As I’ve mentioned in other posts, I always recommend joining a guided tour with a local guide, and this is no exception. I joined the Little India – Free Walking Tour with Indie Singapore Tours and highly recommend it. I learnt so much about Little India in Singapore! Even after living here, I’m always discovering something new!
Photo 1: One of the flower stalls along Buffalo Road. These flowers are used, for example, in altars or religious celebrations.
Photo 2: One of the many murals in Little India
If you don’t have the opportunity to join a guided tour, you can still explore Little India independently using this map. It features the area’s main attractions, as well as two walking routes: a shorter 2-hour options and a longer, 4-hour route.
Sri Veerakaliamman Temple
Located in the heart of Little India, this Hindu temple is dedicated to Kali, the powerful goddess of destruction and the destroyer of evil. It was built by some of the first Indian immigrants to settle here, many of whom worked as labourers or traders.
During the British colonial period, this part of the city was designated for the Indian community, and the temple quickly became an important spiritual and cultural meeting place.
Photo 3: Sri Veerakaliamman Temple seen from the outside
Photo 4: Sri Veerakaliamman Temple
Photo 5: Sri Veerakaliamman Temple
You can check the exact location here. Please remember to remove your shoes before entering, and to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Saris and shawls are also provided at the entrance if needed.
Photo 6: Sri Veerakaliamman Temple
Tan Teng Niah House
Built in 1900, this house is renowned for being the last surviving traditional Chinese villa in Little India.
Before the neighbourhood become known as Little India, the area was home to thriving Chinese businesses including cattle trading and rattan goods. Tan Teng Niah, the owner, ran several sweet factories on Serangoon Road that used sugarcane as their main ingredient.
Today, Tan Teng Niah house is famous for its bright, colourful façade, making it one of Singapore’s most Instagrammable spots.
Photo 7: Tan Teng Niah House, the last Chinese house in Little India
Photo 8: Front of Tan Teng Niah House
Photo 9: Side view of Tan Teng Niah House
You can learn more about the house’s history and exact location here.
Tekka Centre
There are plenty of small grocery shops along Buffalo Road, but Little India is also home to the lively Tekka Centre market. In the basement, you’ll find stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fish and meat. On the ground floor there’s a food court offering a variety of dishes, but one you really shouldn’t miss is the famous Biryani, a delicious spiced rice dish that can be very spicy depending on the stall! 🌶️
Upstairs, you’ll find a wide variety of stalls selling traditional Indian clothing and tailors who can alter or make clothes to measure. There are also antique shops offering unique and traditional Singaporean pieces.
Photo 10: Fish stalls at Tekka Centre
Photo 11: Antique shop on the 2nd floor of Tekka Centre
The market is a vibrant, multicultural space and is well worth a visit if you want to immerse yourself in Singapore’s Indian culture.
And, if you’re feeling brave, pick a biryani stall and give it a try!🌶️
Photo 12: Chicken Biryani from the Tekka Centre food court
Indian Heritage Centre
The Indian Heritage Centre is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Singapore’s Indian community. Keep an eye on their programme as they often host cultural events such as outdoor traditional dance performances, temporary exhibitions, and free entry days.
I must confess I haven’t yet visited the museum itself, but I have attended many events, and it’s definitely one to consider, especially if you need a break from the heat and fancy some air-conditioning while exploring Little India 😅.
Check the official website for opening times and details of current exhibitions.
Murals in Little India in Singapore
As you wander around Little India, keeps your eyes open for the colourful murals scattered around the neighbourhood. You won’t want to miss them 😊.
Photo 13: Mural in Little India
Photo 14: Mural in Little India
Photo 15: Mural in Little India
Komala vilas – a vegetarian restaurant located right in the heart of Little India on Serangoon Road. You’ll spot it easily thanks to the long queues outside. If you don’t mind waiting, the food is excellent (and yes, also spicy).
Photos 16 and 17: Vegetarian dishes from Komala Vilas restaurant
The Banana Leaf Apolo – a large, bustling restaurant with plenty of communal tables. It’s usually easy to get a seat unless it’s the weekend. I’ve eaten here several times, and the food has always been fantastic. If you’re not sure what to order, just ask the waiters for recommendations of their most popular dishes.
👉 Note: In Indian culture, it’s common to eat with your hands so don’t be surprised if you see people doing so! Cutlery is also available for those who want it.
I hope these tips help you explore Little India in Singapore!
Don’t forget to also check out my posts about the other cultural neighbourhoods:
And here are some more posts about Singapore:
