Little India Travel Guide

From cultural attractions and natural adventures to food and shopping, this guide covers all aspects of Little India in Singapore.


Introduction to Little India

As the name suggests, Little India is a vibrant neighborhood in Singapore that is bustling with cultural experiences and activities. The area is famous for its rich heritage and architecture, colorful streets, traditional eateries, and decorative shops that offer a glimpse into Indian culture in Singapore.

Little India is a must-visit destination in Singapore, offering visitors a chance to experience Indian culture while also providing a unique contrast to the modern skyscrapers and shopping centers in the rest of the city.

List of Places to Visit in Little India

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Indian Heritage Center

The Indian Heritage Center is a museum dedicated to showcasing the rich history, culture, and traditions of Indian communities in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The museum features exhibitions, workshops, and events that highlight various aspects of Indian heritage, including textiles, cuisine, art, and dance.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, dedicated to the goddess Kali. The vibrant and colorful architectural design of the temple is a sight to behold and an excellent place to gain insights into Hinduism and Indian culture.

Masjid Abdul Gaffoor

Masjid Abdul Gaffoor is one of the oldest mosques in Singapore, built-in 1907 and considered a significant cultural landmark in the Little India. The mosque is renowned for its stunning blend of Indian, Islamic, and European architectural styles.

Natural Attractions of Little India: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Shree Lakshminarayan Temple

Shree Lakshminarayan Temple is a beautiful temple located near the Rochor River. The temple is known for its intricate carvings and unique sculptures that offer a glimpse into Indian mythology.

Tekka Market

Tekka Market is a bustling, colorful market offering a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and other goods unique to Indian culture. The market also has numerous street vendors selling delicious and authentic Indian snacks, making it the perfect place to indulge in local cuisine.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Little India

The best way to explore Little India is on foot to soak in the sights and sounds. There are not many hiking or biking routes available within Little India itself, but nearby Fort Canning Park and the Southern Ridges offer visitors plenty of scenic walking and cycling paths to explore.

Best Things to Do in Little India: Activities and Tours

Little India Walking Tour

A guided walking tour of Little India is a great way to dive deeper into the culture, history, and local stories of the community. There are many tour operators available, offering visitors a chance to see the hidden gems of Little India through the eyes of a local.

Cultural Performances

Cultural performances such as traditional Indian dance performances or music shows are often held in public spaces within Little India. These performances are a fantastic way to immerse oneself in the entertainment and artistic aspects of Indian culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Little India

Day 1: Indian Heritage Center, Masjid Abdul Gaffoor, Tekka Market
Day 2: Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Mustafa Center
Day 3: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Shree Lakshminarayan Temple, Albert Center
Day 4: Artisans’ Garden (Neem Tree Garden), Campbell Lane Day 5: Explore Fortune Center Food Court and Eat Street
Day 6: Visit Building of Former House of Tan Teng Niah, Little India Arcade, and The Verge
Day 7: Fort Canning Park and Southern Ridges Hiking Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Little India

Must-Try Dishes

Biriyani

Biriyani is an Indian rice dish with meat or vegetables and a unique blend of spices. Little India is home to several restaurants offering the best Biriyani in Singapore.

Masala Dosa

Masala Dosa is a popular South Indian snack made of rice and lentil batter, stuffed with spiced potatoes and served with coconut chutney.

Local Beverages

Chai

Chai is a hot beverage made of tea leaves, milk, and spices such as ginger or cardamom. It is a staple at many Indian eateries in Little India and a must-try for visitors.

Lassi

Lassi is a traditional yogurt drink that is refreshing and perfect for hot weather. Several Indian restaurants offer delicious flavors of Lassi, often served in tall glasses with ice.

Where to Stay in Little India: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Little India offers several budget-friendly options for accommodation, including a mix of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses such as The Noble Hotel, Sleepy Kiwi, and Beds and Dreams Inn.

What to Buy in Little India: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Little India is a treasure trove of souvenirs and local products. Visitors can find anything from aromatic spices, stylish Indian clothes, and jewelry to handicrafts, silk items, and artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Little India

Little India is a melting pot of cultures, comprising a mix of Indians, Malays, Chinese, and other ethnicities. Visitors should dress conservatively when visiting local places of worship and practice basic etiquette such as removing footwear before entering religious shrines or temples.

Best Time to Visit Little India

Little India is vibrant and full of life all year round. However, the best time to visit is during major Indian festivals such as Deepavali or Thaipusam, where the streets come alive with color, music and dance, and delicious food.

Do’s and Don’ts of Little India

Do:

  • Try the local street food.
  • Respect the local temples and places of worship.
  • Try to learn a few basic phrases in Tamil or Hindi.
  • Haggle at the local markets for the best deals.

Don’t:

  • Wear Revealing Clothing.
  • Litter or smoke in public areas.
  • Touch religious statues or artifacts without permission.
  • Take photographs of locals without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Little India

Little India is a safe area to visit, but visitors should be wary of pickpockets and stay alert when traveling alone at night.

Health in Little India

Visitors should be cautious and avoid tap water as the water quality is not suitable for drinking. Mosquito repellent is recommended to protect against Dengue and Malaria.

Getting to Little India: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Little India

Changi Airport is the main airport in Singapore, located approximately 25 minutes from Little India by car or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Little India

Little India MRT Station is the most convenient way to reach Little India from anywhere in Singapore. Several buses such as the 23, 64, and 65 also stop in the Little India neighborhood.

Other Options

Taxis are readily available in Singapore, and ride-hailing apps such as Grab or Gojek are convenient options for short trips to Little India.

How to Get Around in Little India

Walking is the best way to explore the area, but there are also several public transport options, including buses and MRT trains that connect Little India to other parts of Singapore. Visitors can also rent bikes or e-scooters at several rental stations in the region.

Where to Go Next from Little India: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore neighboring areas such as Kampong Glam, Joo Chiat, or Chinatown, each offering a unique cultural experience, food, and landmarks.

Conclusion

Little India is one of Singapore’s must-visit neighborhoods that offer an immersive Indian cultural experience in the heart of the city. From traditional architecture and museums to delectable Indian food and local products, Little India has something for everyone.

Detail of the Sri Veeramakaliamman temple Detail of the Sri Veeramakaliamman temple Mustafa Centre Mustafa Centre Barbershop sign in Tamil Barbershop sign in Tamil