Istana, Singapore

Office and Residence of President

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.

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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.

For more information visit Istana.

Location: Orchard Road

Getting there: Take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station (NS24) and walk across Orchard Road.

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