SG Nomad Photographer

Southern Ridges Walk: A Photographer’s Paradise on One of The Hidden Places in Singapore

A wide-angle view from the forest floor looks straight up into a sprawling network of massive, winding branches. The "crown shyness" of the trees is visible as the leaves almost touch, framing patches of the bright white sky above.

Written by

Ethan Chua

in

December 19, 2025

Last updated: December 31, 2025

In the quest for unique photo opportunities, photographers often search for the best Singapore hidden spots, seeking vantage points that offer a fresh perspective on our city. The ‘red dot’ may be small, but it hides a wealth of attractions beyond the obvious.

Most visitors who visit Southeast Asia, specifically in Singapore, would go to theme parks, Pagoda Street, East Coast park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, Little India, Yunnan Garden, or even Nanyang Lake. This is because they believe that the interesting things in visiting Singapore is going to the places that can be seen in plain sight. But I would like to think that those places that can be seen by venturing off the beaten path should be the priority of most tourists.

I’m talking about the Southern Ridges Walk, a so-called short walk (if you’re used to the long walks of Singapore, that is) trail that remains surprisingly under the radar for most visitors, despite its incredible photographic potential. It’s a location that seamlessly blends nature, architecture, and stunning city views, making it a true hidden gem for any photographer.

This guide will walk you through why the Southern Ridges is a photographer’s paradise. We will explore its key features, uncover the best spots for jaw-dropping photos, and provide practical tips to help you make the most of your visit.

What is the Southern Ridges Walk?

A metal mesh bridge with high safety railings cuts through a thick, sunlit jungle. The perspective draws the eye down the path, which is completely enveloped by tall trees and dense bamboo.

The Southern Ridges is not just a single park but a magnificent 10-kilometer-long connector trail that links five distinct parks in the southern part of Singapore. The result is an unbroken journey through some of the most beautiful and varied landscapes the country has to offer, from dense secondary rainforest to manicured gardens. As part of Singapore’s extensive network of parks and green spaces, the Southern Ridges stands alongside other notable natural attractions such as Bukit Timah and Bukit Timah Nature Reserve, both renowned for their biodiversity and scenic outdoor experiences.

What truly sets the Southern Ridges apart are its iconic architectural features. The trail is famed for its stunning pedestrian bridges, designed to elevate visitors into the canopy and provide breathtaking views. The most famous of these is the Forest Walk, a raised walkway that cuts through the forest canopy.

Why It’s a Photographer’s Paradise as a Hidden Gem

The sheer variety of photo opportunities makes the Southern Ridges a dream location. It’s a place where you can spend an entire day shooting and never run out of subjects.

For landscape photographers, the trail offers unparalleled sunrise and sunset shots. The elevated vantage points look out over the city skyline, the bustling harbor, and the lush greenery, providing a perfect canvas for the golden hour light. The contrast between the “urban jungle” of concrete and the literal jungle of the parks creates a powerful and uniquely Singaporean narrative.

Nature lovers can switch to a macro lens and capture the rich biodiversity. The trail is home to a wide array of flora and fauna, including various bird species, squirrels, and countless insects. The dense canopy of the Forest Walk and the lush foliage of Telok Blangah Hill Park are perfect for capturing the intricate details of the natural world.

Best Spots Along the Trail for Photography

This landscape features a calm lake bordered by a dense, vibrant green forest under a clear sky. A prominent red bridge or pier extends into the water, providing a sharp color contrast against the natural greens and blues.

While the entire trail is photogenic, certain spots are simply unmissable. Here are some of the key locations to have on your checklist when exploring hidden places in Singapore. For an even more authentic experience, consider hiring a local guide or booking a private tour to uncover unique sights and stories along the Southern Ridges.

Henderson Waves

As the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore, Henderson Waves is the star attraction along the Southern Ridges. Its undulating form creates beautiful leading lines and dynamic compositions, making it one of the best hidden gems for photographers.

  • Photography Tip: Shoot during the golden hour to capture the warm light hitting the wooden slats and steel curves. At night, the bridge is illuminated with soft LED lighting until 2 AM daily, creating a fantastic opportunity for long-exposure shots against the city lights and Marina Bay Sands skyline.

Forest Walk

This elevated metal walkway meanders through the secondary forest of Telok Blangah Hill Park, putting you right at eye level with the canopy and local wildlife.

  • Photography Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the scale of the walkway as it snakes through the trees. The repeating patterns of the walkway structure create strong graphic elements. Look for moments when the sun filters through the leaves, creating beautiful light rays.

Alexandra Arch

Connecting HortPark and Telok Blangah Hill Park, this bridge is known for its striking leaf-like design and nightly light show.

  • Photography Tip: The main event here is the light show. The bridge’s LED lights change colors from 7 PM to 12 AM. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to capture the color transitions in a single frame for a vibrant, abstract shot.

Mount Faber Peak

One of the oldest parks in Singapore, Mount Faber Peak offers iconic panoramic views of the city center, including the bustling port and the high-rises of the Civic District.

