Pulau Ubin – Let’s Hike Puaka Hill, Who’s In?

Previously, I’ve shared an article on Chek Jawa Wetlands, so today, I’ll be sharing my experiences on hiking Puaka Hill. Bukit Puaka, at a height of 74-metres, is the tallest point on Pulau Ubin. It overlooks the Ubin Granite Quarry with scenic views of Singapore and Malaysia. The hike up Puaka Hill only takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete but due to its rocky and steep trail, you’ll be panting by the time you reach its peak.

The narrow trail winds through secondary forest and thick growths of wild ferns. There are 4 stations along the trail, each with a different view of the quarry and surrounding areas. Of course, the view is best at the last station. On a clear day, you can see all the way past Changi to even the towering buildings of the business district on mainland Singapore. There are also views of Johor and various parts of Ubin.

Looking down at the National Police Cadet Corps (NPCC) Campsite brings back lots of memories. I used to be from this uniformed group while studying in secondary school, and dreaded going to Pulau Ubin for camps. But, I’ve never regretted joining a uniformed group. It taught me so many life skills and values you can’t learn from school textbooks. Even after graduating from secondary school for more than a decade, I’m still maintaining a close friendship with a few girls I’ve met from NPCC.

Directions from Pulau Ubin Jetty to Puaka Hill

Start walking west along Jalan Jelutong road which will curve around the south side of Pekan Quarry. When it branches off into two roads, stay left on Jalan Jelutong. Soon, you will cross Jelutong Bridge with Wei Tuo Fa Gong temple on your right. After traveling a little further, you will arrive at a small concrete hut with a bike rack to the side and a dirt trail leading off to your right up the hill. While making your way to Puaka Hill, you will also come across Butterfly Hill.

Remember to apply plenty of mosquito repellent and sunblock. Do check the weather forecast before embarking on your hike. When you’ve completed your hike, head back to the village near the jetty to enjoy Ubin’s version of Thailand’s famous coconut icecream with a glass of ice cold coconut juice to beat the sweltering heat!

Besides hiking and cycling around Pulau Ubin, you can also rent kayaks and see the island from a different perspective. There are also little kelongs (offshore platform built predominantly with wood) near Pulau Ubin. It is best to go early in the morning if you want to explore the entire island within a day.