Your Guide to Discovering the Secrets of Istana Woodneuk in Singapore
Ever wondered what lies hidden in the dense greenery of Tyersall Park? I stumbled upon the story of Istana Woodneuk, an abandoned mansion with a royal past, and I couldn’t resist going down this rabbit hole.
For history buffs and photographers alike, this forgotten piece of Singapore’s colonial past is as intriguing as it gets. If you’re looking to uncover a slice of mystery amidst the city, here’s everything you need to know about it.
History
Istana Woodneuk was built in the late 19th century as a royal residence for the Johor Sultanate, serving as the luxurious home of Sultan Abu Bakar’s fourth wife, Sultana Khadijah, within Tyersall Park. Sultan Ibrahim rebuilt it in the 1930s after a fire destroyed the original structure.
The mansion, blending colonial and traditional Malay design, once symbolised wealth and power. Over time, it fell into disrepair, becoming an abandoned relic of Singapore’s royal history.
Do note that it’s not an official tourist attraction. The mansion sits on restricted private land, so access isn’t allowed. However, there are other hidden gems in Singapore to explore.
Things to Know
Location: 766 Tyersall Avenue
Rules and restrictions:
✔ Exterior photography allowed
✖ No trespassing
✖ No indoor photography
✖ No access allowed on surrounding property
How to Get There
Closest MRT: The closest MRT station to Istana Woodneuk is Botanic Gardens MRT (Circle Line/ Downtown Line). From the station, exit towards Cluny Road and take a short walk towards Tyersall Avenue.
Closest bus station: The nearest stop is at Cluny Road – Botanic Gardens Station (Bus Stop 41021), serviced by buses 48, 66, 151, 153, 154, and 156. From the bus stop, walk along Cluny Road towards Tyersall Avenue.
By car: The closest parking is available at Cluny Gate and Tyersall Gate car parks within the Singapore Botanic Gardens. These parking areas are just a short walk from the Tyersall Avenue area where Istana Woodneuk is located.
What It Looks Like Now
— Media from sodapop_summer
The mansion’s colonial-style architecture, once a symbol of grandeur, now blends with nature as vines and trees reclaim the structure. Unique features like the signature blue roof tiles and grand staircases hint at the former opulence of the estate.
Moreover, it’s often associated with eerie ghost stories and paranormal sightings. Those who visited it when it was still open to public access say that they heard whispers or footsteps echoing through the abandoned halls despite no one being inside.