Istana Open House

Opening hours
Address

The Istana welcomes the public to visit its grounds during Istana Open Houses, held up to five times yearly.

Each Open House features live performances and family-friendly activities. Please note the Istana Main Building is currently closed for restoration until further notice.

Entry to the Istana grounds is free for Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents, and migrant domestic workers accompanying families. Other visitors pay an admission fee of $20 per adult and $10 per child (4 to 12 years). Additional fees apply for other activities, such as the Istana Heritage Tour and visiting the Villa.

Istana Heritage Tour

Embark on a guided tour of the Istana grounds to explore its rich history, architectural heritage, and unique flora and fauna. The 1-hour walking tour begins at the Main Gate and features highlights such as the Villa, Japanese Garden, and Ceremonial Plaza.

Tours are conducted in English and Mandarin every hour from 9am to 4pm. Fees apply*, and all proceeds go to the benefitting organisations supported by the President’s Challenge.

*Fees for the Istana Heritage Tour are non-refundable and exclude the following admission fees:
(i) Admission fees required for entry into the Istana grounds during the Istana Open House and,
(ii) fees for entering the Istana Villa.

Souvenirs

There will be merchandise booths offering limited-edition Istana souvenirs and President’s Challenge souvenirs, available while stocks last. Only cashless payments via Credit/Debit Card and/or QR Codes will be accepted.

All proceeds will go to the benefitting agencies supported by President’s Challenge. The social service agencies supported by the President’s Challenge include those from the following sectors:

Children, Youth & Family
Disability
Eldercare
Mental Health
Rehabilitation
Healthcare
Disability Sports

The souvenirs include memorabilia such as:

Caps
Mugs
Bookmarks
Postcards
Luggage Tags
Keychains
Magnets

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.

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 details

Image Credit: The Istana