade.
Bird watching is great up here too. The Black-winged Flycatcher-shrike sometimes visits. It is a rare sight in Singapore. It might pop over from Malaysia. The Violet Cuckoo sings a soulful tune. It hopes to impress a partner during breeding season. The Chestnut-bellied Malkoha is a showstopper. It has a red eye patch and flashy tail. The Thick-billed Green Pigeon couple met here. The male wears nerdy spectacles and a maroon cape. The female prefers all-green garb. They built their house together in front of the Jelutong Tower.
Spotting the Greater Green Leafbird is like playing Where’s Wally. It blends in with the leaves. A flock of Blue-rumped Parrots swooped around the Jelutong Tower one morning. They debated which cafe to visit. They settled on a distant tree. The Black-headed Bulbul is a rare gem. Its population is confined to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.
Other bulbuls frequent the Jelutong Tower. These include the Asian Red-eyed Bulbul. The Cream-vented Bulbul also makes an appearance.
There are a few ways to hike to the Jelutong Tower. The shortest walk is from Rifle Range Link. It is about 1.6 km one-way. Another route is from Lornie Road trail entrance. It is a pleasant 2.5 km hike. For a longer hike, start from Windsor Nature Park carpark. It is a 3.2 km forest trek. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. You might spot the Chestnut-bellied Malkoha. You could also see the White-bellied Sea Eagle or Red-eyed Bulbul.
Remember the Jelutong Tower. It’s not just a tower. It’s a vantage point. It is a place to connect with nature. It’s a reminder of the beauty around us.