Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is Singapore's natural history museum. It sits on the Kent Ridge campus of the National University of Singapore, at 2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore 117377. Inside, you can see dinosaur skeletons, a sperm whale and a large collection of plants and animals from Southeast Asia.

It is a good day out for families, students and nature lovers. It is also a useful way to learn about the wildlife you may meet in Singapore's parks.

Why visit the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

The museum focuses on the plants and animals of Southeast Asia. Much of its collection grew out of the old Raffles Museum, which began in the 1800s. Today the museum is part of the university and supports research as well as public learning.

It is a good choice for a rainy day, and children tend to love the big skeletons. Adults will enjoy the detail, from tiny insects to large crabs and birds.

What to see and do

The main gallery is a large hall divided into zones by type of life. Here are the highlights:

• Three dinosaur skeletons: long-necked sauropods that tower over visitors in the main hall.
• Jubi Lee the sperm whale: the skeleton of a sperm whale found in Singapore waters in 2015.
• Biodiversity zones: insects, reptiles, birds, mammals, fish and plants, many of them found in Singapore.
• Heritage gallery: the story of natural history study in the region and the people behind it.

Labels are short and clear. Many explain why some species are now rare and how people can help protect them. Take time to look at the smaller cases too, as they hold some of the most surprising animals.

How to get to the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

The nearest MRT station is Kent Ridge, on the Circle Line. From there, you can walk through the campus or take a short bus ride. Use a map app to find the best route. Our guide on how to use the MRT in Singapore covers fares and lines.

The museum is in the west of Singapore, so plan it as part of a day in the area. Read our guide to Jurong and the West for more ideas.

Tips for visiting

• Check the official museum website for opening hours and tickets.
• Allow one and a half to two hours.
• Visit on a weekday if you prefer smaller crowds.
• The galleries are cool, so a light layer helps.
• Bring a water bottle for the walk from the MRT station.

Things to do nearby

The museum pairs well with other sights in the west. Kent Ridge Park offers forest walks and views towards the port. Haw Par Villa is a short ride away and shows Chinese myths and legends through hundreds of statues. For open space and play areas, try West Coast Park.

For more family ideas, see things to do with kids in Singapore and our family fun list. Museum fans can find more in our museums and galleries guides and the culture and heritage section. On a wet day, our rainy day activities guides have more indoor picks.

FAQs about the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum

Is the museum good for children?

Yes. Most children enjoy the dinosaurs and the whale. Plan short breaks, as the main hall is large.

How long should I spend there?

Most visits take one and a half to two hours.

What is the nearest MRT station?

Kent Ridge MRT station on the Circle Line is the closest. From there, walk or take a short bus ride through the campus.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

Check the official website for opening hours and tickets. Buying ahead can save time at busy periods.