Singapore’s Little India is one of its most unique neighbourhoods, a home and favourite hangout of the South Indian community showcasing a lesser-seen side of Singapore. In this Little India Heritage Tour guide, we’ll show you the highlights of this vibrant cultural district and how best to explore and learn about its rich history on your next trip to Singapore. From colourful architecture to vibrant markets, there’s plenty for visitors to uncover in Little India.
Why Little India Is a Must-Visit Cultural Tour in Singapore
Little India is the centre of the South Asian community in Singapore, with a bevy of shops, restaurants and businesses dedicated to the Indians and other adjacent communities found here. It was only called Little India in the 1980s when it was marketed as a tourism spot – the original Indian community from history was located much closer to the Singapore River – but today’s Little India is a key heritage space and favourite tourist destination to immerse in Singapore’s colourful multicultural landscape.
Little India Heritage Walking Route (Step-by-Step Guide)
Little India is centered around the junction of Serangoon Road and Bukit Timah Road, with most of its tourist attractions found in the areas near Little India MRT Station and Jalan Besar MRT Station.This suggested walking route can take 1-2 hours and offers a little bit of history, shopping, culture and food for an overview of Little India.
Stop 1: Little India MRT & Tekka Market
Despite the many tall buildings around the area, the Little India area was once very swampy and the hub of early cattle traders, a history that is reflected in the road names of this area like Buffalo Road and Kerbau (Malay for cow) Road.
Starting from Little India MRT Station, take a walk towards the bustling Tekka Market and Food Centre. This neighbourhood centre is the heart of the district, with a busy wet market and hawker centre on the first level, and sundries and Indian clothing on the second level. Indulge in an Indian meal of briyani, thosai or roti prata while you’re here.
Stop 2: Tan Teng Niah House
Exit the market and cross Buffalo Road to one of the most photographed buildings in Singapore. The former Tan Teng Niah House stands out with its rainbow-coloured walls and is the representation of one of the last Chinese-style bungalows in this area, once owned by a Chinese businessman who had sugar-related factories and plantations in the area.
The building is privately owned and cannot be entered, but feel free to snap a shot with its colourful walls for keepsakes.
Stop 3: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
At the junction of Serangoon Road and Belilios Road is the ornate Sri Veeramakaliaman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest South Indian Hindu temples. Dedicated to Kali, the Destroyer of Evil, this temple was the centre of the early Indian community, many of whom were workers at the surrounding lime kilns or working in the cattle industry.
The temple is open to worshippers and visitors in the mornings and evenings. Shoes must be removed before entering and visitors should be dressed modestly.
Stop 4: Campbell Lane & Little India Heritage Centre
Across Serangoon Road is the pedestrianised Campbell Lane, the place to visit during major Indian festivals where this narrow lane will be lined with shops selling festive goodies, decorative ware and delicious snacks.
Along Campbell Lane looms the Indian Heritage Centre, a starkly modern building that stands out amidst the surrounding heritage shophouses with its metallic look and sleek lines. This five-storey museum showcases the journeys of the early Indian and South Asian settlers and how they came to Singapore and the surrounding Southeast Asian region with interactive exhibits.
Best Time to Visit Little India Singapore
The best time to explore Little India in Singapore is in the morning. The market is most vibrant in the morning, and Hindu temples typically close to the public from midday till the evening prayer time. Most shops and other restaurants tend to be open from 11am onwards, though the hawker food stalls in Tekka Market are busiest during breakfast and lunch.
Little India is a favourite hangout for the South Asian community in Singapore, many of whom are blue collar workers who get weekend breaks, so expect the district to be quite crowded on Saturdays and Sundays.
Little India is at its most festive during major Indian festivals: Pongal or the Spring Harvest Festival (around January) and the Festival of Lights aka Deepavali (typically in October or November). The main Serangoon Road that cuts through the district will feature bright lights and decorations, and mini markets are set up around the district, usually along Campbell Lane and Birch Road.
Tips for Enjoying Your Little India Cultural Tour
Drink lots of water to replenish as Singapore gets very hot and humid. Bring an umbrella for additional shade and protection from sudden tropical downpours.
Cash is essential especially when buying from smaller shops and the hawker centres that don’t accept credit card – there are ATMs at Little India MRT station, Tekka Market, Tekka Place and Little India Shopping Arcade.
Respect temple etiquette by covering your shoulders and knees before entering – garments are provided at the door if needed. You will also need to remove headwear, and your shoes for Hindu temples.
Little India is close to the historic Bras Basah arts and culture district, as well as the Malay heritage area Kampong Gelam, so consider adding those spots to your tour if you want to maximise your visit to Singapore.
Why Include Little India in Your Singapore Cultural Tour
Locals and visitors alike love that Little India showcases a less polished and more authentic side of Singapore. Watch Singaporeans go about their daily lives and admire the heritage and cultural landmarks that have shaped the country into what it is today. A Little India heritage tour shows you more of one of the major ethnic groups found in Singapore.
Take a self-guided tour around Little India if you prefer flexibility in your exploration, but the district’s best stories are not always so evident. Consider booking one of our experienced travel and tour agency in singapore to share with you the hidden sights of Little India – contact us to learn more about our guided Little India cultural tours.
