A buzzing ethnic district
Little India is a buzzing historic area that shows off the best of Singapore’s Indian community, from vibrant culture to incredible shopping.
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Little India is a buzzing historic area that shows off the best of Singapore’s Indian community, from vibrant culture to incredible shopping.
Pick up a bargain or feast on great food in the streets and alleys of historic Little India.
The Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, located in the heart of Little India, is dedicated to Kali, a protector goddess and destroyer of evil
Hinduism in Singapore can be traced as far back as the 7th century, when Singapore was named Temasek, and a prominent trading post of the Srivijayan empire.
You may not know that Little India once had a racecourse, cattle herders and brick kilns.
But while these places and people are gone, time stands still in pockets of this historic district.
Olden-day trades sit next to newer businesses: flower-garland vendors, modern eateries, boutique hotels, as well as arts groups.
In the 1840s, Europeans lived here mainly for the racecourse, where they met and mingled.
When cattle trading took root, it became a mostly Indian trade as traders hired Indian migrant workers. Certain goods and services took off, and mosques and Hindu temples were built.
Little India today is one of Singapore’s most vibrant districts. As you walk down Serangoon Road and neighbouring streets, explore their mix of Hindu and Chinese temples, mosques and churches.
Fill your tummy with South Indian vegetarian food, North Indian tandoori dishes and local fare like roti prata (round pancakes) and teh tarik (pulled tea in Malay). Try to spot the brewers ‘pull’ the hot milk tea—it’s amazing showmanship.
Don’t forget to shop. The 24-hour shopping mall Mustafa Centre offers everything from electronics to groceries, or take your pick from open-air Tekka Centre, goldsmith shops and sari stores.
With its close proximity to the city and a bohemian vibe, many artists also call Little India home.
Do visit during Deepavali (usually October or November) and Pongal (mid-January)—the joyous celebrations are wonderful to observe.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples, is a distinctive landmark in the heart of Little India.
Tekka Centre is Singapore’s largest indoor ‘wet’ market, selling an incredible array of produce and rare ingredients.
Along Race Course Road, Banana Leaf Apolo is popular for South Indian food. Try the famous local delicacy, fish head curry.
The 24-hour Mustafa Centre is a shopping institution, stocking some 300,000 items and offering services like visa processing.
Jothi Store & Flower Shop is always bustling, with five floors of ethnic products, from jasmine garlands to Indian cosmetics.
At Little India Arcade, pick up knick-knacks, costume jewellery and souvenirs, such as Indian sweets from Moghul Sweet Shop.
Drop by one of these centres in downtown Singapore to get more information about Singapore, purchase tickets to attractions and tours or pick up a souvenir. Find out more
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