The Istana Grounds is usually open to the public to celebrate Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya, Labour Day and National Day every year.

The Istana Open House is scheduled to be held on the following dates in 2026:

1. Chinese New Year (22 Feb 2026)
2. Hari Raya (19 Apr 2026)
3. Labour Day (19 Apr 2026)
4. National Day (26 Jul 2026)
5. Deepavali (1 Nov 2026)

Istana Open House

The next Istana Open House (IOH) will be held on Sunday, 26 July from 9.30am to 8pm and 1 November 2026 (Timing to be advised), in celebration of the National Day and Deepavali respectively. Members of the public are invited to experience cultural performances and community activities while exploring the Istana grounds.

Please note the Istana Main Building is currently closed for restoration until further notice.

Istana Heritage Tour

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!

Tour highlights

• 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.

Istana Heritage Tours are available on 26 July 2026

Visitors may join a guided tour in either English or Mandarin.

English: 10.30am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm
Mandarin: 10.30am, 1pm and 4pm
*Timings subject to change; participants will be notified of any changes via email.

Sign up for the next Istana Heritage Tour now: here.

Terms and Conditions

A. Admission Procedures into the Istana Open House (IOH).

1. Admission into the IOH is via the Main Gate at Orchard Road only. The nearest MRT station is Dhoby Ghaut.
2. Entry is subject to security checks. Prohibited objects include pointed and sharp objects (e.g., knives of any size, forks, scissors), flammable items (e.g. lighters, aerosol sprays), tripods, and canned items (e.g., canned food and drinks, as well as aerosol cans).
3. There are no storage facilities at the Istana. Security personnel reserve the right to deny entry to visitors with prohibited items.
4. Admission to the IOH may be restricted due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
5. In the event of lightning risk, the IOH may be suspended or cancelled. Visitors on the Istana grounds can seek shelter at the tentages. Please avoid taking shelter under trees or canopies. Visitors may also seek shelter at nearby malls.

Istana Main Gate

B. Visitor Etiquette and Safe Management Measures within the Istana Grounds

1. Visitors who are feeling unwell on that day are strongly encouraged not to visit the Istana.
2. Visitors are requested to maintain good hygiene.
3. Smoking, including the use of e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the Istana grounds.
4. Please keep the Istana grounds litter-free.
5. Activities such as wheeled sports (e.g., cycling, rollerblading, riding Personal Mobility Devices) are not allowed.
6. No pets are allowed except certified guide dogs.

More information can be found here.

What is the ‘Istana’?

The Istana, which means ‘Palace’ in Malay, is a significant historical landmark in Singapore. Built by the British colonial government in 1869, the Istana grounds cover an area of about 40 hectares and have witnessed many important events in Singapore’s history. It is also home to some 260 plant species and diverse wildlife.

🎉🇸🇬 SINGAPORE NATIONAL DAY 2026 🇸🇬🎉

Singapore turns 61 this year, and it’s time to celebrate in style! From family-friendly activities to special SG61 events happening across the island, there’s something for everyone this National Day weekend. So, dress in red and white, gather your loved ones, and soak in the festive spirit!

🎆 Didn’t manage to score NDP tickets at the National Stadium? No worries! You can still catch the action, rehearsals, and fireworks at various locations around Singapore. Check out the best viewing spots, dates, and timings here:
👉 National Day Parade Timings & Where to Catch NDP Fireworks

September School Holiday 2026

It is the one-week September school break. Do check out our compilation of exciting September School Holidays Activities 2026 in Singapore.

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