Little India Singapore: A Complete Travel Guide to Culture, Food & History

Little India is one of Singapore’s most dynamic and colorful neighborhoods. Walking through its streets feels like stepping into a world where tradition and modern life collide in a vibrant fusion of temples, textiles, curries, and culture.
 

From the scent of jasmine garlands to the rhythm of devotional music, Little India is not just a place—it’s an experience. Ideal for travelers seeking cultural immersion, authentic cuisine, and striking photo opportunities.

🧭 How to Get There

🚇 MRT Station: Little India (NE7/DT12) or Rochor (DT13)

🚌 Bus Lines: 23, 64, 65, 131

🏨 Located in Central Singapore, just north of Orchard Road

Best explored on foot—wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera!

🕌 Cultural and Religious Landmarks

Little India is home to some of the most stunning temples and shrines in Singapore, reflecting Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim influences.

1. 🛕 Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Dedicated to Kali, the goddess of power

One of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore

Built by Tamil workers in the late 19th century

Features intricate gopurams (gateway towers) and colorful statues

📸 Photography allowed outside and inside (respectfully during non-prayer times).

2. 🕌 Abdul Gaffoor Mosque

A historic mosque built in 1907

Known for its Islamic-Saracenic architecture and ornate façade

Serves the Indian Muslim community

Unique blend of Moorish and Southern Indian design elements

3. 🛕 Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple (Temple of a Thousand Lights)

Thai-influenced Buddhist temple

Home to a 15-meter tall seated Buddha statue

Illuminated by hundreds of lights during festivals

🛍 What to See & Do in Little India

🌸 1. Wander Along Serangoon Road

The lifeline of Little India, Serangoon Road is buzzing with activity—florists, spice shops, money changers, and sari boutiques.

Buy fresh flower garlands or incense

Shop for Indian spices, herbs, and Ayurvedic oils

Try on a sari or traditional kurta

Marvel at street murals and heritage buildings

🎨 2. Take a Street Art Tour

Campbell Lane and Clive Street: Filled with wall murals depicting Indian culture and history

Murals by artists like Pann Lim and TraseOne

Themes include traditional music, dance, and festivals

🛍 3. Mustafa Centre – The 24-Hour Shopping Wonderland

Open 24/7

A giant labyrinth of electronics, groceries, cosmetics, gold, textiles

Affordable and packed with rare finds

A must-visit for bargain hunters

🍛 What to Eat in Little India

Little India is a food lover’s paradise—from street snacks to sit-down curries, the choices are endless and delicious.

🍽️ Top Restaurants & Hawker Stalls

Must-Try Dishes

🥘 Fish Head Curry – Iconic Singapore-Indian dish

🫓 Roti Prata – Flaky flatbread with curry dips

🍛 Chicken Biryani – Aromatic rice dish with saffron and spices

🥗 Vegetarian Thali – Balanced meal with rice, dal, chutneys, and sabzi

🥥 Chendol – Icy dessert with coconut milk and gula melaka

🪔 Festivals & Events in Little India

Little India comes alive during major Hindu and Indian cultural festivals. The entire district transforms with lights, decorations, and crowds of celebrants.

🎆 Deepavali (Diwali)

October or November

Streets lit with vibrant lights

Bazaar stalls sell sweets, clothes, jewelry

Cultural shows and performances at Race Course Road

🎉 Thaipusam

January or February

Hindu devotees carry kavadis (burdens) to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

A deeply spiritual and visual experience

🎨 Little India’s Art, Museums & Culture

🏛 Indian Heritage Centre

Modern museum showcasing the history of Indians in Southeast Asia

Permanent and rotating exhibitions

Digital storytelling, artifacts, and interactive displays

Architectural gem blending modern glass with traditional elements

🧘 Wellness & Experiences

🪔 Ayurvedic massages and oil treatments available at wellness centers

🎨 Henna tattoo stalls line the lanes

🧵 Textile shops offering custom tailoring for sarees, suits, and punjabis

💡 Cultural tours and walking heritage trails hosted by locals

📸 Instagram Hotspots

🛏 Where to Stay Near Little India

🌇 Travel Tips for Little India

✅ Visit in the morning or early evening to avoid heat

🧴 Bring sunscreen and water – you’ll be walking a lot

🧕 Respect cultural norms—dress modestly when entering temples

📷 Always ask permission before photographing people or inside religious spaces

🏪 Bargain respectfully in small shops and markets

🧭 Nearby Attractions

🏛 Bugis Street Market – Great for fashion bargains

🏢 Fort Canning Park – History and nature escape

🕌 Masjid Malabar – Beautiful blue mosque nearby

🏬 City Square Mall – Modern shopping experience just a short walk away

🌍 Fun Facts About Little India

✨ Conclusion: A Microcosm of India in Singapore

Little India offers an unforgettable journey into Indian culture, right in the heart of Singapore. With its bustling markets, flavorful food, spiritual temples, and lively streets, the district is more than a tourist attraction—it’s a sensory adventure full of warmth, history, and celebration.

Whether you're here to shop for spices, taste authentic Indian cuisine, or simply admire the beauty of cultural coexistence, Little India will leave a lasting impression on your heart and camera roll.