Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree: Luxury Resort Pick of the Week
- kgm
- Apr 24
- 9 min read
Location: 60 Mandai Lake Rd, Singapore
In the heart of Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve, a new chapter in sustainable luxury begins with the unveiling of Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. Opening in April 2025, this landmark resort is set to redefine the city-state’s hospitality landscape—merging eco-conscious architecture with immersive nature experiences in one of Southeast Asia’s most biodiverse enclaves.
Spanning 4.6 hectares of lush tropical forest, the resort offers a tranquil retreat that celebrates the natural heritage of Mandai while delivering the elevated service for which Banyan Tree is known. Its “stay-in-nature” concept features 338 low-impact rooms, including 24 one-of-a-kind treehouse villas inspired by the seed pods of the native Purple Millettia tree. Elevated above the forest floor, these villas provide sweeping views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the vibrant jungle canopy.
Guests will enjoy direct access to Singapore’s world-famous wildlife parks—including the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, and Bird Paradise—all while indulging in curated wellness programs, sustainable cuisine, and uniquely biophilic design. Whether you’re seeking a family getaway or a restorative escape, Mandai Rainforest Resort offers a luxurious yet grounded experience at the intersection of conservation and comfort.
Legacy and Vision
Mandai Rainforest Resort is a visionary collaboration between Banyan Tree Group, a global pioneer in sustainable luxury hospitality, and Mandai Park Holdings, the master planner for Singapore’s integrated wildlife and nature precinct. This partnership unites two powerful forces committed to conservation, community engagement, and eco-conscious tourism.
Banyan Tree Group, founded in 1994 and headquartered in Singapore, has earned international acclaim for its commitment to sustainability and wellness-focused travel. Its resorts across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East are recognized for harmonizing with their environments and cultures, delivering exceptional guest experiences that tread lightly on the planet.
With Mandai Rainforest Resort, Banyan Tree reinforces its promise to create “a sanctuary for the senses”—while supporting Singapore’s broader vision to transform Mandai into a world-class eco-tourism destination. Together, they’ve created a resort that’s not just luxurious, but meaningful—connecting travelers with nature through thoughtful design and purpose-driven hospitality.
Architectural Brilliance and Design Philosophy
The architectural vision for Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree is the work of WOW Architects, a Singapore-based firm celebrated for its innovative biophilic designs and sustainable approach to build environments. Guided by the principle of “designing with nature,” WOW Architects created a resort that blends almost invisibly into its forested surroundings.
The most iconic feature of the resort—the treehouse villas—draws direct inspiration from the seed pods of the Purple Millettia, a native tree species found in the area. These elevated structures, suspended amid the treetops, are crafted to minimize environmental impact while offering panoramic views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and the surrounding rainforest canopy.
Throughout the resort, natural materials, open-air circulation, and low-rise structures echo the rhythms of the jungle. Every element—from the spa treatment pods modeled after the keratin scales of the endangered Sunda pangolin to the organic curves of the guest pavilions—reinforces a sense of harmony with the land.
This immersive design doesn’t just respect the environment—it celebrates it. WOW Architects and Banyan Tree have created a retreat where architecture disappears into the forest, offering guests an experience that is both luxurious and grounded in the living landscape.
Accommodations and Amenities
The resort offers 338 thoughtfully designed accommodations, each crafted to immerse guests in the surrounding wilderness without compromising on comfort. The highlight? 24 extraordinary treehouse villas, each elevated amidst the rainforest canopy and inspired by the seed pods of the native Purple Millettia tree. These villas offer sweeping views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir and provide a rare sense of seclusion, complete with private patios and open-air layouts.
The remaining guest rooms are nestled in low-rise, eco-conscious structures that follow the contours of the land, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment. Interiors reflect a balance of modern refinement and rustic tranquility—featuring sustainable materials, earthy tones, and nature-infused design elements.
Beyond the rooms, the resort offers a range of world-class amenities:
Banyan Tree Spa with rainforest-inspired treatment pods and holistic wellness therapies.
A rooftop infinity pool with views over the jungle canopy.
Forage, the signature restaurant offering a “Trust the Chef” experience with locally foraged ingredients.
Planter’s Shed, a casual, buffet-style venue with live cooking stations.
Rangers’ Club, a nature-inspired children’s play area.
State-of-the-art fitness and yoga facilities, perfect for morning sessions in the forest air.
