Restricted Visitor Cap of 500 Visitors Per Day Allowed at Kusu Island’s Annual Pilgrimage Season

While some head there to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Kusu Island also attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

Situated on the island are a number of sacred sites, such as the Da Bo Gong Temple and three Malay shrines.

The Kusu Island pilgrimage is typically held during the ninth month of the lunar calendar, which falls between 6 Oct and 4 Nov this year.

Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, there will be some restrictions on visits this year.

Restricted Visitor Cap of 500 Visitors Per Day Allowed at Kusu Island’s Annual Pilgrimage Season

A limit of 500 visitors a day to Kusu Island has been imposed for the upcoming pilgrimage season, as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19.

According to the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), only 30 worshippers will be allowed inside the temple each time, and no more than 15 people within the shrines.

Since long queues are expected, SLA advised visitors to go on weekdays instead of the weekend.

Visitors cannot bring along their pets for the trip, and overnight stays are not permitted.

Tickets Available From Tomorrow (14 Sep)

As it is every year, tickets will be required for those visiting the island during the pilgrimage season.

For adults, tickets cost S$16 on weekdays and S$18 on weekends. Tickets are S$12 for children aged one to 12 on all days.

Each ferry, which will depart at every hour to and from the island, will be permitted to carry a maximum of 50 passengers.

The first ferry will leave Marina South Pier at 7am, and the last at 4pm. Visitors will have to check in with TraceTogether before boarding.

Unlike how it was pre-pandemic, regular ferry services to St John’s Island will not stop at Kusu Island on its return trip to Marina South Pier during this period.

Tickets will go on sale tomorrow (14 Sep) on the Singapore Island Cruise & Ferry Services website.

Successful buyers will receive a confirmation email which they should present at the Marina South Pier ferry counter to get their tickets.

Things You Should Bring

If you are planning to head to Kusu Island for a pilgrimage, there are a couple of things you should bring.

Unless you enjoy being feasted on, mosquito repellent is a must. You should also bring sunscreen to protect you from the scorching sun as well as some food, especially if you have dietary requirements, as there are limited options at the eateries there.

Do note that there are no shelters connected to the Malay shrines, so bring an umbrella too.

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