About
Mandai is an exciting district for those who have forgotten that human beings are part of the animal kingdom. Best known for being the location of the Singapore Zoological Gardens, or the zoo, Mandai is a scenic area where flora, fauna and animals mingle in the not-so-harsh wilderness. Apart from the acclaimed zoo, which really is beautifully landscaped, Mandai does resemble the jungle environment of pre-developed Singapore. With a large area of mangrove swamps, the district is inaccessible but beautiful. Perhaps it is beautiful because it is inaccessible. After all, we all want what we can't have.

History
This district is named after the Mandai tree. Like many other districts in Singapore, Mandai was given its name before the 1800s, during a time when jungles were a much more common part of the environment. The name first appeared in the historical records of 1828, in Franklin & Jackson 's Plan of Singapore. There, ‘Mandai' referred to a river running from Woodlands to the Straits of Johor. Later on in 1855, a road of the same name was built.

Places of Interest
After Singapore gained its independence, Mandai allocated one of Singapore 's tourist enclaves. Today, it is houses the Singapore Zoological Gardens, which is known to Singaporeans as the Mandai Zoo. The Zoo comprises a Night Safari as well. Mandai Orchid Garden is also in this district, displaying collections of Singapore 's national flower.

• Singapore Zoological Gardens
  Officially opened in 1973, the Singapore Zoological Gardens spans 28 hectares, all landscaped according to an open zoo concept. In other words, it is made to resemble the wild - animals are not caged. Guided by a wildlife conservation policy, the zoo preserves endangered species and pays close attention to animal welfare. Home to 315 different species (excluding humans), the zoo attracts 1.4 million visitors a year and has won multiple awards of excellence. Walk or take a tram across the zoo and watch the numerous animal shows. Alternatively, observe the animals being fed or go on a wildlife tour.
• Night Safari
  The Night Safari is the world's first night-time man-made wildlife park (itself an oxymoron). Like the zoo, it is based on an open concept and utilizes subtle lighting to illuminate the animals. Occupying 40 hectares, the Night Safari is divided into eight geographical zones, each representing an area of the globe. For example, the Himalayan Foothills zone attempts to recreate the mountains of the region and houses animals from there. To enhance your experience in the Night Safari, you can sip a cocktail or have a meal on tram while you gaze at the wilderness.
• Mandai Orchid Garden
  Set up in 1951 by John Laycock, Mandai Orchid Garden began as a 10 acre piece of land meant for personal and commercial uses. In 1961, it became an officially authorized tourist sport recognized under the Singapore Tourism Board. This garden boasts a variety of unique and rare orchids and recounts to visitors the tale of orchid cultivation in the olden days. In addition, it includes a Water Garden, a herb and spice enclosure and a fruit orchard.
• Mandai Mangroves
  Mandai Mangroves lead to Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve and are often considered part of it. This is a popular location for bird-watching, fishing and crab-catching. The Mandai Mangroves are located in the vicinity of Sungei Mandai, the river that began the story of the Mandai district. Today, the area is one of the habitats of rare flora, fauna and animals in Singapore.