Don’t leaf w/o seeing SG’s Forest Discovery Centre: A Guide [2024]

I’ve been exploring the Singapore Botanic Gardens since I was a kid, so I like to think I’m the go-to guide for this UNESCO gem. Just when I thought I’d seen it all, I discovered Gallop House No. 5, home to the hidden gem that is the Forest Discovery Centre.

This spot is packed with fascinating exhibits on Singapore’s forest conservation efforts. I thought the building was just a relic, but it’s a must-see for anyone who loves forests and their preservation on the island.

And just so that you’re aware of what to expect, here’s a curated guide to the centre!

Things to Know

Address: 5 Gallop Road, Singapore Botanic Gardens
Contact Details: +65 6794 1401
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Admission Fee: Free
Website

How to Get to the Forest Discovery Centre

By Train: Take the train within the Circle Line or Downtown Line and alight at Botanic Gardens MRT Station. The Forest Discovery Centre is located inside the Singapore Botanic Gardens’s Gallop Extension, and it’s a short walk from the station.

By Bus: To reach the Singapore Botanic Gardens, you can take Bus Nos. 7, 75, 77, 105, 106, 174, or 174E to arrive at the Tanglin Entrance. Alternatively, Bus Nos. 48, 66, 67, 151, 153, 154, 156, or 170 will take you to the Bukit Timah Entrance.

By Car: The nearest car parks to the Forest Discovery Centre are available near Gallop Gate and Tyersall Gate. You can only enter through the entrances at Tyersall Avenue or Holland Road if you are bringing a car.

What to Expect at the Forest Discovery Centre

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The Forest Discovery Centre, located in Gallop House No. 5 (Atbara), is Singapore’s oldest colonial black-and-white bungalow. It features extensive exhibits on the island’s forest ecosystems, conservation efforts, and interactive educational displays.

Here, you’ll learn about how the island conserves diverse forests and how the Singapore Botanic Gardens have played a role in keeping the landscapes in pristine condition over the years.

The Tropical Forest Ecology Research Programme is also based here, where researchers study and work to preserve rare flora. For those interested in learning about the importance of conserving Singapore’s diverse forests, this is the place to be!

Tips:

Admission to the centre is completely free! You are also allowed to roam around the balconies and playground for the kids.
Feel free to ask the reception for assistance if you have any questions about the displays. Most of the exhibitions are interactive, anyway!
You’re allowed to use the centre as a backdrop for your wedding photoshoot. Just shoot the Singapore Botanic Gardens an email about your request. Rental fees may apply, as well as the potential closure of the vicinity for exclusive use, but these are all requests you can place in your inquiry!

FAQ

Is the Forest Discovery Centre pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at any section of the Forest Discovery Centre. You may, however, bring your pets to the outdoor lawns just across from the main building but just not inside.

Does the Forest Discovery Centre offer guided tours?

Yes, the Singapore Botanic Gardens management offers guided tours around the Forest Discovery Centre for free. These tours, however, are scheduled every first Saturday of the month only with limited slots and specific times.

If you wish to learn more about their guided tours, you can refer to this page for more information.

Is the Forest Discovery Centre wheelchair-friendly?

Yes, the Forest Discovery Centre is wheelchair-friendly. There are stairs leading up to the entrance of the exhibition, but you can use the ramp to ask the staff for assistance in case you need help entering the building.

Am I allowed to fly drones near the Forest Discovery Centre?

Professionally photography is allowed in the Forest Discovery Centre, but drones may be subject to the approval of the Singapore Botanic Gardens Management. You are required to submit a request at least two days ahead of your shoot date.

Casual photography sessions, however, don’t require submission of requests. You can learn more about the gardens’ filming and photography requests here.

When is the best time to visit the Forest Discovery Centre?

The best time to visit the Forest Discovery Centre is in the morning (as soon as it opens at 9:00 am) because this is when the crowds are few and it’s not too hot to walk around the lawns.

Am I allowed to join the Forest Discovery Centre as a volunteer?

Yes, the Singapore Botanic Gardens encourages students and guests to sign up as volunteers for their multiple public engagements and activities. Volunteering at the Forest Discovery Centre may involve giving tours and facilitating conservation activities.

You may be required to submit a CV and go through an interview process in order to become a volunteer. Aside from the Forest Discovery Centre, you may also be assigned to lend a hand at the other learning and research centres of the SBG.