Fort Canning Park

Fort Canning Park is a green hill in the middle of Singapore's city centre. It is full of history, from the rulers of ancient Singapura to British colonial times and the Second World War. Today it is a peaceful park with gardens, old buildings and shady paths, and entry is free.

It is easy to reach from Orchard Road, Clarke Quay and the Civic District. Many visitors walk through it on the way between these areas.

A short history of Fort Canning Park

Historians believe the hill was home to the rulers of ancient Singapura in the 14th century. It was once known as Bukit Larangan, or Forbidden Hill. Archaeologists have found pottery and other objects from this early period on the hill.

In the 1820s, Stamford Raffles built a house on the hilltop and set up an early botanical garden. Later in the 1800s the British built a fort here, which gave the park its name. During the Second World War, British forces used an underground bunker on the hill as a command centre.

What to see and do

The park is large, but the main sights are close together. Follow the signs and maps to find these:

• The Battlebox: the wartime bunker, now a museum with its own tickets.
• Restored gardens: themed gardens such as the Spice Garden, Raffles Garden and Sang Nila Utama Garden.
• Fort Gate: an old gateway that remains from the 19th-century fort.
• Keramat Iskandar Shah: a shrine said to mark the grave of a ruler of ancient Singapura.
• The tree tunnel: a spiral stairway seen from below through a round opening, popular with photographers.
• Fort Canning Green: a large lawn bordered by old gravestones from a colonial-era cemetery.

The keramat is a sacred site. Please dress modestly, keep your voice low and follow any signs. The open lawns are also used for concerts and festivals at times, so some areas may be closed for events.

How to get to Fort Canning Park

Several MRT stations are close. Fort Canning MRT station on the Downtown Line and Dhoby Ghaut MRT station are both a short walk from the park. Clarke Quay MRT station is also within walking distance.

The park sits on a hill, so expect stairs and slopes. Some paths are gentler than others, so check a map if you have a pram or wheelchair. If you are new to the trains, read how to use the MRT in Singapore.

Tips for visiting

• Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it is cooler.
• Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as there are stairs and slopes.
• The Battlebox has its own tickets and opening times, so check before you go.
• Be quiet and respectful at the keramat.
• Bring insect repellent, especially after rain.

Food and things to do nearby

The park links many of the city's top sights. The Battlebox is inside the park. Close to the foot of the hill you will find the National Museum of Singapore, the Peranakan Museum and the Armenian Church. Walk down to the river for the restaurants and lights of Clarke Quay.

For a meal, browse restaurants in City Hall and Clarke Quay. National Kitchen by Violet Oon is a good choice for local heritage dishes. To stay right in the park, look at Hotel Fort Canning, set in a colonial-era building. See more hotels in City Hall and Clarke Quay.

For more green spaces, see our nature and parks list and our parks and gardens guides. Budget travellers will also like our 20 free things to do in Singapore list.

FAQs about Fort Canning Park

Is Fort Canning Park free to visit?

Yes, the park is free. The Battlebox is a separate attraction that charges for entry.

How long do I need at Fort Canning Park?

One to two hours is enough to walk the main paths and gardens. Add more time if you visit the Battlebox.

What is the nearest MRT station?

Fort Canning and Dhoby Ghaut MRT stations are both close. Clarke Quay MRT station is also within walking distance.

Is Fort Canning Park good for families?

Yes. Children enjoy the open lawns and the play area at Jubilee Park, and the history makes for good stories.