Tel‑East Coast Line Stage 3: Singapore’s New Express Way
After years of construction, the Thomson‑East Coast Line Stage 3 (TEL3) stations have finally opened their doors, turning the city’s commuting game on its head. If you’re a commuter who’s kept a mental calendar, you’ll remember the first two stages:
Quick‑Remember Timeline
- Stage 1 – Jan 2020 – Linked Woodlands to the North‑South Line.
- Stage 2 – Aug 2021 – Added fresh stops around Thomson.
- Stage 3 – Nov 13, 2023 – Over 11 new stations, including four interchange hubs.
From Woodlands South to Orchard in a Flash
Previously, a trip that heard “bus plus MRT” sounded like a 50‑minute marathon. Now, that same stretch completes in just 35 minutes, meaning you can actually earn that extra hour for a dessert or a spontaneous karaoke session.
What’s New?
- Four interchange stations that make hopping between lines a breeze.
- Stations that put a glass of water right on your doorstep at
Great World City and Gardens by the Bay – because who needs a water‑kiosk when a train is so close?
Other Hot Spots Now Super‑Easy to Reach
Thanks to TEL3, a host of favourite destinations are more reachable than ever. Here’s a snapshot of added convenience:
- Little India – Now a 10‑minute ride, so you can pick up that special curry without a detour.
- Chinatown – Quick access means extra dumplings at the market are a reality.
- Marina Bay – A 15‑minute hop out of the city centre, where lights and skyline photos await.
- Raffles Hotel – For the luxury lovers, a direct line straight to indulgence.
- Pocket Park – Coffee runs at the park are now a reality, not a dream.
With TEL3 on the map, Singapore’s MRT system is now booking a major upgrade in coverage and convenience. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional traveler seeking a shortcut, the new line’s opening lets you skip the long legs and savour the journey instead.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
How to Hit the Botanic Gardens From Napier MRT
Ever dreamed of strolling through the lush green heart of Singapore but worried about the commute? Chill—Napier MRT is your golden ticket.
Why Napier?
- Convenience: The northern side of the Botanic Gardens has always been a quick jog away, but the southern edge—closest to Tanglin—kicks it up a notch, sliding into a stone‑throw distance from Napier.
- Want to see the Swan Lake, the National Orchid Garden, the Gallop Extension, or the iconic Bandstand? All of those gems are just a hop, skip, and a jump from the southern entrance.
Start With a Brunch Break
Before you get swept into the greenery, treat yourself to a tasty bite. Two favourite stops are only a seven‑minute walk from the station:
- Open Farm Community – Enjoy farm‑fresh food with a side of wholesome vibes.
- Tiong Bahru Bakery – Safari – Sweet treats and a cozy atmosphere to fuel your botanical adventure.
Other Handy Spots Nearby
- Gleneagles Hospital – Quick medical drop‑off if you need it.
- US Embassy – International diplomacy at your doorstep.
- Australian High Commission – Friendly Aussie min‑styleness close by.
So whether you’re a green‑thumb guru or just a casual wanderer, Napier MRT has your back—and the Botanic Gardens’ wonders are practically at your feet.
Tanglin Mall
Finding Tanglin Mall Made Easy
Good news, commuters! No more bus bummers or marathon strolls from Orchard to Tanglin Mall. Just hop off at Orchard Boulevard station, and the mall’s cordoned right in your reach.
And while you’re there, you can swing by a few hotspots:
- Camden Medical – fresh meds and friendly vibes
- Hotel Jen – a cozy lodging spot
- Regent Singapore – where elegance meets convenience
So next time you’re heading to Tanglin, make sure you catch the MRT at Orchard Boulevard and leave the hard walks for your vacation photo collection.
Great World
Closest MRT Station: Great World
Great World: once the heartbeat of downtown, now the town where everyone vibes
Ever heard of the old Great World City? It was a bustling nexus of shoppers and wanderers, kinda like a maze that you always felt you’d lost your way in. But hold onto your hats—this gem has been doing a full makeover, shifting from “just okay” to brimming with flair and fresh energy.
