A Guide to Little India Singapore + Itinerary

Little India in Singapore feels like stepping into a completely different world. I couldn’t believe Singapore had so many layers beneath the pragmatic, well-known affair with skyscrapers and city vibes.

Singapore Little India is a sensory overload of colours, smells, and sounds packed into a small but vibrant district. They have recently created a heritage trail that takes you around the main sights of Little India on a passionate one- to two-hour walk that you can do without a guide.

From fragrant spice stalls to temples adorned with intricate carvings, the area bursts with life. We’ve explored its corners, savoured its food, and soaked in its culture.

Now, we’re here to share a straightforward guide to make your trip to Little India in Singapore smooth, memorable, and budget-friendly.

Is It Worth Visiting Little India in Singapore?

Absolutely. Little India showcases a cultural side of Singapore that feels authentic and raw. The area tells the story of Indian immigrants who settled here in the 19th century.

It offers insights into Singapore’s multicultural identity while being an affordable experience for travellers. From temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman to budget-friendly Michelin-recommended eateries (strictly authentic Indian cuisine), there’s something to intrigue every curious mind.

What to expect in Little India Singapore?

Everything you can imagine as if you were visiting a city in India. The Singaporean version of India caters for everything from flavours to textiles and heritage from the motherland.

Walking through the streets, we could get the feeling that we weren’t in the tropical paradise in the tiptoe of Southeast Asia but the weather in India itself.

I remember walking into shops, selling fine fabrics, and touching them; the feeling was premium and I rarely felt something so extraordinary.

How to Get to Little India Singapore

Reaching Little India is simple and convenient. The MRT is your best friend while getting around Singapore. Take the Downtown (Blue) Line or North-East (Purple) Line, and hop off at Little India MRT Station.

The station is right onto the district; take the exit to Buffalo Rd to be closer to the Former House of Tan Teng Niah, starting your Little India heritage walking trail. If you’re coming from another part of Singapore, bus routes 65 and 67 also pass through Little India.

If you are staying nearby, we suggest just walking; after all, Singapore is pedestrian-friendly, and you can find some great spots along the way. We walked from Little India to Arab Street without problem, finding great spots all for ourselves.

Best Time to Visit Little India Singapore

The best time to visit Little India depends on how you prefer to experience it. Mornings are quieter and perfect for wandering streets and visiting temples without crowds. The heat is also less intense, making a walking tour more enjoyable.

Evenings bring a completely different vibe with bustling markets and the aroma of fresh street food. Plan your visit during Deepavali (Diwali) or Pongal for an extra-special experience.

The streets light up with decorations, and the festive energy is unmatched. We walked both morning and evening, and both times, we had pleasant walks around.

Things to Do in Little India Singapore

Explore the Temples

Little India is home to some of the most remarkable temples in Singapore. Start with Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Kali. The colourful gopuram (tower) at the entrance is breathtaking.

Another must-visit is the Temple of a Thousand Lights (Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple), which features a giant Buddha statue surrounded by twinkling lights. Not only temples in Little India but also Mosque, write down Masjid Abdul Gafoor.

Dive Into Indian Cuisine

You can’t visit Little India without indulging in its food. While here, you must try banana leaf rice and roti prata at The Banana Leaf Apolo (Very popular among locals, housed beneath the Little India Arcade).

There are also hawker stalls in Little India if you are on a budget or want to get deeper into traditional dishes. Try the affordable plates of biryani and masala dosa.

Hunt for Bargains at Mustafa Centre

When we visited the Mustafa Centre, it was so busy that it was almost impossible to get in. It is a great “Selfridges” in the heart of Little India and a good place to rest after a long walk.

We had a quick lunch under the colonnade—nothing special, to be honest, so I don’t feel like recommending it. However, the Mustafa Centre is perfect for budget shoppers. Open 24/7, it sells everything from spices to electronics.

Walking along Serangoon Road, we stumbled upon budget-friendly stores selling textiles and knick-knacks. Little India Arcade is another gem for traditional Indian goods and souvenirs.

Little India Singapore Artworks

Like the rest of the city, the walls of heritage houses or significant places are vivid in the imagination with great murals. The colourful murals scattered around Little India are Instagram gold.

That’s why we define Little India as one of the most instagrammable areas of Singapore.

