Among Singapore’s finest AM to PM destinations, Little India is a vibrant melting pot of colourful murals, spice stalls, souvenir shops, and temples. Traditional goldsmiths and saree boutiques perfectly complement modern cafes and arcades, promising a culturally enriching experience. Our comprehensive guide to Little India will help you plan a well-rounded day in this ethnic district.
Also, explore our guide to the nearby neighbourhood of Kampong Glam.
Little India, Singapore: Star attractions
Tan Teng Niah House
Tucked away in Little India, the Tan Teng Niah House delights with colourful hues and striking architecture. Built in 1900 by a local businessman called Tan Teng Niah, the house features a bamboo-tiled roof, intricately carved floral lunettes, and Chinese calligraphy in gold accents. Needless to say, it’ll compel you to pull out your smartphone and stage a photo op!
Address: 37 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219168
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Indian Heritage Centre
Explore Indian and South Asian history while admiring traditional attire, ceramics, and jewellery in the centre’s exhibits. Be sure to visit the museum, which houses over 400 artefacts, and stroll through the art galleries.
Address: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
Project Oasis Little India Sites
Managed by the Little India Shopkeepers & Heritage Association (LISHA) and the Singapore Tourism Board, this project enhances two neglected areas by installing vibrant art installations, thereby creating pleasant outdoor spaces for visitors to relax and unwind.
Address: Hindoo Road / Clive Street
Also read | Discover Singapore’s Inspiring Art Scene At These Must-Visit Galleries
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
This charming 19th-century temple dedicated to Goddess Kali — the destroyer of evil — is a must-visit in Little India. Whether you’re drawn to the grand entrance adorned with figures of Hindu deities or the majestic statues that greet visitors, every aspect will surely capture your imagination.
Address: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042
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Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple
Among the oldest temples in Singapore, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple — dedicated to Lord Vishnu — features a towering 20-metre gopuram and a stunning statue of Lord Vishnu accompanied by Lakshmi, Andal, and his avian mount, Garuda.
Address: 397 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218123
Abdul Gaffoor Mosque
Constructed in 1859 for the South Indian Muslim merchants and Baweanese pioneers residing in the Kampong Kapor neighbourhood, this mosque is famed for its splendid architecture. As one of Singapore’s national monuments, the Abdul Gaffoor Mosque showcases Southern Indian, Moghul, and European architectural styles.
Also, explore our guide to the most beautiful buildings in Singapore.
Address: 41 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209369
Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple
Commonly called the Temple of a Thousand Lights, this Buddhist monastery — showcasing Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles — features a 15-metre-tall Buddha statue.
Address: 366 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218638
Leong San See Temple
Another Buddhist shrine in Little India worth visiting is the Leong San See Temple (which translates to Dragon Mountain Temple in Mandarin). Dedicated to Guan Yin, or Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, the Taoist Goddess of Mercy, it boasts unique roof carvings that will make you pause and admire.
Address: 371 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218641
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Shopping in Little India
A bouquet of souvenirs, imitation jewellery, bronze statues, and vibrant ceramics awaits in Little India. You can also discover steel kitchenware and a wide selection of Indian groceries here, alongside traditional outfits such as sarees and kurtas. Some of the finest shopping spots in Little India, Singapore, include:
- Little India Arcade: Nestled within a beautiful shophouse building dating back to the 1920s, Little India Arcade houses bangle stalls, jewellery shops, souvenir corners, and sweet shops! It is situated directly opposite the Tekka Centre.
- City Square Mall: Featuring three complimentary playgrounds and a variety of mainstream fashion and dining outlets, this eco-friendly mall is ideal for some retail exercise and coffee to take away!
- Mustafa Centre: An absolute all-rounder in the world of retail, Mustafa Centre offers everything from electronics, dried fruits, beauty products, and fresh produce to baking goods! What’s more? It is open 24/7.
- Tekka Centre: Home to the largest wet market in Singapore, Tekka Centre also houses Indian boutiques, tailoring shops, and hawker centres.
- Tekka Place: Alternatively, make your way to Tekka Place, a shopping centre bustling with trendy dining options, fashion shops, gyms, and coffee houses.
Where to eat
- Sakunthala’s Restaurant: Best known for its South Indian cuisine, such as Mutton Mysore and biryanis. Additionally, explore our guide to restaurants offering Singapore’s finest South Indian-style banana leaf rice.
- Khansama Tandoori Restaurant: Feast on their juicy kebabs, chicken tikka, and butter chicken!
- Banana Leaf Apolo: It is famous for its fish head curry.
- Machan’s Kitchen: Sample Tamil cuisine with staples like Nandu Vengaya Masala and mango fish curry.
- Kotuwa: Rejoice in Sri Lankan delicacies and handcrafted cocktails.
- Mustard: An expert in Bengali and Punjabi cuisine, the chefs at Mustard rustle up delicious Kolkata Lamb Biryani and Chingri Maacher Malai Curry.
- Meatsmith: Go for their barbecue specials and Smoked Cauliflower.
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Where to stay
Just a hop, skip and jump from Little India, consider checking into indulgent establishments such as Raffles Singapore (1.8 km away), The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore (2.9 km away), and Marina Bay Sands (3.2 km away).
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The best time to visit
The best time to explore the pulse of Little India, Singapore, and its happening streets is from February to April when the weather is relatively cool and dry. We also recommend visiting the neighbourhood during Diwali and Pongal festivities for larger-than-life decorations and bustling markets.
Also read | Your Ultimate Guide To Public Transportation In Singapore
How to reach Little India in Singapore
Little India is easily accessible by taxis, trains, and buses. The nearest MRT station is Little India (NE7/DT12), and the closest bus stop is S’Goon Rd – Broadway Hotel (07111).
Tips for people visiting Little India in Singapore
- As you’ll be walking around a great deal to explore the various sights of Little India, we recommend wearing breathable clothes and comfortable footwear. Additionally, if you’re venturing out on a sunny day, be sure to bring along a bottle of water, sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat!
- To avoid crowds, plan your visit before noon or after 6 pm.
- Take sturdy shopping bags if you’re planning to purchase trinkets and groceries from the market.
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(Feature image credit: Choo Yut Shing/Flickr)
Related: Shop, Slurp, And Surf: How To Spend A Perfect Day At Singapore’s Orchard Road
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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Written By
Yashita Vashishth
Senior Digital Writer - Growth, TravelWriter by day, reader by night, Yashita has a flair for all things travel, wellness and food. She has ..Read More