Whether you're seeking solitude or family-friendly fun, every space within Mandai Rainforest Resort has been designed to reconnect you with nature—while enveloping you in quiet, conscious luxury.
Personalized Experiences
At the resort curated experiences are designed to deepen your connection with nature, culture, and self. Whether you’re seeking quiet reflection or thrilling encounters with the wild, the resort offers something unforgettable for every kind of traveler:
Wildlife Park Access – Enjoy privileged proximity to Singapore’s renowned attractions, including the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, and Bird Paradise. Explore the wonders of biodiversity through behind-the-scenes tours and conservation-focused programs.
Nature Immersion – Join guided rainforest walks, botanical discovery tours, and forest bathing sessions. Learn about native plants, birds, and insects while treading lightly through Mandai’s lush landscape.
Wellness Experiences – Embrace serenity through sunrise yoga, meditation in the jungle, and sound healing sessions. At the Banyan Tree Spa, treatment pods shaped like the Sunda pangolin invite you into a world of deep rejuvenation.
Cultural Connections – Discover Singapore’s natural heritage through storytelling sessions, local craft demonstrations, and traditional music experiences, all woven into the resort’s ethos of place-based learning.
Tailored Moments – From private dining under the stars to chef-guided foraging expeditions, each activity can be customized to your interests, making your stay truly one of a kind.
At Mandai Rainforest Resort, every experience is thoughtfully crafted—not only to delight, but to inspire a lasting bond with the living world around you.
Gastronomic Journeys
Dining is an immersive expression of sustainability, creativity, and local heritage. Each meal is more than a dish—it’s a story of place, flavor, and thoughtful sourcing.
Forage – The resort’s signature restaurant features a “Trust the Chef” tasting experience that celebrates foraged and locally grown ingredients. Menus change with the seasons, highlighting native herbs, forest fruits, and heritage grains in elegant, earth-forward cuisine.
Planter’s Shed – A relaxed, family-friendly venue offering buffet-style dining with live stations, inspired by Singapore’s multicultural street food traditions. It's an inviting space to gather, explore global flavors, and enjoy wholesome comfort food.
Private Dining Experiences – Guests can choose from jungle-view terraces, rooftop garden spaces, or even outdoor forest clearings for personalized meals curated by the resort’s culinary team. Ideal for romantic dinners or small celebrations.
From sunrise breakfasts among the treetops to starlit dinners beneath the canopy, the dining program at Mandai Rainforest Resort invites you to savor the land—and the stories it tells—with every bite.
Spa and Wellness
Wellness at Banyan Tree is a deeply immersive experience—rooted in nature, guided by tradition, and designed to restore balance.
Banyan Tree Spa – Nestled within the forest canopy, the spa features organic treatment pods inspired by the protective keratin scales of the Sunda pangolin. Here, ancient healing meets modern technique through signature Banyan Tree therapies, tailored to individual needs.
Forest-Inspired Therapies – Indulge in rainforest-infused massages, herbal body treatments, and facials using botanicals sourced locally—each crafted to harmonize with your natural energy and the surrounding environment.
Holistic Wellness Programs – Guests can take part in guided meditation, forest breathing (Shinrin-yoku), and sunrise yoga sessions on elevated platforms overlooking the trees.
Alchemy Bar – A unique space where guests can create custom wellness products using natural ingredients such as ginger, lemongrass, and turmeric—connecting the healing of the earth with personal well-being.
Whether you’re seeking deep rejuvenation or a quiet moment of stillness, the resort’s wellness offerings create space to breathe, heal, and reconnect.
Top Attractions Near the Resort
Mandai Rainforest Resort is uniquely positioned within Singapore’s lush Mandai Wildlife Reserve, offering guests easy access to some of the most celebrated natural and wildlife attractions in Southeast Asia. These nearby experiences add depth to your stay, allowing for meaningful exploration and ecological discovery:
Singapore Zoo (5-minute walk) – Widely recognized as one of the best rainforest zoos in the world, the Singapore Zoo offers immersive habitats and animal encounters that are both educational and awe-inspiring.
Night Safari (5 minutes by shuttle) – Step into a world of nocturnal wonders with this first-of-its-kind open-air zoo. Guided tram rides and walking trails reveal the secrets of the jungle after dark.
Bird Paradise (10 minutes by shuttle) – A newly opened avian sanctuary showcasing over 3,500 birds across 400 species in naturalistic aviaries inspired by global habitats.
River Wonders (5 minutes by shuttle) – Asia’s first and only river-themed wildlife park, where guests can explore ecosystems from the Amazon to the Mekong, including a giant panda forest.
