Little India is a district in Singapore that offers a rich cultural experience. The bustling streets are filled with traditional eateries, colourful markets, iconic temples, and hidden gems that truly reflect Indian culture. From indulging in delicious street food to exploring unique shops, here's your guide to the best experiences in Little India for every Singaporean and tourist.
Dive into the past at the Indian Heritage Centre
Step into the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC), where history comes alive in the heart of Little India!
Far from your average museum, the IHC serves as a vibrant cultural hub within the Singapore National Heritage Board’s museum family. It's a place where the past meets the present through a dynamic calendar of performances, workshops, symposiums, masterclasses, and festive events that celebrate the Indian community in Singapore.
As you wander the five permanent galleries, you'll uncover a treasure trove of artefacts and stories that spotlight the Indian community’s rich history. From ceremonial gold to rubies and textiles, the IHC has on display an array of personal and communal treasures not to be missed.
Enhance your visit with virtual guides and interactive gameplay that make history come alive and relevant. These engaging features are designed to deepen your understanding of the exhibits, while ongoing research initiatives promise the thrill of new discoveries and stories with each visit.
Alternatively, join a complimentary guided tour led by knowledgeable docents who provide insights into the scholarly research and personal stories behind the exhibits. Starting from the 1st-century interactions, these 60-minute tours offer a comprehensive exploration of the Indian legacy in Singapore.
And for those visiting in groups, worry not—the IHC accommodates up to 20 guests per tour, making it a perfect educational outing for schools, families, and history buffs alike.
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays - 10:00am to 6:00pm
Address: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
Admission: Free admission for Singaporeans and PRs
Discover Indian cuisine at Little India's traditional eateries
Ready to tickle your taste buds? Embark on a gastronomic adventure through the heart of Little India, where the tantalising aroma of authentic Indian cuisine and aromatic spices fill the streets and beckons food lovers from all walks of life.
As you meander through the place, the fusion of flavours from different regions of India fills the air, inviting you to sample a delectable array of Indian street food.
Whether you're a fan of hearty vegetarian dishes or a connoisseur of succulent meats and seafood, explore the countless eateries and choose from a wide range of vegetarian, meat, and seafood dishes.
A must-try is the iconic biryani, a flavorful rice dish that's a staple in Indian cuisine. It's traditionally made by layering basmati rice with marinated meats like chicken, goat, lamb, beef, prawn, or fish, all infused with a variety of fragrant spices. For those who prefer a vegetarian feast, fear not! Vegetarian versions are equally popular, featuring hearty vegetables and sometimes paneer (Indian cottage cheese) as substitutes for meat.
As you explore, make sure to drop by some of the famous Indian eateries and cafes here, such as Mr Biryani, Madras New Woodlands, and Banana Leaf Apolo, for an experience wrapped in tradition so much so that it will transport your senses to the heart of South India.
Explore the vibrant Little India shops and markets
Venture into the colourful markets and stores in Little India, where you can find a variety of traditional Indian clothing, aromatic spices, unique trinkets, and more. As you walk down the bustling streets, the vibrant displays of traditional Indian clothing are bound to catch your eye, with mannequins draped in elegant sarees and sparkling accessories. The elegance of sarees, the shimmer of bangles, and the rich colours of tunics, plus the symphony of Kollywood or Bollywood beats and spiritual music emanating from the CD shops, create a lively backdrop as you explore.
Among the diverse offerings, it's common to encounter stalls with jasmine flowers crafted into floral wreaths. These fragrant decorations are not only beautiful but also hold cultural significance, often used in weddings, religious ceremonies, and as offerings in temples.
Of course, you’ll have to immerse yourself in a shopping experience like no other at the Tekka Market, a bustling wet market along Buffalo Road known for its array of fresh produce and affordable goods. The first floor is a foodie’s delight, featuring a food centre where you can indulge in everything from aromatic biryani to thosai (thin, crispy pancake). The other half of the first floor houses the wet market section, where locals shop for their daily meats, seafood, and more, all fresh and at competitive prices.
If you're in the mood for some serious shopping, ascend to the second floor, where you'll find an array of traditional Indian costumes. It's a haggler's paradise—be prepared to negotiate to snag the best deals. Hidden among these stalls, tucked away in random corners, are tailors, surrounded by piles of fabric, ready to custom-make garments. Note, however, that turnaround times can extend significantly during festive periods due to high demand.
