So this is SUNGEI BULOH
So this is it! After the near 30 minutes car ride (I was told it would be faster, if we didn’t get make so many detour), we arrived safe and sound at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. As it is the only wetland reserve we have here in Singapore, it has to be the best right? Although the contrary is hence also true, I pray upon my lucky star that it is the former. Still, growing up within the concrete city which is supposed to be ‘CLEAN AND GREEN’ has taught me to not expect too much of our country when it comes to nature.
Nature = Wild growing trees, wild animals, things you see on natural geographic.
You know? The whole package! Not those stick-thin sad looking shrubs they are planting around our housing estate. So yeah, I must admit, I wasn’t expecting too much from Sungei Buloh. I feared it would be one of those touristy rubbish you see in places like Sentosa with its ‘man-made this and man-made that’
BUT BOY WAS I WRONG. When we first step into the reserve we were greeted with a great sight:
How many times in your life have you seen a tree with red leaves in Singapore? Almost never.
Beyond that bridge, we are immediately greeted with mudflats which flanked our path. On the mudflat, we saw our first monitor lizard! Wild creature alert! It was then when it struck me that I am really, truly and undeniably in close proximity with nature. It was also then I realised a big fat mosquito is enjoying the taste of my blood. Seriously, do prepare insects repellent when you go to the reserve.
Upon entering the observation hut, we are struck with an awesome view of yet another mudflat. This time we get to see birdies. They are (according to the information on the wall) not your usual sparrow and pigeons but migratory birds.
Inside the little wooden hut, it is really quiet. I think the words to use would be serene and tranquil. It is surprising how refreshing it was. Just us, the rain, the trees and those oh-so-cute birdies.
There are altogether 3 routes in the reserve. They are called route 1, route 2 and route 3. Not the most creative names but the views and natures they offer are fantastic. Route 1 is the shortest, followed by 2 and then 3 (which would take 4-5 hours!). Of course, we being enthusiastic, eager and energetic youths chose the shortest one.
Sungei Buloh is a place I never knew existed in Singapore. I mean I know there is a Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve but I never truly knew it is a place so beautiful and peaceful. If you are someone who is sick of all the bustling of the city, irritated by all the loud noises, getting jumpy and stressed with your work, then Sungei Buloh is for you. Its tranquility and pure beauty draws you into a retreat where you can escape from reality for just a little while.
It is a place I will definitely return to. This time, I’ll bring my mosquito repellent.
Damian Gan
SPROUT! member
