T15 trail

Description

Located in the lush green surrounding, around the central catchment area, T15 is a lovely trail for amateurs as well as for pro hikers. This trail is filled with dense greenery and windy breezes. A perfect hike for nature lovers of all age groups. “Mandai ” means that it is remote or abandoned. The trail is not curated or crafted like some trails you’ll find in Singapore. It is also a little rough, then some other trails. Amateurs can experience nature in its true glory and raw form. Pro hikers will have the time of their lives walking these dense paths. You will discover, Oriental Whip Snake, Sambar deer, macaque/monkey, wild boar and more.

Tips

The T15 area is located near various Singapore Armed Forces training sites. Hence, you will encounter abrupt sounds and several signage advising you to stick to the path. If you ever catch a strange, sickeningly sweet scent, it might not be a flower at all, but a used smoke grenade. Therefore, beware and avoid entering spots where signs have been put up. The path can be muddy at places, wear appropriate footwears.

• ● Carry sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water to keep you hydrated.
• ● The trail is 4.4 km long. Even though the surface is flat there are some slopes you will have to encounter.

How to reach there:

There are multiple options to explore this trail:

• Option 1: Take the bus from your location (as suggested by google) and get down at the bus stop nearest to the junction of Mandai road and Mandai lake road crossing. Cross the mandai lake road & Enter the trail from the Walk towards the Chestnut Nature Park.
• Option 2: Take public transport to Bangkit or drive to Block 253/273/276 on Bangkit Road. Enter Zhenghua park and walk towards the underpass below the highway (BKE) , enter the hiking trail and walk towards Chestnut observatory tower, follow Gangsa track to T15. Make sure to follow the signage. This option is a convenient option for those driving, as there is ample area available for parking in HDB blocks.
• Option 3: If you want a longer hike, park at Chestnut Nature Park, and walk towards the observation tower, followed by Gangsa Track. Refer to the map given below.

Washroom Location -

There are no washrooms on these trails. So, be careful of consumption of water or any other drinks. If you are starting your hike from Chestnut Nature park, washrooms are available near the car Parking.

Best spots to take pictures -

Chestnut Observation Tower will be a majestic background for your photo dump. The area where bamboo trees proudly stand basking in their unmatched glory. (attach link to photos)

Best route to follow -

The route highlighted in green for the first time. If you go there repeatedly you can explore the trails leading to the water catchment area. Watch out for monkeys because you don’t want to mess with relatives of our ancestors.

Suggested route to follow

First walks are always special. The route highlighted in green is for the first timers. For subsequent visits, you can explore the trails leading to the water catchment area. Watch out for monkeys on this section near the water catchment area. Avoid eating or drinking anything in front of the monkey as they may be starving. Insert the route for first timers Seasoned hikers who wish to have longer hike (more than 10 km) can cover the Ulu Sembawang sunrise point/Mandai Park at the same time.

Best spot to relax (tea/snacks)

The route barely has any uphill climb resulting in less sweating. You can relax near the turning point sipping your preferable drink or munching on your favorite snacks. There are few sheltered spots/fallen tree trunks to take a break.

Best nearby place to have breakfast

1. ● Colony
2. ● Melt Cafe
3. ● Oscar’s
4. ● Sweetspot

Any other tips -

1. Check the weather forecast. Avoid this trail for a few days after it rains or during the rain as it can become slippery and unsafe.
2. Should have nice hiking shoe as Trail is not paved,-

Other Special Info -

This trail is not as popular among the hikers and amateurs as well. You can impress your friends, family and colleagues by introducing them to this adventurous and fulfilling trail. The Mandai T15 trail starts at the junction between Mandai Rd and Mandai Lake Rd at its northern end. The directions are pretty simple to understand. This trail is quite unambiguous compared to others.

Rating 5 stars (This trail is worth the hype and is our most favourite.)

This is our most favorite trail. The reason being its raw form and authentic nature feels. This place feels like a blessing to all the nature lovers seeking to connect with mother nature.