Istana Heritage Tour - English

Join our NParks volunteers for a one-hour walk through over 150 years of the Istana’s history, stunning architecture, and lush nature right in the heart of the city. Whether you are a history buff, an architecture lover, or on the hunt for a photo spot, the Istana Heritage Tour brings the stories of this iconic landmark to life!

In line with the National Environment Agency’s (NEA) haze health advisories, the upcoming IOH will not proceed if the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) exceeds 200 (Very Unhealthy).

Visitors are encouraged to bring their own masks and check the latest PSI readings before making their way to the Istana. Please also check the Istana website regularly for updates. Those who have registered for activities via Eventbrite will also receive a notification via email.

• The Villa: See this historic building on the Istana grounds, which has hosted some of the world’s most prominent Heads of State.
• The Ceremonial Plaza: See the grand outdoor plaza where visiting world leaders are formally welcomed.
• The Japanese Garden: Explore the only themed garden within the Istana grounds with traditional stone lanterns and a dry rock garden (karesansui).
• Flora & Fauna: Discover how the Istana grounds support a variety of plants and local wildlife.

• Tours are conducted in English and Mandarin at the following timings* on Sunday, 1 November 2026.
• Fees^ apply, and all proceeds go to the benefitting programmes supported by the President’s Challenge.

• 10.30 am
• 11am
• 12pm
• 1pm
• 2pm
• 3pm

Please sign-up here for Mandarin tours.

• 10.30 am
• 1 pm

*Timings subject to change; participants will be notified of any changes via email.

^Fees for the Istana Heritage Tour are non-refundable and exclude the following admission fees, which must be paid separately:
(i) Admission fees required for entry into the Istana grounds during the Istana Open House.
(ii) Fees for entering the Istana Villa.

Find out more about the Istana Open House here.

Event venue & nearby stays

The Istana, Orchard Road, Singapore, Singapore

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.

Get the app →

Discover more events by tag