Ever wondered what it would be like to stand next to real dinosaur fossils in Singapore? The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum offers exactly that experience and much more! As Singapore's premier natural history museum, it showcases the rich biodiversity of Southeast Asia through impressive exhibits spanning millions of years of natural history. Whether you're fascinated by prehistoric creatures or interested in learning about local wildlife, this museum promises an educational and captivating experience.
Opening Hours and Visit Sessions
The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday, between 10 AM and 6 PM (closed on Mondays). To better manage capacity and ensure a comfortable viewing experience, the museum operates three visiting sessions daily:
- Morning session: 10 AM
- Afternoon session: 1 PM
- Evening session: 4 PM
Last admission is at 4:30 PM, so plan accordingly to make the most of your visit. This timed-entry system helps prevent overcrowding and allows you to enjoy the exhibits without feeling rushed.
Admission Fees
Ticket prices vary depending on residency status:
For Singapore Residents:
- Adults: S$18.00
- Children, Students, and Senior Citizens: S$10.00
- Persons with Disability: S$10.00
Standard Rates (Non-residents):
- Adults: S$27.00
- Children, Students, and Senior Citizens: S$16.00
- Persons with Disability: S$16.00
NUS staff and students enjoy free admission with valid identification.
How to Purchase Tickets
You have multiple options to purchase your tickets:
- At the Museum: Purchase directly at the ticketing counter
- Online: Book through SISTIC's website
- By Phone: Call the SISTIC hotline
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and holiday periods when the museum tends to be busier.
Museum Highlights
Dinosaurs: The Star Attractions
The museum's crown jewels are undoubtedly the three spectacular dinosaur skeletons that greet visitors in the main hall. These include a massive Diplodocus fossil stretching 17 meters long—one of the most complete dinosaur skeletons in Southeast Asia. Standing beneath these giants offers a humbling perspective on prehistory and makes for unforgettable photo opportunities.
The Sperm Whale Exhibition
Another highlight is the sperm whale skeleton salvaged in 2015. This impressive specimen offers insight into marine mammals and their fascinating adaptations, making it a must-see for ocean enthusiasts.
Heritage Collection
History buffs will appreciate the museum's heritage specimens, some of which are over 100 years old. These treasures offer a glimpse into the scientific collecting practices of the past and the region's natural history legacy.
Biodiversity Exhibits
Beyond the star attractions, the museum houses over 2,000 natural history specimens across two permanent galleries. These exhibits showcase the incredible diversity of Southeast Asian flora and fauna, from tiny insects to larger mammals, giving visitors a comprehensive understanding of the region's natural wealth.
Guided Tours
The museum offers complimentary guided tours in both English and Mandarin, adding tremendous value to your visit. These tours are led by knowledgeable volunteer guides who bring the exhibits to life with fascinating facts and stories.
English Tours:
- Saturday and Sunday at 11 AM and 1 PM
Mandarin Tours:
- Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM
These tours operate on a walk-in basis, so simply register at the ticketing counter upon arrival. Keep in mind that availability depends on volunteer schedules, so it's not guaranteed that a tour will run every day.
Getting to the Museum
By Bus
The museum is easily accessible via public transportation:
- Bus 151 (SBS Transit): Alight at Museum (B16161)
- Bus 96 (Tower Transit) or 151 (SBS Transit): Alight at Raffles Hall (B16169)
By Train (MRT)
Take the train to Clementi MRT station, then transfer to Bus 96 at Clementi Bus Interchange.
By Car
If you're driving:
- Use Exit 9 of the AYE for Clementi Road
- Turn left into Kent Ridge Crescent
- Parking is available at LKCNHM (NUS Car Park 3A) and Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music (NUS Car Park 3)
- Parking rates: S$0.0214 (inclusive of GST) per minute during operating hours, including Saturdays
- Free parking on Sundays and Public Holidays
Facilities and Amenities
Museum Shop
The museum shop offers a variety of educational souvenirs, captivating mementos, and select museum publications. It's the perfect place to pick up a dinosaur model or a book about Southeast Asian biodiversity to extend your learning experience at home.
Dining Options
While the museum itself doesn't have a restaurant, several dining options are available nearby:
- Alice Lee Plaza
- NUS Town
- Yusof Ishak House
These locations offer a range of food choices to satisfy your hunger after exploring the museum.
Special Events and Exhibitions
The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events. In 2025, the museum is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a special exhibition titled "A Decade of Discovery: Stories from the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum," running from May 2025 to May 2026. This exhibition showcases the museum's journey and achievements over the past decade.
Other anniversary events include:
- "Digital Dinosaurs" public talk
- "Night at LKCNHM" program
- Research symposium on "Specimens, Science, and Stories"
Check the museum's website or social media channels for updated information on current and upcoming events during your visit.
Visitor Tips
- Plan for at least 2 hours: To fully appreciate the exhibits, allocate at least two hours for your visit.
- Visit on weekdays if possible: The museum tends to be less crowded on weekdays, allowing for a more relaxed viewing experience.
- Join a guided tour: The complimentary guided tours add significant educational value to your visit.
- Bring a light jacket: The museum is air-conditioned and can get quite cool, especially if you're spending several hours inside.
- Check for special events: Before your visit, check if any special exhibitions or events are happening during your planned visit.
- Consider the family package: If you're visiting with children, inquire about family package options that might offer better value.
- Take photos: Photography is allowed in most areas of the museum, so don't forget your camera to capture the impressive exhibits.
Conclusion
The Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum offers a fascinating journey through time, showcasing the rich natural history and biodiversity of Singapore and Southeast Asia. From impressive dinosaur fossils to local wildlife specimens, the museum provides educational entertainment for visitors of all ages.
With its convenient location, reasonable admission fees, and wealth of exhibits, it's definitely worth adding to your Singapore itinerary, especially if you're interested in natural sciences or looking for an educational activity that appeals to both adults and children.
Book Your Chauffeur Service Today
Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the wonders of natural history at the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum? To ensure a seamless and comfortable experience, consider booking a chauffeur service for your transportation needs. Avoid the hassle of navigating public transport or searching for parking, and enjoy the convenience of being driven directly to the museum.
With a chauffeur service, you can relax, focus on your exciting visit, and make the most of your time exploring Singapore's unique natural heritage. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary adventure.
