The main purpose of the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve was to preserve Singapore's primary rainforest, and this has lasted all to way from 1883 until the present. This means that a large proportion of the forest within the reserve is still intact, free from the intervention of man, and thus this is one of the few places in Singapore where one can have a look into the past, back to a time when man had not interfered with the laws of nature.

Despite the high value of land in Singapore, 164 hectares of space has been set aside to house the indigenous flora and fauna of Singapore, many of which can be found only within the borders of the reserve. One of the main attractions in the nature reserve is Bukit Timah hill, standing at 164m, is the tallest hill in Singapore. Composed mainly of granite, Bukit Timah Hill was once an active quarrying site in the mid-1900s and the abandoned quarry has been developed as a park.

Currently, the nature reserve houses more than 840 species of flowering plants and more than 500 species of animals. This undisturbed habitat attracts many people, ranging from students who want to learn more about the rich bio diversity to families who wish to have nice morning stroll.

To facilitate the learning experience, different trails have been setup to allow visitor to maximise their experience during the visit to Bukit Timah Nature Reserve. Volunteers will also carry out free guided tours, which members of the public can participate in, and these follow the trails that have been setup. They will even go as far as to help organise walks if groups come to the nature reserve. With the expert knowledge of these volunteers, the whole journey through the nature reserve will definitely be a fruitful experience.

Information courtesy from the National Parks Board.