Little India

Little India Singapore Attractions

Little India offers a unique blend of religious, historical, and architectural landmarks that tell the story of Singapore’s diverse culture. It's the perfect place for a trip focused on history and cultural discovery.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

The district is defined by its stunning spiritual sites. The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, located on Serangoon Road, is one of Singapore’s oldest and most prominent Hindu temples, dedicated to the fierce goddess Kali. Its towering, intricately carved gopuram (entrance tower) is an unforgettable sight.

Nearby, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is famous for its massive gopuram and serves as a key starting point for the annual Thaipusam festival. Visitors may also spot a Thai monk during temple rituals, adding to the spiritual experience.

Masjid Abdul Gaffoor

Providing a beautiful contrast, the Masjid Abdul Gaffoor mosque stands as a national monument, showcasing a striking blend of Southern Indian, Moorish, and Victorian architectural styles, perfectly demonstrating the multi-religious character of Little India Singapore.

House of Tan Teng Niah

Easily the most photographed building in the district is the Tan Teng Niah House. This last remaining Chinese villa is famous for its vibrant, rainbow-coloured exterior and stands as a colourful symbol of the area’s early multicultural history

Indian Heritage Centre

For those seeking deeper knowledge of Indian culture and the local community's history, the modern Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) offers fascinating interactive exhibits covering everything from early migration to the impact of festivals and cinema.

Street Art in Little India

Beyond the main thoroughfares, visitors can explore the back alleys off Serangoon Road to find striking murals that capture the spirit of the area. Be sure to look for the famous "Working Class Hero" mural near the car park at Hindoo Road, a powerful piece that speaks to the area's history as a hub for migrant workers and early settlers. Exploring these alleys is also a great way to experience street food and small indian snacks from local vendors.

Foodie Guide to Little India Singapore

Little India is a food lover's paradise, famous for authentic, flavourful Indian cuisine served in traditional styles.

Hawker Centres & Markets: The Spice Hub

The vibrant Tekka Centre is an essential stop. It houses a huge wet market downstairs and a famous hawker centre upstairs, making it the perfect place to sample affordable, authentic food from various cuisines. You absolutely must try the authentic mutton dum biryani (Tekka is famous for this!), crispy Masala Thosai, and other local-style mutton curry dishes here. Don’t forget to explore the busy markets for fresh produce, spices, and flower shop offerings.

Best Indian Restaurants in Little India

From dining on traditional banana leaves to rich North Indian curries, the sit-down dining options are superb.

For the iconic local experience, visit Banana Leaf Apolo or Muthu's Curry to try their famous Fish Head Curry. Your meal will be served on banana leaves with rice and curries; eating with your hands is part of the tradition! For pure vegetarian dining, Komala Vilas is a historic institution known for its delicious South Indian fare like thalis and dosas.

Don't leave without tasting the sweets and drinks. Visit the Moghul Sweet Shop for traditional mithai (Indian sweets), and be sure to finish your meal with a cup of authentic, foamy teh tarik.

Shopping in Little India singapore

Retail therapy in Little India is an experience of its own, a "bit chaotic," perhaps, but endlessly rewarding.

Mustafa Centre: The 24/7 Giant

No visit is complete without a trip to the iconic, 24/7 Mustafa Centre. This sprawling department store sells absolutely everything imaginable, from the latest electronics and household goods to a vast selection of spices, fabric, beauty products, and a renowned selection of gold. It’s a true retail labyrinth and a one-stop-shop for travelers.

Little India's Gold Jewellery Shops

The stretch of Serangoon Road is particularly famous for its concentration of little india gold shops. Unlike international chains, these stores specialise in 916 (22-karat) gold and intricate traditional Indian designs, often heavier and more detailed than standard Western jewellery. This is where the local Indian community purchases gold for festivals and weddings.

Souvenirs, Spices, and Flower Shops

For unique gifts, the Little India Arcade and stalls along Campbell Lane are the ideal places to find Indian souvenirs, traditional clothing (saris), aromatic spices, henna artists, flower shop arrangements, and prayer items.

Tekka Centre

Experience the vibrant Tekka market, home to the largest wet market in Singapore. Shop for Indian clothes, fresh produce, and enjoy a variety of hawker stalls offering South Indian dishes like idli and dosa.

Getting to Little India Singapore

The MRT is the quickest and easiest way to access the district.

• Little India MRT Station (DTL/NEL): This station is best for accessing the Indian Heritage Centre, House of Tan Teng Niah, and the temples on the southern end of Serangoon Road.

• Farrer Park MRT Station (NEL): Use this stop for easier access to the northern end of Serangoon Road, Mustafa Centre, and Syed Alwi Road.

The district is also well-served by buses and has designated taxi stands along the main routes like Race Course Road nd Hastings Road.

Best Time to Visit & Crowd Advice

To enjoy the bustling street atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed, it's best to visit on a weekday morning (10 AM – 12 PM). You should absolutely avoid Sundays, particularly between 2 PM and 7 PM. This is when the district is most crowded, making the area bit chaotic and difficult to navigate due to the gathering of migrant workers on their day off.

For the most spectacular sights, plan your trip to coincide with the weeks leading up to Deepavali (Diwali), the Festival of Lights (usually Oct/Nov). The entire district is decorated with dazzling light displays, making it a true must visit destination.

Nearby Stays and Attractions

For those seeking full cultural immersion, there are many excellent best hotels in singapore little india to choose from. The area is also a short stroll or quick MRT ride from other major cultural precincts like Kampong Glam (Arab Street) and Bugis.