7 Best Things to Do in Little India Singapore
What is Little India Singapore Most Famous For?
Many of the best things to do in Little India Singapore are within walking distance from one another, meaning that you can explore this neighborhood within a day or two. Located east of the Singapore River, it’s one of the smallest districts in Singapore so walking and cycling are the best ways of getting around.
You’ll be surrounded by plenty of religious sites, such as Hindu and Buddhist temples, as well as a mosque dating back to the 19th century. In this list of things to do in Little India, we’ve also got you covered on shopping, one of Singapore’s most popular pastimes.
What are the best things to do in Little India Singapore?
1. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
A stunning sanctuary of colorful statues and rich history
Good for: Photo, Budget
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is one of the prettiest and busiest temples in Little India. Located on Serangoon Road, this Hindu temple dates all the way back to the 19th century, with facilities such as a wedding and multipurpose hall.
With hundreds of tiny colorful statues blanketing the exterior temple structure, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is quite a popular photography spot. Inside is just as impressive; expect a large crowd paying their respects on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Entrance is free, but dress respectfully and take your shoes off before stepping inside the temple.
Location: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042
Open: Daily from 5.30 am to noon and from 4 pm to 9 pm
Phone: +65 6295 4538
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
2. House of Tan Teng Niah
A vibrant colonial gem in Little India
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The House of Tan Teng Niah is a colorful 2-story villa dating back to 1900. Located on Kerbau Road, It’s one of the few remaining Chinese structures in Little India that were built during the colonialization of Singapore.
The local community is responsible for the rainbow of colors that the House of Tan Teng Niah is so famous for, as well as its renovation and upkeep. After snapping some photos of the villa, grab yourself a biryani meal in the nearby courtyard for a particularly picturesque al fresco dining.
Location: 37 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219168
House of Tan Teng Niah
3. Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple
A colorful temple dedicated to Krishna
Good for: Budget, Photo
To the untrained eye, Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple might look similar to Sri Veeramakaliamman, just down the road. The exterior features all those intricately designed Hindu relics which cling to the main structure, or Gopuram, and the whole building is just as colorful.
The temple is dedicated to Krishna, one of the incarnations of Vishnu. You’ll also see statues of other Hindu deities, including Mahalakshmi, Murugan, and Anjaneyar. Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple serves the local community with daily Pooja (worship sessions) in the mornings and evenings. Read more
Location: 397 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218123
Open: Daily from 6 am to noon and from 6 pm to 9 pm
Phone: +65 6298 5771
Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple
4. Mustafa Center
A treasure trove of endless shopping possibilities
Good for: Budget, Food, Shoppers
Mustafa Center is a bustling 24-hour shopping mall that offers designer products at low prices. Shopping at this mall is akin to shopping at an indoor market, with narrow aisles jam-packed with all manner of products.
While it might feel a little disorganized, and packed every day, Mustafa Centre holds a unique charm. If you come in search of a specific item you can’t find anywhere else in town, there’s a good chance you’ll discover an entire aisle dedicated to it here. Read more
Location: 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore, 207704
Open: 24/7
Phone: +65 6295 5855
Mustafa Center
5. Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple
The majestic Temple of 1,000 Lights
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple was built in 1927 by a Thai monk, and the Siamese influences are clear to be seen throughout. The main feature of this Buddhist temple is a 15-meter-tall Buddha statue that weighs about 300 tonnes.
The temple is often called the Temple of 1,000 Lights, thanks to the chain of lamps surrounding the statue. Located between the Little India and Farrar Park MRT stations, entrance to Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple is free, but do dress modestly out of respect for the worshippers.
Location: 366 Race Course Road, Singapore 218638
Open: Daily from 8 am to 4.30 pm
Phone: +65 6294 0714
Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple
6. Abdul Gafoor Mosque
An architectural gem blending various influences
Good for: History, Photo, Budget
The Abdul Gafoor Mosque, originally built in 1859, served South Indian Muslim merchants and those who worked at the old race course at Farrer Park. After years of renovations, the mosque has a unique architectural style of Southern Indian, Moorish, and Victorian influences.
A must-see at Abdul Gafoor Mosque is the Arabic-style glass cupola, which is supported by Roman pillars inspired by Roman architecture. Like many religious sites around the world, do dress modestly if you’re planning to visit the mosque.
Location: 41 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209369
Phone: +65 6295 4209
Abdul Gafoor Mosque
7. Leong San See Temple
A beautiful temple adorned with detailed carvings
Good for: Families, Photo
Leong San See Temple was built to honor Guan Yin (also known as Guanyim), the Chinese Goddess of Mercy. The temple is often packed with families praying for filial piety and academic success. The ancestral hall offers free vegetarian dishes during important days in the lunar calendar.
Leong San See Temple’s main structure resembles a Chinese palace, with bright red and gold accents throughout the building. There are also plenty of intricate carvings of mythic beings on its beams and pillars.
Location: 371 Race Course Road, Singapore 218641
Open: Daily from 8 am to 4 pm
Phone: +65 6298 9371
Leong San See Temple
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