  • Photography Tip: A telephoto lens is your friend here. Use it to compress the scene and isolate interesting details in the cityscape or harbor. This is a classic spot for sunset and blue hour cityscapes.

When visiting Singapore, make sure to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions like Marina Bay and the CBD skyline. The Southern Ridges Walk is a must-visit for those who appreciate both nature and art deco architecture, and want to experience Singapore’s parks away from the tourist crowds.

For those interested in more hidden places in Singapore, nearby attractions such as Pearl’s Hill Terrace and Fort Canning Park offer additional opportunities to explore narrow streets, rich history, and local food stalls. These locations pay homage to Singapore’s past and provide a quieter alternative to the busy city center.

If you plan to visit the Southern Ridges, consider starting your journey near the bus stop at Mount Faber or Telok Blangah Hill Park for easy access. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the great food and drinks you can find at hawker centers nearby, and enjoy the blend of nature and urban life that defines this unique trail.

Exploring the Southern Ridges is a fantastic way to go off the beaten track and discover some of the best hidden gems in Singapore, including the hidden quarry views at Seng Chew Quarry and the artful street art near Koon Seng Road. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or photography enthusiast, this trail offers something special for everyone.

When to Visit for Best Light

This upward-looking shot captures the intricate, dark patterns of thick tree branches against a backdrop of bright green leaves. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, creating a dappled effect and highlighting the texture of the bark.

Timing is everything in photography. To make the most of the Southern Ridges, aim to visit during the golden hours, which are roughly from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM for sunrise and 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM for sunset. The early morning often brings a soft, misty quality to the air, which can add a wonderful atmosphere to your forest shots.

Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you want clean shots of the bridges without too many people in them, a weekday morning is your best bet. Keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Practical Tips for Photographers

This landscape features a calm lake bordered by a dense, vibrant green forest under a clear sky. A prominent red bridge or pier extends into the water, providing a sharp color contrast against the natural greens and blues.
  • Recommended Gear: A versatile zoom lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for all-around shooting. Also consider bringing a wide-angle lens for landscapes and architecture, and a telephoto lens for cityscapes and local wildlife. A tripod is essential for low-light and long-exposure work, especially to capture the illuminated Henderson Waves and Marina Bay Sands skyline.
  • Trail Difficulty: The trail is mostly paved and well-maintained, with some inclines and a few sections of muddy trails. It’s a relatively easy walk, but the full 10km can take 3-5 hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for both paved paths and natural terrain.
  • Access: There are multiple starting points. For a shorter, high-impact walk, you can start near Henderson Waves or the bus stop at Mount Faber. Public transport is convenient, with bus stops located near most of the main entry points. The Southern Ridges is located deep in the southern part of central Singapore, making it accessible from the city center.
  • Amenities: Toilets and water fountains are available at the main parks like Mount Faber Park, Telok Blangah Hill, and HortPark. However, there are long stretches of trail without them, so carry enough water. Nearby, you can find hawker centers and food stalls offering delicious street food, perfect for refueling after your hike. A hawker center is a must-visit for authentic local food. Popular hawker centers near the Southern Ridges include Tiong Bahru Market and Airport Road Food Centre, both known for their vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of local dishes. At these hawker centers, you’ll find options like a cai png shop for hearty rice meals, handmade curry puffs, and a classic drinks stall for simple refreshments. For a nostalgic dining experience, seek out a makeshift canteen or the Boh Geh Uncle Canteen to enjoy a taste of Singapore’s past.
  • Safety: The paths are well-lit at night, but it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings. Bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to shoot around sunrise or sunset. The Southern Ridges offers a unique blend of nature and art deco architecture, making it one of the best hidden gems in Singapore for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Why Such Hidden Gems in Singapore Deserves More Attention

A wide stone staircase with silver handrails leads upward into a tunnel of tall, slender bamboo stalks. Modern spherical street lamps line the path, blending urban design with the surrounding natural greenery.

In a city constantly reinventing itself, the Southern Ridges stands as a testament to thoughtful urban planning and the integration of nature. It offers photographers a chance to tell a different story about Singapore, one that moves beyond the urban facade. This is one of those Singapore hidden gems that provides a complete photographic journey, from epic panoramas to intimate nature details, all within a single, accessible trail.

Exploring such hidden gems offers insight into Singapore’s past, including historical sites like the former Seletar Camp, which once played a role in military logistics to supply oil to the Royal Air Force. Some of these unique spots are located on public property, and certain areas in the far west of Singapore remain off the radar for most visitors, making them especially rewarding to discover. It’s a place that rewards exploration and offers a quiet escape from the city’s hustle.

Conclusion

The Southern Ridges Walk is more than just a trail; it is a sprawling, dynamic studio for photographers. Its blend of stunning architecture, lush forests, and epic viewpoints makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the diverse beauty of our city. As a hidden place in Singapore, it offers a sense of discovery and the chance to create truly unique images. So, pack your camera bag, charge your batteries, and go explore this incredible gem. You will not be disappointed.

Have you shot at the Southern Ridges? Share with SG Nomad Photographer your favorite spots and photos!

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