Upper Seletar Reservoir Park (10-minute drive) – A peaceful escape perfect for jogging, birdwatching, or enjoying panoramic views of the lake from the iconic Rocket Tower.
Whether you’re traveling with children or seeking quiet communion with nature, Mandai’s attractions transform your luxury getaway into a rich journey of discovery.
Things You Need to Know
Before you retreat into the rainforest, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your stay at Mandai Rainforest Resort:
Best Time to Visit: Singapore is a year-round destination, but the driest months are February to April, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and wildlife visits.
What to Pack: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, reusable water bottles, comfortable walking shoes, and insect repellent—especially for forest walks and nature trails.
Cultural Etiquette: While the resort is casual, modest attire is appreciated in public areas. Singapore is known for its cleanliness and order, so responsible behavior and sustainability practices are encouraged.
Booking Tips: For the most immersive experience, reserve one of the elevated treehouse villas—ideal for couples or solo travelers seeking privacy, panoramic views, and a deeper connection with nature.
With these essentials in mind, your journey into Mandai’s living forest will be effortless, enriching, and unforgettable.
Awards and Commitment to Sustainability
Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree stands as a benchmark for regenerative hospitality, earning early recognition for its eco-innovative approach to luxury travel.
Green Mark Platinum Certification – The resort is built to meet Singapore’s highest standards of sustainability, with energy-efficient systems, solar integration, and advanced water recycling in place.
Biophilic and Zero-Waste Design – From reclaimed wood construction to the “No Single-Use Plastic” policy, the resort embraces environmentally conscious practices at every touchpoint.
Conservation Partnerships – Collaborations with Mandai Nature and local wildlife institutions support conservation education, habitat protection, and biodiversity research in the surrounding rainforest.
Community Engagement – The resort works closely with local artisans and producers to promote cultural sustainability and economic inclusion, reflecting Banyan Tree’s global ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People.”
Through these initiatives, Mandai Rainforest Resort redefines what it means to travel well—where luxury and responsibility walk hand in hand.
Best Time to Visit
Singapore’s tropical climate makes Mandai Rainforest Resort a year-round retreat, but some months offer an even more seamless nature experience.
February to April – This is the driest and sunniest period, ideal for wildlife excursions, forest walks, and outdoor dining. Clear skies enhance views from the treehouse villas and rooftop terraces.
May to September – Expect occasional showers, but they’re typically brief. The rainforest is lush and vibrant during these months, perfect for guests who enjoy cooler, misty mornings and fewer crowds.
October to January – Singapore’s wettest season. While rainfall is more frequent, it brings out the rich greenery and creates a serene, immersive atmosphere—especially for spa treatments and wellness seekers.
Whichever season you choose, Mandai offers its own unique rhythm—where every visit aligns with the living pulse of the rainforest.
How to Get There
Reaching resort is straightforward, with several convenient transportation options:
From Changi Airport (SIN):
By Car or Taxi: Approximately a 30-minute drive covering 24–31 km, depending on traffic. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available at the airport.
By Public Transport: Take the MRT from Changi Airport to Khatib MRT Station (North-South Line). From there, board the Mandai Khatib Shuttle to the Singapore Zoo, which is a short walk from the resort.
From Downtown Singapore:
By MRT and Bus: Travel via the North-South MRT Line to Khatib Station, then transfer to the Mandai Khatib Shuttle.
By Car: Approximately a 25–30-minute drive from the city center.
Within Mandai Wildlife Reserve:
The resort is located within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, just a short walk from attractions like the Singapore Zoo and Night Safari. Guests can also utilize the free Mandai Shuttle Service to navigate between different parks within the reserve.
Takeaway
Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree isn’t just a destination—it’s a transformative journey into one of Singapore’s last wild frontiers. Seamlessly blending five-star luxury with deep environmental consciousness, the resort invites guests to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the world through nature’s lens.
From treetop villas and wildlife sanctuaries to wellness rituals and forest-to-table dining, every experience is crafted to nurture both traveler and planet. Whether you’re an eco-adventurer, wellness seeker, or mindful romantic, Mandai offers a rare harmony of immersion and indulgence.
For those seeking more than a vacation—for those yearning for meaning, stillness, and wonder—this is your place. Book your retreat, and let the rainforest show you the art of staying wild, responsibly.
❤️❤️
A unique destination.
Amazing place ❤️
🫶
Beautiful 😍