Stay here: Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree

What’s the deal? 

Opened in April 2025, Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree is Singapore’s first luxury resort set within a nature reserve, and the Lion City’s sustainable hotel group’s first property in its hometown. Located in the heart of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, about a 30-minute drive north of the city centre, the 4.6-hectare property offers direct, walkable (and shuttle bus) access to the city’s cluster of zoological parks: Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and Rainforest Wild Asia.

Designed by WOW Architects, the 338-room resort is a masterclass in biophilic design, with elevated wings that allow wildlife to pass freely beneath it and treehouse suites inspired by native seed pods. Expect immersive nature experiences, sustainability-led programming, thoughtful children’s amenities and a sense of escape that’s rare in urban Singapore. 

Avoiding the usual pitfalls associated with new properties, general manager Glen Cook brings over a decade of experience with Banyan Group, making him one its most trusted hands. With his commitment to guest experience and environmental stewardship, the resort stays firmly away from greenwashing – this is the first resort in Singapore to achieve the Green Mark Super Low Energy certification.

Why stay?

Considering its proximity to the city, sense of escape and emphasis on nature, it offers a unique experience unlike anywhere else we’ve stayed before. You’ll feel yourself begin to unwind and breathe more deeply the moment you step into the massive, sculptural lobby, which is designed to be open to, yet in harmony with, the elements. 

Although the city’s attractions are close by, we recommend staying onsite to fully immerse yourself in the resort’s cocooning effect. Three months after opening, cab drivers were still unfamiliar with the location, even when using the Grab app – a minor niggle that’s sure to improve with time.

We stayed at the height of summer and fell asleep to the sounds of frogs chirping from the lakeside. For city-dwellers, it’s a welcome change from the smog and sirens, but sleepers who prefer absolute silence at night might want to consider a stay in the cooler months, when evenings tend to be quieter.  

If you want to access one of the two magnificent bird’s nest-shaped pools that have gone viral on social media, you’ll need to book one of the standout Mandai Treehouses, which share this semi-private swimming space. These pod-like structures are suspended above the forest floor, with private patios and sweeping views of the Upper Seletar Reservoir. All rooms are naturally ventilated, with interactive displays that track energy use and encourage eco-conscious habits. The room thermostats are limited to 24°C at their lowest, but combined with a powerful ceiling fan and smart, cooling architecture, you’re unlikely to be left sweating through the night.

In order to really sink into serenity, there’s a first-rate spa onsite: Banyan Tree Spa offers signature massages in a rainforest-inspired setting. Dining is equally thoughtful – Planter’s Shed serves buffet breakfasts and à la carte lunches with live cooking stations, while Forage, the hotel’s fine-dining venue, offers an omakase menu featuring produce from the rooftop edible garden. 
 
Families are well catered for, with bunk-bed-equipped rooms, a kids’ club and outdoor playground, a rooftop pool and exciting wildlife programmes to spark the little ones’ imaginations and set the scene for making memories – away from screens.

Cathay editors say… 

“This is Singapore’s most exciting and original hotel opening in years. It’s a rare chance to experience the wilder side of one of Asia’s most buzzing cities, without sacrificing comfort or luxury. Whether you’re waking up to birdsong or dining under the stars, Mandai Rainforest Resort offers a true awakening in nature.”