Banyan Group has officially opened Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree, marking both its 100th global milestone and a meaningful homecoming to Singapore. Developed in partnership with Mandai Wildlife Group, the new resort is a major addition to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, bringing eco-luxury hospitality deep into the heart of Singapore’s rainforest.
A Resort Rooted in the Rainforest
Spread across 4.6 hectares of dense greenery, the resort showcases Banyan Group’s signature biophilic design philosophy. Elevated structures preserve the natural terrain, with mature trees, including a 12-metre Rain Tree and an Indian Beech, carefully retained to frame the arrival experience.
Guests can stay in elevated treehouses inspired by the seed pods of the Purple Millettia plant, suspended among the canopy with sweeping views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir. The adjacent five-storey main building rises through the forest layers, offering rooms and suites with immersive views of the surrounding rainforest and gardens.
Inside, each room pays homage to Singapore’s rich biodiversity. Artwork by Singaporean artist Donna Ong depicts the forest’s layers, from floor to canopy, while antique lithographs of native wildlife add a nostalgic touch. Sustainability features take centre stage, from natural ventilation and energy-monitoring displays to rainwater harvesting in every room, contributing to the resort’s status as Singapore’s first Green Mark Platinum Super Low Energy resort.
Dining, Wellness & Celebrations Amid Nature
The signature restaurant, Forage, serves a nature-inspired menu rooted in a Harvest-to-Table ethos. With ingredients sourced from the onsite edible garden and local producers, diners enjoy flavours of the forest alongside stunning sunset views over the reservoir. The nearby observation deck is also a hot spot for birdwatching, with more than 30 species regularly sighted.
On the rooftop, guests can relax at the pool or explore the Discovery Forest, where saplings echo the region’s native forest types. The Edible Garden grows over 15 local herbs, from roselle to torch ginger, highlighting the resort’s commitment to sustainability.
Events and celebrations come alive at the Meranti Ballroom, inspired by the mysteries of the forest floor. Its striking centrepiece resembles the rare Bridal Veil Stinkhorn mushroom, an artistic nod to the wonders of fungi and folklore. Next door, the Bridal Room offers exclusivity and privacy for wedding parties.
For wellness seekers, Banyan Tree Spa presents a tranquil sanctuary, with pavilions seamlessly integrated into nature. Three signature treatment pods draw inspiration from the scales of the native Sunda pangolin, symbolising protection and serenity. Guests can indulge in therapies grounded in Asian healing traditions.
Nature-Led Experiences for Families
The resort’s playground brings the rainforest to life through imaginative structures modelled after cannonball fruits, buttress roots, and giant rainforest leaves. Designed to spark exploration, these play elements enhance motor skills, balance, and creativity, all while immersing children in a nature-led environment.
Highlights include:
- A Cannonball Fruit climbing structure crafted by Italian artist Maximilian
- A Buttress Root play feature with climbing grips and a slide
- Leaf-shaped springers and a sprawling netted leaf for rest and play
Beyond the resort, families enjoy seamless access to the Mandai Wildlife Reserve’s attractions, including Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise, Rainforest Wild Asia, and the new Curiosity Cove indoor playscape. Guests staying at the resort can look forward to special rates and curated programmes ranging from the Wild Zoo Day Camp to immersive wildlife and wellbeing activities.
