Exploring Istana Woodneuk – a haunted mansion in Singapore?

There are plenty of examples of glitzy new buildings in town, as well as colonial houses in (almost) perfect shape. However, there are not many visible ruins.

Istana Woodneuk, the former residence of family members of the Sultan of Johor, is just that – an abandoned villa. The fact that it is situated in a very central location next to the Botanic Gardens make it all the more tempting to visit.

If you want to go, there are several reports around on how to visit, such as this one. You basically need to walk through jungle for a few minutes but nothing too strenuous. While we were expecting a completely deserted place, we happened to visit around the same time as about 10 teenagers. Word seems to have spread around that this unique place exists. Expect to spend around half an hour there.

The path leading up to the Istana

Front view of Istana Woodneuk

This must have been a very impressive staircase back in the days

Judging by the graffiti, it must be rather new – Uber hasn’t been around for too long in Singapore

There are quite a few graffities around – not many I would consider works of art though.

The below map indicates the approximate location on Google Maps – note how nothing is indicated on the map. It is a huge area!