What if you could step into a living classroom? That is exactly what the Learning Forest offers. It is located within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. The Learning Forest isn’t just a collection of trees. It’s a carefully designed landscape. It integrates seamlessly with the existing rainforest. Together they create an enlarged forest habitat.
The Learning Forest covers 10-hectares in the Tanglin-Gallop Core of the Singapore Botanic Gardens. This expansion strengthens the conservation of Singapore’s flora and fauna. It also acts as a reference point for ongoing research into restoration ecology.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong opened the Learning Forest on March 31. The Learning Forest is now home to diverse wildlife. Over 100 bird species reside here. You can also spot 20 species of amphibians and reptiles. Butterflies flutter around with 19 different species. Mammals roam with at least 7 species identified. Plant life thrives with over 500 species.
One highlight is the Keppel Discovery Wetlands. Keppel Corporation donated $2.08 million through the Garden City Fund. These wetlands showcase freshwater forest wetland habitats. Ecological design shaped these habitats. They also feature a collection of over 200 plant species. The Keppel Discovery Wetlands honor the Singapore Botanic Gardens’ historic discoveries. Some plants are even named after the Gardens’ botanists. Boardwalks and trails offer easy exploration. You can enjoy an engaging outdoor learning experience.
The SPH Walk of Giants is another must-see. SPH co-funded this elevated boardwalk with a $1.2 million donation through GCF. It presents some of Southeast Asia’s tallest trees. These trees can reach at least 60 meters. That equals about 20 stories high. The 260-meter boardwalk rises to at least 8 meters. This height allows close encounters with mature trees and young forest species. The Canopy Web provides a unique experience. You can feel like you’re up in a tree.
The Learning Forest also displays a variety of plant collections. Discover 30 Asian bamboo species. Explore over 50 wild fruit tree species. See trees with unusual shapes and barks.
The Learning Forest is open daily from 5am to 12 midnight. Note that the SPH Walk of Giants and Keppel Discovery Wetlands close from 7pm to 7am. This helps to maintain a suitable habitat for wildlife. Free guided tours are available every Saturday at 9am. Register at Visitor Services at the Tyersall Gate 15 minutes before the tour.
Take the HPL Canopy Link. This pedestrian bridge connects the Learning Forest and Gallop Extension. This offers a great view of the bambusetum. It ascends into the canopy of a recreated lowland deciduous forest.
Explore the Wild Fruit Trees Arboretum. It features wild relatives of familiar species. These include Soursop, Jackfruit, Lychee and Mango families.
Don’t miss the Bark of Trees feature. It showcases the diverse textures and colors of tree bark. The Products of the Forest collection displays forest plants used by humans. They include timber, building materials and food.
Finally, consider the Durian Theory. This area features tree species that inspired E.J.H. Corner’s theory. Corner believed many plants descended from trees with large fruit like durians. The Learning Forest blends education with nature. It provides an immersive experience for everyone.