Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) – Singapore’s Coastal Connector

The Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) is the newest addition to Singapore’s MRT system — designed to improve connectivity between the north, central, and eastern regions. Known for its brown line color and sleek, futuristic stations, the TEL is a game-changer for both locals and tourists, offering direct access to the city center, heritage areas, and the future Changi Airport Terminal 5. You can also explore North South Line Map.

Download Thomson-East Coast Line Map PDF

Line Facts

Line Code: TE

Color: Brown

Operator: SMRT Corporation Ltd

Opened: Phased opening from 2019 to 2025

Number of Stations (2025): 32

Planned Length: ~43 km (once fully completed)

Type: Fully underground, driverless, smart system

Route Overview & Interchanges

The TEL connects Woodlands North in the far north to Sungei Bedok in the east. When completed, it will stretch along the Thomson corridor, through Orchard, the CBD, and down the East Coast.

Key Interchange Stations:

Woodlands (TE2/NS9): North South Line

Caldecott (TE9/CC17): Circle Line

Stevens (TE11/DT10): Downtown Line

Orchard (TE14/NS22): Shopping belt access

Outram Park (TE17/NE3/EW16): Massive triple-line interchange

Marina Bay (TE20/NS27/CE2): Marina district hub

Sungei Bedok (TE31/DT37): Eastern terminus + Downtown Line

Destinations & Attractions on the TEL

Woodlands North: Gateway to Johor Bahru RTS (upcoming)

Orchard (TE14): Orchard Road, ION, Ngee Ann City

Napier (TE12): Singapore Botanic Gardens (UNESCO site)

Outram Park: Chinatown, General Hospital, Tanjong Pagar

Gardens by the Bay (TE22): Bay South and Supertree Grove

Marine Parade (TE26): Beachfront food, hawkers, East Coast Park

What Makes TEL Special?

First MRT line to integrate airport connectivity in the east

Stations feature natural ventilation, energy-efficient lighting, and quiet rides

Real-time crowd data displays help commuters plan better

Connects elite schools, embassies, nature parks, and heritage districts

Future cross-border transit point via Woodlands North RTS Link

Pro Tips for Commuters & Visitors

Orchard TEL station offers direct access to malls without exiting to the street

Gardens by the Bay MRT (TE22) offers fastest access to Marina’s key attractions

Stevens MRT (TE11) connects Bukit Timah & Newton with fewer transfers

Want a peaceful beachside vibe? Hop off at Marine Terrace (TE27) for East Coast Park

Train Times & Frequency

Operating Hours: 5:30am – ~12:00am

Peak Frequency: 4 minutes

Off-Peak: 6 minutes

End-to-End Time (when completed): ~50–55 minutes

Ticketing and Access

Supports EZ-Link, NETS FlashPay, Tourist Pass, and Visa/Mastercard tap-in

All stations equipped with General Ticketing Machines (GTMs)

Use SimplyGo and SMRTConnect for real-time travel planning

What’s Coming Next on TEL

Completion of Stage 4 & 5 by 2025–2026, adding the eastern arc through Marine Parade and Siglap

Direct access to Changi Airport Terminal 5 by early 2030s

Woodlands North RTS Terminal will connect Singapore MRT to Johor Bahru (Malaysia)

Plans for smart stations with automated crowd monitoring, energy-saving escalators, and more

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