MacRitchie Reservoir, Public reservoir in Singapore.
MacRitchie Reservoir is a reservoir in Singapore that stores over 4,200,000 cubic meters of water and is surrounded by a 20-kilometer network of trails through the surrounding rainforest. The reservoir itself spreads between green-covered slopes and dense tree cover, while wooden boardwalks and narrow paths wind through the grounds.
The facility was built between 1890 and 1894 and takes its name from James MacRitchie, the municipal engineer who oversaw the construction. In the following decades, the government expanded the catchment area to meet the city's growing water needs.
The tomb of Lim Bo Seng stands on the grounds and honors a resistance fighter who opposed the Japanese occupation during the Second World War. Visitors often see joggers and hikers using the forest paths early in the morning to escape the city heat.
Several hiking trails of varying length wind through the forest area, with shorter options for walkers and longer routes for experienced hikers. Early morning hours offer cooler temperatures and better chances to spot wildlife along the paths.
The protected environment hosts over 400 plant species and more than 200 bird species that have settled in the dense forest around the water. Visitors can spot long-tailed macaques, monitor lizards, and various reptiles along the paths with some patience.
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