One of the must-see attractions in Little India, Singapore is the Sri Veeramakaliamman temple. This 19th-century Hindu temple is located on Serangoon Road and is renowned for its stunning exterior adorned with hundreds of colourful statues. The temple features a wedding hall and a multipurpose hall and is a popular spot for photography. The temple's interior is equally impressive, but it can get crowded, especially on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays when devotees come to pay their respects. Admission to the temple is free, but visitors are advised to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple. Visiting the Sri Veeramakaliamman temple is an essential part of the Little India experience and is a great way to immerse yourself in Singapore's rich culture and history.
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Little India in Singapore offers a vibrant cultural experience that's worth exploring, and one of the most interesting things to do there is to visit the Indian Heritage Centre. This modern building is located in the heart of Little India and features a unique exterior inspired by an Indian stepwell. The museum showcases the history of Indians in Singapore and their relationship with Southeast Asia from the 1st century to the present day. With objects and displays spanning four floors, the Indian Heritage Centre is a must-visit attraction in Little India. It's a great place to start your day or take a break from the heat on a hot day.
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One of the must-do things in Little India Singapore is a visit to the Little India Arcade. This group of shophouses, dating back to the 1920s, is renowned for its low-cost items. It's a shopper's paradise, with little lanes selling colorful fabrics, traditional delicacies, henna tattoos, and other tempting souvenirs. The building's near-original state has been preserved, and it has earned heritage status among locals in Singapore. The area's early colonial architecture adds to its charm, making it a favorite spot for travelers looking for a bargain or a unique memento of their trip to Singapore.
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Located in Little India, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a historic Hindu temple built in honor of the deity Vishnu. It is considered the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore and attracts both locals and tourists who come to pay their respects to the deities. The temple is also a significant venue during the Thaipusam festival, a major event in Indian culture, where devotees pierce their bodies as a form of devotion to Lord Murugan, the god of war. If you're visiting Little India, a trip to the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a must-do activity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness a traditional Hindu festival.
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If you're looking for a unique shopping experience in Little India, Singapore, Mustafa Center is a must-visit destination. This 24-hour shopping center offers an extensive selection of designer goods at affordable prices, including fabrics, watches, and gadgets. Unlike traditional malls, Mustafa Center is more like an indoor market with narrow aisles packed with a wide variety of items. It's a perfect place to find Asian-inspired gifts to take back home. The jewelry section is one of the main attractions, with gold available at a low price. Mustafa Center is a great place to invest in handcrafted accessories with an eclectic ethnic flair. With so much to see and explore, Mustafa Center is one of the top things to do in Little India, Singapore.
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Abdul Gafoor Mosque, located in the heart of Little India, is a testament to Singapore's rich cultural heritage. Originally built in 1859, the mosque has undergone extensive renovations over the years, resulting in a unique blend of Southern Indian, Moorish, and Victorian architectural styles. Visitors can admire the intricate crescent moon and star designs on the external walls, as well as the minaret-like features and small domes atop the roof parapet. However, the main highlight is the stunning Arabic-style glass dome, supported by Roman pillars, which is a must-see for anyone visiting Little India in Singapore.
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One of the must-visit places in Little India Singapore is Tan Teng Niah's House. This colorful two-story home, built in 1900, is a rare example of Chinese architecture from Singapore's colonial era. Located on Kerbau Road, the house is lovingly preserved by the local community, and its vibrant rainbow colors make it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. Although the interiors are not open to the public, visitors can take pictures of the exterior free of charge. After snapping some shots, visitors can head to the adjoining courtyard for a delicious biryani dinner and enjoy the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Little India.
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One of the top things to do in Little India Singapore is to visit the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, the biggest Buddhist shrine in the area. Established in 1927, the temple began as a small shelter built by a Thai monk to house a Buddha statue. Over the years, with donations from devotees, the temple has grown in size and grandeur. Today, the temple boasts a magnificent 15-meter tall Buddha statue, which is surrounded by an endless chain of lights, earning it the nickname "Temple of a Thousand Lights." A visit to this shrine is a must for anyone seeking spiritual solace in Singapore's bustling Little India.
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One of the best things to do in Little India Singapore is to take a walk along Serangoon Road. This historic road cuts through the heart of Little India, offering a glimpse into the area's vibrant culture and traditions. As you stroll along the road, you'll pass by numerous roadside stalls selling local food and handmade goods, giving you the opportunity to sample the local culture. While there are plenty of organized markets in and around Little India, walking along Serangoon Road provides a unique opportunity to explore the local neighborhoods and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of this bustling area.
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The Mahatma Gandhi Memorial in Singapore is a significant landmark that was built in 1950 following a visit by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. The memorial was funded entirely by the Indian community in Singapore and its foundation stone was laid by the then-president himself. Although the building fell into disrepair in the 1990s, it was restored by the Hindi Society in 2008 and stands as a conserved building today. This historic site is now one of the most revered attractions in Little India, and visitors can explore the area to experience the vibrant culture, food, and shopping that the neighborhood has to offer.
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Little India Singapore is a vibrant neighborhood that boasts a rich culture and history, and is home to numerous colorful murals that reflect this. These murals, painted by locals, are scattered throughout the area and depict everything from daily life to significant events in history. Each mural has a unique name and serves as a prominent landmark in the precinct. Popular murals include Alive@Clive, Jasmine Flower, Trishaw Man & Samsui Woman, Kathaka, and Loops of the Precious. Exploring these murals is an excellent way to experience the vibrant and artistic side of Little India and capture some fantastic photo opportunities.
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Located in the heart of Little India, Leong San See Temple is one of Singapore's most stunning Buddhist temples. Originally established as a few houses where Reverend Chun Wu cared for the ill, the current temple was built in 1926 and is a beautifully preserved structure. The temple is particularly popular among parents who come to pray for their children's wisdom, with an altar dedicated to Confucius. On certain days, vegetarian food is also offered to worshippers in the ancestral hall. Visiting Leong San See Temple is one of the top things to do in Little India, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this vibrant neighborhood.
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Here are some of the best places to eat in Little India:
Here are some other things to do near Little India:
Little India is a vibrant neighborhood in Singapore that can be visited throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Little India is during the annual Deepavali (also known as Diwali) festival, which usually takes place between October and November. During this time, the streets of Little India come alive with colorful decorations, traditional music, and dance performances. It is a great opportunity to experience the rich Indian culture and heritage of the neighborhood. Additionally, the weather in Singapore is generally warm and humid throughout the year, so visitors may want to consider this when planning their trip.
There are several ways to reach Little India, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation. Here are some of the most common ways:
Overall, the best way to reach Little India depends on your starting point and personal preference. However, the MRT is often the most convenient and efficient mode of transportation for visitors.