The Grounds

Set in the heart of Singapore, the Istana is a verdant sanctuary amid our bustling city – a place where history, nature, and community come together. Once the site of Charles Robert Prinsep’s nutmeg plantation, the estate has, over time, evolved from agricultural use into a treasured botanical haven.

Under the stewardship of the National Parks Board (NParks), the estate today features diverse landscapes – from the stately Gun Terrace and tranquil Swan Pond, to the serene Japanese Garden. Across the Fairway, Centre Gate Lawn, and the Inclusive Garden, pathways lined with benches invite visitors to pause, reflect, and take in the sounds and scents of nature. This green lung is home to a rich array of flora and fauna, with many bird species finding refuge within its trees.

Since 1960, the Istana has welcomed the public through its gates on special occasions, offering Singaporeans and visitors alike the chance to experience its beauty and tranquillity. NParks continues to maintain and enhance its landscapes, ensuring that the Istana remains both a dignified setting for state functions and a welcoming garden for all to enjoy.

Birds at the Istana

Flora & Fauna

Swan Pond

Gun Terrace

Japanese Garden

The Centre Gate

Inclusive Garden

Benches at the Istana

Lawn

Fairway