The Little India Art Walk showcases works from local and international artists, reflecting the neighbourhood’s cultural roots. One mural we loved shows a mix of Indian traditions intertwined with Singaporean elements.

Walk or Cycle the Heritage Trail

Follow a Guided walking tour to uncover the history of Little India. Key spots include Serangoon Road, which is lined with shophouses, and Tan Teng Niah’s House, the last surviving Chinese villa in the area. Its vivid rainbow façade is unforgettable.

Also, consider a cycling tour of Little India so you can condense more sights in a day exploring at fast peace, with a local guide helping to enjoy the cultural heritage.

Feast at Tekka Centre

Tekka Centre is a melting pot of flavours, combining classic Singaporean multicultural dishes with robust Indian spices. We tried biryani, prata, and a refreshing lime juice. It’s affordable and perfect for those looking to sample authentic dishes without breaking the bank.

Visit the Indian Heritage Centre

The Indian Heritage Centre showcases artefacts, stories, and interactive exhibits celebrating Singapore’s Indian community. It’s compact, engaging, and air-conditioned—a bonus after walking the sunny streets.

Tickets cost only $GD8 (£5 | €6 | $6.3), and you can book in advance here.

Admire Tan Teng Niah’s House

This colourful villa, with its unique mix of European and Chinese architectural styles, is a popular spot to snap photos, especially on the side. The colourful house, murals and windows are the perfect backdrop.

We couldn’t resist snapping portraits here, and its history as the last Chinese villa in Little India added a layer of intrigue. You can follow a heritage walking tour for just £50 (€60 | $63), booking it here, with an enthusiastic guide, samples and the best of Tan Teng House.

Walk around the market

Most of the tourists tend to get a quick shot of Tan Ten House and move to the next sights. However, you are in the centre of Little India, not far away from the bustling market.

It is the right time to slow down, get a drink and watch people passing by. There are cute shops, traditional shophouses, and all the flavours of India just a few miles away from the motherland.

Another market you should go to is Campbell Ln, squeezed between Amolo’s Food Village and the Indian Heritage Centre. We loved the flower shops mixed with the phone and repair centres. It’s hilarious, isn’t it? Such Indian vibes.

Get a coffee at Generation Coffee Roaster

If you haven’t yet your morning caffeine fix, we suggest checking out Generation Coffee. This Roastery in Tekka market is a pioneer of good quality in Little India.

A small stall in one of the busiest Hawker centres in Singapore, offering great coffee bland and good texture.

Relax at Olibier Rooftop Bar

After all the walking, we relaxed with a beer at Olibier Rooftop Bar. It’s one of Singapore’s hidden gems, tucked near Bugis Street. The relaxed vibe here is a welcome contrast to Little India’s lively streets.

Visit The Gem Museum

This hidden treasure showcases the cultural significance of gems in Indian history. It’s a niche experience, much like the gem museum we visited in Sri Lanka, but equally fascinating.

Little India Singapore Walking Guide – Little India Itinerary

If you’re planning to walk through the colourful Little India, here’s a simple route:

• Start at Little India MRT Station.
• Head to Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple for its stunning façade.
• Walk to Tan Teng Niah’s House for photos and history.
• Stop at the Indian Heritage Centre to cool off and explore its exhibits.
• Visit Tekka Centre for a lunch break.
• Shop at Mustafa Centre or along Serangoon Road.
• End your day with a drink at Olibier Rooftop Bar near Bugis St.

If you’re up for more walking, venture toward the Indian Heritage Centre to learn about the history and contributions of the Indian community in Singapore.

The museum is compact but packed with engaging exhibits. We suggest you check out this tour of Little India with a passionate local guide.

Practical Tips for Exploring Little India

• Stay hydrated – Singapore’s heat can be intense. Carry a reusable water bottle.
• Dress modestly – If you’re planning to visit temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Carry cash – Some small stalls and eateries accept only cash.
• Be ready for sensory overload – Little India is loud, colourful, and fragrant. It’s all part of the experience.
• Explore at your own pace – Don’t rush. Take time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavours.

Personal Experience in Little India

Farewell from Singapore, Little India

Little India Singapore isn’t just a district; it’s an experience. From walking trails that whisper history to the bold flavours of Tekka Centre, every corner has something to offer.

For us, the heritage, food, and vibrant culture made it an essential part of our journey. If you want to see a side of Singapore that’s raw and authentic, don’t miss Little India.

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