Photo from The Istana

The Istana, meaning “Palace” in Malay, is the official residence and office of the president of Singapore. One of the oldest heritage sites in Singapore, the Istana was once part of the extensive nutmeg plantation of Mount Sophia, housed Singapore’s former colonial British Governors, stood through the Japanese Occupation, been through extensive renovation and is now where the current president receives and entertains state guests.

Open House Dates

The Istana is only open to the public 4 to 5 times a year.

• Lunar New Year
• Hari Raya Puasa
• Labour Day
• National Day
• Deepavali

For the exact date of opening, check nearer to these dates stated on the official website.

Things to Do

Take a leisurely walk around and enjoy the immaculate lawns, lush green gardens and explore the historical buildings on the Istana grounds.

• Main Building
• Sri Temasek
• The Villa
• Military Guard Room
• Gun Terrace
• Swan Pond
• Japanese Garden
• The Centre Gate

Enjoy the Flora & Fauna

These are the two mute swans (Cygnus Olor) that reside in the Swan Pond home since 1968, where the late Mr and Mrs Lee Kuan Yew would visit and feed them during their evening walks.

The Lily Pond use to be called the Victoria Garden because the statue of Queen Victoria that was presented to the then Governor by the Chinese Community in 1889, was placed under the gazebo in the 1990s after the Istana was renovated. The statue of Queen Victoria has since been returned to the National Heritage Board.

Tour the Istana Main Building

Photo from The Istana

Although entrance to the Istana is free for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, take note that there is a fee to enter the main building. Also, take note that taking photos within the main building is prohibited. Enjoy the sights with your eyes instead of your lens.

Only the first floor is open to view where you will be able to see the State Gifts in the Istana’s Collection.

Changing of the Guards

Photo from Holidify

If you happen to be visiting Singapore during the first Sunday of the month, you will be able to watch the Changing of the Guards at the Entrance Gate of the Istana.

When: First Sunday of the Month
Time: 18:00

Things to Note

Photo from The Istana

• The exact dates of the open house will be announced through the Straits Times and the official website.
• Admission into The Istana is via the Main Gate at Orchard Road only and subjected to security checks.
• Smoking is strictly prohibited on the Istana grounds.
• There are no storage facilities in The Istana.
• Pointed and sharp objects (e.g. knives of any size, fork, scissors), flammable items (e.g. lighter), tripods and canned items (e.g. canned drinks) are not allowed.
• Entry may be suspended or cancelled if there is prolonged risk of lightning. Visitors within the Istana grounds can seek shelter at the tentages. Please do not seek shelter under trees or canopies.
• All proceeds will go towards the benefitting agencies supported by President’s Challenge.

Admission Charges

Singapore Citizens & Permanent Residence
Free Entry

Other Visitors
SGD $20
Child (above 4 years): SGD $10

Fees applicable for entry to the Istana Main Building, Guided Tours and Nature Guided Tours.

Proceeds will go towards the benefitting agencies supported by President’s Challenge.

Address:
Istana Negara Singapura, Orchard Road, Singapore 238823

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Reference:
The Istana
National Heritage Board