Rare: A Glimpse Into Singapore's Presidential House

I first saw Singapore's Presidential House when we were running an event at Istana Plaza. Since then, I have always wondered how Istana looks like inside. Finally, an opportunity knocked and I got my answer.

Located in Orchard Road, the office of the republic of Singapore opened its gates to the public in celebration of the Chinese New Year. To get in, one needs to pay $2 (foreigners) and entrance is fee for Singapore permanent residents and citizens. The queue was not long and the bag check was fast. Getting inside, we needed to go through series of security checks - proof that Singapore gives safety the utmost regard. 

The queue inside the premise right after getting through the gate. 

The Istana, according to http://www.istana.gov.sg/ is the official residence of the President of Singapore. Istana is a malay term that translates to "palace". It is often used now as a place to receive and entertain state guests.

Singapore emblem in gold-colored coating, the symbolic five stars, a crescent moon and two lions.

The afternoon sunshine was beaming so warmly at us at 4:00 p.m. Our first stop was the Swan Pond. Two swans presented as gifts from the Zoological Society of London were swimming by the time we reached. The description says that Mr. and Mrs. Lee Kuan Yew used to visit and feed the swans during their evening walk.

The Swan Pond description.

Two swans who are about to have their  leafy dinner.

Istana and its huge lawn premise, some generous meters away from the main entrance. 

A break from the walk. It was quite a warm afternoon!

Map around the area.

The Istana is ironically in the center of the city and yet it manages to maintain its lush and green beauty with the help of the caretakers and management of the place (Senior Curator from National Parks and his team). According its official website, the Istana was previously a nutmeg plantation of Charles Robert Prinsep.

The Centre Gate

Walking a semi-uphill, half-kilometre walk, we have reached the Centre Gate. On it was a beautiful, intricate design that is actually made of cast iron and receives post for visitors (Istana Website). 

Some part of the vicinity in the heart of Istana.

A presentation of music from these kids.

Walkway going to the main building.

The facade of the Istana building. 

Before heading in, we explored outside the Istana building for a moment. There was a lion dance performance, a dance troupe fully dressed and some few other presentations. There were flowers along the sides of the facade as well.

The lion dance performance

Some presenters. 

Beautiful flowers in Istana.

Another enchanting blossom.

In order to get inside the main Istana building, one must purchase a ticket for $4 each for foreigners (self-guided tour). All proceeds will go towards the charities supported by President's Challenge.

Queuing to buy the ticket.

The ticket to enter the main building.

Photos, food, and drinks were not allowed inside the Istana main building. You can only appreciate it with your eyes. There were paintings from different countries with different themes, pots, vases, various colorful tea sets and the interior was beautifully adorned with shining chandeliers. For less than 10 minutes, we finished touring the place. Only the ground floor was open to the public and no access was given to the upper floors. We went out of the building to explore the place further.

Stairs going to Victoria Pond.

Walkway going to the end of the pond. 

Heading to this part of Istana, you'll need to go down the stairs and walk through a relaxing view. You'd want to take your time here. Although I was feeling a little irritable due to the humidity, I still appreciated the place nonetheless. Shout out to Alex for his enduring patience!

The pond and the little terrace.

A shaded walkway for anyone who wants to shelter themselves from the sun or rain.

Istana's view from a different angle.

Left-wing staircase heading down to the exit.

A close up view of these lovely flowers. 

Chilling out before walking a few kilometers down the lawn.

I don't know what this plant is called.

We have reached the end of the tour. Here are some of the photos taken around the Istana premise and the Istana Park (across premise).

 

It was an afternoon nicely spent, knowing Singapore a little better and having this chance to visit the home of the Singapore President. That is all for today! See you.

Cheers,

Jedde

Credits to Alex for my photos.