The Istana (or "palace" in Malay)
is built on an old nutmeg plantation and was the former official
residence of the representative of the British Crown. Today,
the Istana is the official residence of the President of Singapore,
and the public gets to walk its expansive grounds only five
times a year.
Classical in style, ranging from the ornate Victorian Renaissance
to the simpler Roman Classical with touches of Gothic, Chinese,
Malay and other influences, the Istana is indeed an imposing
building.
Walk the stately grounds and be impressed by the gardens
where the superintendents of the Singapore Botanic Gardens
have personally planted most of the rare plants. Lay your
picnic mat, listen to the marching rhythm of the brass bands
and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Open: Accessible to the public only on selected dates of
the year. Please click here for the latest updates.
Location: Orchard Road
Getting there: Take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station (NS24)
and walk across Orchard Road. Click here to view MRT route
map.
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