Much has been said about The Forbidden Hill, now better known as Fort Canning. But many of the stories are familiar and often repeated. On this tour, we’ll dig deeper – beyond the polished narratives – to uncover the lesser-known facts, myths, and hidden voices that shaped this historic hill.
While the spotlight often falls on royalty and the powerful, our walk will focus on the lives of ordinary people who once lived, worked, and died around this area. We’ll explore how the common folk might have seen this hill – not just as a seat of power, but as a place of work, rest, and resistance.
Today, Fort Canning is a peaceful green escape in the heart of the city. But in beautifying it, we’ve lost a piece of its soul. The hill was once home to a historic cemetery – final resting place for explorers and settlers who never made it home. Aside from a few plaques on the old walls, little remains to tell their story.
Fort Canning could easily be the focus of many themed tours – from colonial history and nature walks, to WWII trails featuring the famed Battle Box, where General Percival fought (and lost) the Battle of Singapore. But this tour won’t be boxed in.
Instead, this is an all-in-one storytelling walk. We’ll talk about the high and mighty – kings, governors, generals – and the unsung individuals like Chow Ah Chi, the humble carpenter said to have scouted Singapore before Raffles landed. Some say he was rewarded with a house at 1, Lavender Street. Truth, myth, or legend? Let’s discuss it together.
We’ll start at Dhoby Ghaut MRT – Exit B at 9am, and finish our journey at the vibrant Funan mall. Few know this, but Raffles’ original botanic gardens once stretched all the way here.
Join us for a refreshing and thoughtful morning walk – where history meets mystery, and stories come alive beneath the shade of century-old trees.
For reservations, contact:
UNCLE CHRIS WALKING TOURS
Chris WK Ng
T: 65 91814298
E: [email protected]
W: www.unclechrisdrivingholidays.com
Note:
• We do the worldwide practice of tipping at the end of the tour.
• We also reserve the right to accept or reject habitual late cancellations and No Shows.
• Do not sign up for this tour if you are not sure of your schedule. Sign up only when you are sure of your schedule.