Singapore’s beloved Live Turtle and Tortoise Museum has reopened its doors for the third time in its history, finally settling into a custom-built home at 11 Chencharu Close in Khatib. After being forced out of its original Chinese Garden location in 2016 due to park redevelopment, and then evicted again from its temporary spot at Orto in 2025 to make way for new HDB BTO flats, the sanctuary—now home to over 600 turtles, tortoises, and terrapins—welcomed visitors again on August 23, 2026.
For owner Connie Tan, the journey has been a test of perseverance. She inherited the museum from her late father and now runs it alongside her son, Jedd. “It felt like déjà vu when we had to leave Orto,” Tan told followers on social media. “But we couldn’t give up on the animals.” The family documented the entire relocation process on Instagram and YouTube, showing the site evolve from a near-barren plot of land into a fully equipped facility with upgraded plumbing and spacious enclosures.
The new space marks a significant upgrade. Unlike its previous rented quarters, this facility was built from the ground up, giving Tan and Jedd direct control over every detail—from the foundation beams to the water filtration systems. The hands-on work meant long days in hard hats and high-vis vests, but the result is a more comfortable, hygienic habitat for the reptiles. “Building from scratch wasn’t glamorous, but it was necessary,” Tan posted. “Now the turtles have more room to thrive.”
What to expect when you visit
The museum remains a family-friendly, walk-in attraction. Guests can get up close with species including the Box Turtle, Indian Star Tortoise, Pig-Nosed Flying Turtle, and Softshell Turtle. Feeding and petting sessions are available for those who want a closer encounter, and group tours can be arranged upon request.
Practical details
- Location: 11 Chencharu Close, Singapore 769287 (within walking distance of Khatib MRT station)
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (closed Tuesdays)
- Admission: $7 for pre-school children and seniors; $11 for adults and other visitors
- Tickets and donations: Available at the museum’s official website
Tan has also released a humorous wayfinding video on Instagram to help first-timers navigate the short walk from the MRT station and find parking.
Broader impact
The museum’s repeated relocations highlight a growing challenge for Singapore’s niche heritage attractions: balancing urban development with the preservation of unique, family-run institutions. Tan’s persistence—bolstered by community donations and volunteer support—offers a blueprint for other small museums facing displacement. For now, the turtles have a permanent shell. The question remains whether Singapore’s rapid redevelopment cycle will give them—and their human caretakers—the long-term stability they deserve.