Friday, July 3, 2015

Pulau Ubin - Singapore's Cycling Heaven

 

Scenic right? You are actually looking at an abandoned quarry in Pulau Ubin. 

Pulau Ubin literally means "Granite Island". Pulau is a Malay word for "island" and Ubin is a Javanese term for "squared stone". The granite stones on the island were used to make floor tiles in the past and were called "Jubin", which was then shortened to Ubin.

Granite quarrying used to be a major industry on the island which was started in the 1800's. Quarrying was stopped when the granite was mined below sea level. To date, Pulau Ubin is one of the last rural areas to be found in Singapore. It is a home to Singapore's last villages or kampongs, add up the rich and preserved wildlife, an untouched nature, abandoned quarries and plantations, what you have is one of Singapore's best tourist attractions.


Changi Point Ferry Terminal
Pulau Ubin can only be reached via 10 to 15 minutes bumboat ride from the Changi Point Ferry Terminal. The terminal is served by bus numbers 2, 29, 59 or 109 and 3 minutes walk from the Bus Terminal. 



Fare is S$2.50 per person, you can bring your own bike for an extra cost. 





To enjoy the island you can walk, hike,  rent or bring your own bicycle, or hire a taxi. Bicycle rental will cost you $8 to $12 which you can use the whole day.

Let me share some of our photos:


Cycling is the best way to explore Ubin. There are so many trails and routes to suit every preference. If you are an adrenaline junkie, you can take an off-road bike ride across the rugged terrain. Off-road routes range from easy to challenging trails.  If not so adventurous, just follow the asphalt road, there are maps everywhere to guide you.




When visiting the island, it a must to bring the following:
  • Comfortable shoes, no flip flops please..
  • Drinking water
  • Snacks (you won't find any shops when you decide to take off-road trails
  • Mosquito repellent
  • Rain gear (it rains every now and then, better be prepared than be stuck in the middle of the jungle)
  • Sun protection
  • Plastic bags or ziplock to waterproof your extra clothes and electronic gadgets
  • Camera and fresh batteries (if you'll have time to stop and snap photos)
  • Phone so you can call emergency numbers if needed


so tired but Happy!!! 



I love nature so for me, this part of Singapore suited me more than the urban jungle it is best known for.  I can't wait to share some of the trails we tried. Till my next post!




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1 comment:

  1. Wooh! Nice tour :) We took the kids on a bike ride round the island some time ago too and here's our account our trip: http://kidsonboard.net/blog/travel-moment/pulau-ubin. I'd love to take them more often!

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