What’s happening nearby?
- Zion Riverside Food Centre – the spot where the food makes your mouth do the thank‑you dance.
- Valley Point Shopping Mall – perfect for snagging sweet bargains while you chill out.
- River Valley shophouse cafés – cozy spots to sip a latte and sketch away your next big idea.
Tan Boon Liat Building
Hey There, Homeware Heroes! New MRT Station Near You
Ever had to haul a mountain of homewares from the Tan Boon Liat building, then hustling to the bus stop and finally scrambling to catch the MRT? Don’t sweat it — the brand‑new Havelock MRT station is just a stone‑throw away, a quick 550‑metre stroll from where you’re standing.
What’s Around the Corner?
- Giok Hong Tien Temple – a serene escape for a moment of calm
- Holiday Inn Atrium – a comfy spot if you want to stretch those feet or grab a drink
Grab your bags, put on your best walking shoes, and you’ll be at the MRT in no time — no more endless tug‑of‑war with your gear. We’re all about easy commutes today!
Maxwell Food Centre
Maxwell MRT: Your New Lunch HQ
Picture this: you’re strolling from Tanjong Pagar or Chinatown, craving a bite at Maxwell Food Centre. Traditionally, that meant braving the waves of people and the buzz of the hawker stalls. But guess what? With the Maxwell MRT Station just a hop, skip, and a skip away, your lunch run has become a breeze—especially when the sun decides to be extra generous.
Why the MRT Matters
- Instant Access: No more sweating the last-minute rush or waiting for a Tuk‑Tuk to arrive.
- Cool Comfort: The underground route keeps you out of the heat—your stomach will thank you.
- Fast and Free: Just hop on, and poof you’re right outside the food paradise.
Other Sweet Spots Nearby
- Marina One – sleek office vibes, perfect for office lunches or a quick coffee.
- OUE Downtown 2 – trendy retail and dining spots that will make you rethink office breaks.
Next time you’re craving a tasty treat, forget the traffic chaos and head straight to the Maxwell MRT. It’s quick, it’s cool, and best of all, it’s a shortcut straight to the best local eats. Bon appétit!
Gardens by the Bay
Now You Can Skip the Long Haul to Gardens by the Bay
Just a couple of weeks ago, the only way to get to Singapore’s iconic Gardens by the Bay was a short walk from Marina Bay MRT or a detour through Marina Bay Sands. Easy, right? Of course not—no one wants to cram a stroller, shopping bags, or a full belly onto a cramped tram. Thankfully, the brand‑new Gardens by the Bay MRT Station has opened, so you can hop off straight at the archway (or at the Marina Barrage, 11 minutes away by foot).
What’s Right Around the Corner?
- A quick 11‑minute stroll brings you to Marina Barrage for some water‑world vibes.
- Satay by the Bay serves mouth‑watering skewers—perfect for satisfying that craving as you hit the gardens.
- In the near future, the Thomson‑East Coast Line (TEL3) will add more stops, opening up fantastic access to Katong, Marine Parade, and Siglap. Imagine all those bakery delights and cozy cafés now just a blast away!
Upcoming TEL3 Highlights
The TEL3 line will finish rolling out in 2025. Once the remaining stations are live, commuters will enjoy
- Fast, reliable transit to Eastside hotspots.
- Easy transitions between neighborhoods—no more walking a mile from kiosk to kiosk.
- A snug ride that gives you more time to soak up sights—and snacks.
Until that sweet spot opens up, happy shopping, craving junkfood, and exploring the TEL3!
Get the Full Details
Want the scoop on the rest of the stations and everything in between? Check out the LTA’s TEL3 digital brochure and their Thomson‑East Coast Line page. If you’re looking for inspiration, read the original piece on Wonderwall.sg.
Enjoy the new, convenient hop—and remember: the future of Singapore’s metro will keep your feet light and your heart light‑hearted!