For those who love a good find, Serangoon Road is your next stop. Discover a myriad of textiles and accessories perfect for a traditional Indian outfit at the shops along the roads. And if your shopping list extends beyond fabric, don't forget to visit Mustafa Centre, a shopping mall along Syed Alwli Road that offers an extensive range of products at affordable prices.
This 24-hour shopping paradise for beauty enthusiasts. You can find an impressive selection of cosmetics, skincare products, hair care essentials, and fragrances. If snagging a bottle of designer perfume at slashed prices sounds appealing, this is your go-to spot. Additionally, if you're preparing for a trip and need new luggage, Mustafa Centre offers a variety of suitcases and travel bags at very competitive prices.
Visit iconic temples in Little India, Singapore
Uncover the rich history and spiritual significance of Indian culture by visiting the iconic temples in Little India, each brimming with cultural stories and architectural marvels.
A visit to the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest temples in Singapore, is a must with its intricate architecture and beautiful shrines. Originally known as "Soonambu Kambam Kovil" or “temple at the village of lime,” it was named after the lime kilns in the area.
In 1908, when daily-rated municipal labourers managed the temple, they imported a statue of the goddess Kali from South India and built the main hall and shrine. By the 1930s, additional significant statues were installed, enhancing its spiritual and architectural richness. Today, it stands as a conserved building, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Indian community in Singapore.
About a 10-minute walk from here, experience the serenity of the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, known for its stunning tower adorned with colourful statues of Hindu deities. The temple serves as a focal point for the annual Thaipusam festival, drawing devotees and tourists alike to witness its grand processions.
20 minutes away, Masjid Abdul Gafoor is another striking example of the rich architectural heritage found among Singapore's religious sites. This mosque serves as a living monument to the Tamil and Baweanese pioneers whose contributions were vital to the development of colonial Singapore.
As you wander through these sacred sites, learn about the cultural traditions of these temples, including their religious practices and festivals.
Immerse in festive celebrations on Deepavali
Every year, as Deepavali approaches, Little India transforms into a kaleidoscope of light and colour, with elaborate decorations and lights, celebrating the festival of lights. Starting back in 1989, the Deepavali Light-Up has since become a key highlight of Singapore's cultural calendar.
In 2024, for example, the streets were ablaze with vibrant colours, lighting up more than 2km of the district with a festive brilliance that could light up the night sky.
Lights and decorations aside, this festival also brings with it a flurry of activity. Dive into the festive flavours with a variety of traditional dishes and sweets in the food bazaar. Right in the heart of this bustling festival is the Deepavali Festival Village along Campbell Lane. Coming alive during the festive season, this bustling marketplace will be filled with stalls selling traditional Indian clothing, snacks, intricate handicrafts, and festive decorations at a bargain.
Try henna art in Little India
For a more immersive cultural experience, try out henna art, a traditional Indian body art form.
Henna, also known as Mehndi, is a form of body art from ancient India, where intricate designs are created on a person's skin using a paste made from the henna plant. It is most commonly associated with weddings and is an essential part of bridal preparations in Indian culture. It's believed to relieve the bride of any stress before her big day and is also thought to bring good fortune and blessings to the bride and groom. Apart from its cultural significance, henna art is also a popular choice for tourists seeking a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
There are several stalls and shops in Little India that offer henna services, each with its unique style of designs. From classic floral motifs to modern designs that twist up the arm in stunning spirals, swing by one of the bustling henna stalls and let the artists work their magic.
What to know before your visit to Little India
Little India is easily accessible via the Little India MRT station, making it a convenient spot for a day trip.
And while you’re likely to get by with English just fine, why not spice up your visit by sprinkling a few Tamil phrases into your interactions? It’s a fun way to connect with store owners and adds an authentic twist to your cultural expedition. And who knows? You might just get a friendlier price on that gorgeous saree!
When you’re weaving through the vibrant area, be sure to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
The best time to visit Little India is during Indian festivals such as Deepavali when the streets come alive with celebrations.
Experience the rich culture of Little India
Your journey through Little India promises a vibrant blend of culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this bustling district and discover the rich traditions of Indian culture in the heart of Singapore.
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