Shreya Nair
Image credit: Keppel Hill Reservoir
Spend your weekend by visiting the lesser explored regions around Singapore! Located at Mount Faber, the Keppel Hill Reservoir is an adventure-filled and often “forgotten” tourist spot. It’s presence dates back to the colonial-era.
The reservoir is around one-third the size of an Olympic swimming pool and is about 20 meters long. There are creeper plants, trees, and exciting trails that surround the reservoir. This makes it suitable for both trekking and sight-seeing.
History and Rediscovery
The reservoir is known to have a long history. It was initially a water source and then became a swimming pool for the British and Japanese soldiers.
The reservoir began appearing on maps in 1905 and was used as a water supply for ships. However, it later also made news headlines for several incidences, including the drowning of young British soldiers.
A researcher at the National Heritage Board (NHB) rediscovered the abandoned reservoir in September 2014. The rediscovery was revealed to the public in the form of a video documentary.
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Getting There
The path to the reservoir makes for a perfect trekking trail. This path also includes other interesting landmarks such as an underground bunker and a Japanese Tomb.
The starting point of the trail to the reservoir is located near the Seah Im Open Carpark. The route along the trail is quite uncomplicated and is often filled with exposed tree roots and fallen branches. The unevenness of the trail makes it a venturesome but exhilarating experience.
The underground bunker is located at the very beginning of the trail. Upon exiting the bunker, the path continues to become steep and narrow further uphill and ends at a Y-junction. However, there are easier options to reach the Y-junction through the main road.
The route then continues into a long puddle of debris-filled water. This then leads to a trail that ends at the entrance of the Keppel Hill Reservoir. A small flight of stairs to a possible diving board and another flight of stairs into the reservoir are some of its features.
The reservoir then separates into two different paths, one that leads to a Japanese Tomb and the other to Mount Faber Park.
Places like this reservoir cater to locals and tourists alike to head outdoors and visit historically significant areas. This reservoir is a great spot for history lovers and trekkers looking for an adventure.
