Morning Calm at Mandai... A Breezy Walk Along the Boardwalk

This morning, I realized it had been way too long since my last visit to Mandai Wildlife Reserve. So we did what we always say we’ll do (but rarely follow through): wake up early, catch the cooler hours, and head out before the sun turns the whole walk into a sweaty challenge.

Editing my original photo using Sora

We started our morning at Khatib MRT station, where the shuttle bus to Mandai is surprisingly easy to find. I used to think the shuttle was free, but it’s actually SGD 2.50 per ride, and honestly, I’m totally fine with that. We only waited around 10 minutes, then it was about 25 minutes of travel, rolling away from the familiar city roads and slowly into greener, quieter surroundings.

The first thing that caught me off guard (in a good way) was how much the area has improved. The buildings look modern and polished, and the landscaping around them feels intentional, like Mandai is quietly stepping into a new era. The entrance area already feels like part nature park, part thoughtfully designed destination. We passed by the newer spots (and yes, some parts do require tickets), but we chose the simplest plan: the Mandai Boardwalk, because all we wanted was a slow walk, a wide view of the water, and a morning that didn’t feel rushed.

We made our way straight to the path leading to the boardwalk while the sunshine still felt gentle. From the entrance, there’s a small framed “window” where you can peek at the beginning of the boardwalk, one of those accidental photo moments where the view is already composed for you. Of course, I had to stop and take photos. Sometimes a good framing is all it takes to set the mood for the rest of the walk.

The boardwalk itself had a calm kind of energy. Plenty of people were there too, some walking in groups, some doing a quiet solo stroll. It didn’t feel crowded, just lively enough to remind you this place is loved.

And then came one of the funniest (and most Mandai) moments: right near the entrance, I spotted a big lizard casually sunbathing on top of a drainage cover like it owned the place. No fear, no urgency, just pure “morning routine” vibes. I swear the wildlife here doesn’t even try to be subtle.

As we continued, I noticed how well-maintained everything was. The plants and trees are lush, but they’re also neatly separated from the walking path, which makes the stroll feel safe and comfortable. You get the full jungle atmosphere without feeling like you’re battling it.

What I loved most was how clear the water looked along the banks. You can see large stones placed strategically to prevent erosion, and because of that, the shallow edges stay clean and calm. I saw fish moving near the banks, and even turtles hanging around like tiny locals.

But the highlight, no exaggeration, was spotting a stingray gliding through the shallow water, hunting small fish.

https://youtube.com/shorts/SHFK7SnTAvU?si=dk8Mg-aY3kuijY6-

Seeing that kind of wildlife just living its daily life in the open felt genuinely exciting, like I stumbled into a nature documentary for a few seconds.

And through all of this, there was a consistent breeze flowing along the boardwalk. That breeze is the secret ingredient. It turns a simple walk into something relaxing, almost restorative, like the whole place is designed to make you slow down.

By the end, I felt the same thought settle in: I’m definitely coming back. If you’re looking for an easy, refreshing weekend walk, something scenic, peaceful, and full of little surprises, Mandai Boardwalk is absolutely worth your morning.

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