Hidden Gems at Kranji: Exploring Singapore’s Countryside

While Singapore is famous for its modern architecture and vibrant city life, there’s a lesser-known side to the island. Situated in the northern part of the island, Kranji is a stark contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle. With vast green spaces and working farms, the area offers an authentic rural experience that many visitors overlook when they come to Singapore, making it a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Also read: 10 Farms in Singapore to Visit for a Taste of the Countryside

Here are eight must-try experiences that showcase the charm of Kranji’s countryside:

1. Farmers’ Market at Kranji Countryside

The Kranji Countryside Farmers’ Market is a vibrant gathering where visitors can purchase fresh, locally sourced produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. Beyond shopping, the market often features live music, cooking demonstrations, and workshops. It’s a family-friendly event that celebrates Singapore’s agricultural diversity, providing opportunities to interact with local farmers and artisans to gain insights into sustainable farming practices and the stories behind the products.

2. Farm-to-Table Dining at Bollywood Farms

Bollywood Farms offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience at its Poison Ivy Bistro. Guests can savour dishes prepared with organic ingredients harvested directly from the farm, such as the signature “Banana Blossom Salad” and “Nasi Lemak” featuring farm-fresh vegetables. The bistro provides a cosy atmosphere, allowing diners to enjoy their meals amidst the lush greenery of the farm. This experience not only delights the palate but also educates visitors on the importance of supporting local agriculture and sustainable food practices.

3. Goat Farming Adventure at Hay Dairies

Hay Dairies is Singapore’s only goat farm, offering visitors the chance to feed and interact with over 800 goats. Guided tours provide insights into dairy farming practices such as the milking process and the health benefits of goat milk.

Additionally, the farm offers fresh goat milk for purchase, allowing guests to taste the product of their visit. This hands-on experience is both educational and enjoyable, especially for families with children.

4. Vanilla Cultivation at The Vanilla Garden

The Vanilla Garden offers an educational experience on the cultivation of vanilla orchids. Visitors can learn about the intricate process of pollination, harvesting, and curing of vanilla beans. The farm also offers workshops where participants can create vanilla-infused products, such as vanilla extract or scented sachets. This unique experience provides a deeper appreciation for the complexities of vanilla farming and the journey from flower to flavour.

5. Wheatgrass Farming at Nature’s Glory

Nature’s Glory is Singapore’s largest wheatgrass farm, providing tours that educate visitors on the health benefits and cultivation of wheatgrass. The farm offers hands-on experiences where guests can harvest their own wheatgrass and enjoy freshly made wheatgrass shots, known for their detoxifying properties. This experience emphasizes the importance of healthy eating and the role of fresh, local produce in maintaining well-being.

6. Padi Planting at Kranji Countryside

Engage in traditional rice farming by participating in padi planting sessions. Guided by experienced farmers, visitors can learn the steps involved in rice cultivation. From sowing seeds to transplanting seedlings into the padi fields, this hands-on activity provides insights into the challenges and rewards of rice farming. However, visitors should note that this experience requires one month’s advance booking. This is because it takes a month for the rice saplings to be ready to be planted in their watered rice planting plot.

7. No-Flame Cooking Classes at Bollywood Farms

Bollywood Farms offers unique no-flame cooking classes that focus on preparing healthy, raw dishes using fresh farm ingredients. Participants can learn to create salads, smoothies, and other plant-based recipes, gaining skills to incorporate more raw foods into their diets. This experience promotes healthy eating habits and showcases the versatility of fresh, local produce.

8. Farm Tours at Kin Yan Agrotech and Qian Hu

Visitors can choose to go on guided tours of Kin Yan Agrotech or Qian Hu Fish Farm when they visit Kranji. Kin Yan Agrotech is a pesticide-free farm, where visitors can observe the cultivation of herbs and vegetables in a controlled environment. On the other hand, Qian Hu Fish Farm offers a glimpse into the breeding and cultivation of ornamental fish. This experience is particularly fascinating for those interested in aquaculture and the ornamental fish industry.

Also read: Exploring the Korean Countryside: My One-Day Buyeo Itinerary

Farm life in Singapore is unique due to the country’s limited land resources. Despite its urban reputation, Singapore has managed to incorporate agriculture into its landscape in innovative ways, from high-tech farming practices to organic operations. Kranji’s countryside offers a peaceful and immersive retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to explore Singapore’s agricultural roots. The blend of nature and cutting-edge agricultural practices offers a rare opportunity to connect with the land and discover a side of Singapore that most people never get to see.