The colourful sights on Singapore’s Little India.
You will be greeted by the strong, heady scent of spices and jasmine garlands, followed by the treasure trove of silverware, brassware, wood carvings and colourful silk saris, dazzling to behold.
Pick up a walking guide and start your exploration of this colourful ethnic quarter.
The first Indian settlers in Singapore arrived with Sir Stamford Raffles as assistants and soldiers back in 1819. In the late 19th century, many more Indian immigrants arrived to find work, be it as labourers to build roads or to take up key positions in the civil service.
Today, Little India is the focal point of Singapore’s Indian community. Its spice-scented streets beckon you to a cornucopia of ethnic jewellery, jasmine garlands and silk saris.
From the large Tekka Centre and Little India Arcade to the small provision shops, Little India is packed with interesting things to discover.
The Indian temple at Little India
During Deepavali (usually between Oct/Nov), the Indian Festival of Lights, Little India is transformed into a fairyland of gaily decorated, brightly lit streets bustling with shoppers. Witness also the faith of devotees during the colourful and ritualistic Thaipusam in Jan/Feb each year.
Colourful temples co-exist side by side with churches and mosques, parrot fortune tellers stationed by the five-foot way and tantalising scents of spices drifting out from restaurants. Don’t leave Little India without a temporary Henna tattoo or try “Teh Tarik”, a hand pulled cup of tea.
Go on a walking trail at Little India for a unique cultural treat…
Dhobis, Saris & a Spot of Curry
This walking tour is conducted by Journeys Pte Ltd
Every Wednesday, 9.30am- 12noon
Meeting place: Little India MRT Outside Exit E (Buffalo Road)
Price: $35 (Adults), $15 (Children 12 years & below)
For more details, visit https://www.singaporewalks.com or call (65) 6325 1631.
Desire Paths
Little India audio tour
Tuesdays to Saturdays, 10.00 am – 4.30 pm
No. 65 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219188
Price: $15
For details, visit https://www.spell7.net/desirepaths/ or call (65) 6392 1772
Getting There
Take the north east line to Little India station (NE7) or take SBS Transit bus number 65 from Orchard Road, alight at Tekka Market along Serangoon Road.
Tips to enjoy your walk around Little India:
- Dress modestly, especially if you’re planning to enter a place of worship.
- The best day to visit is during weekdays, and in the morning when the day is cooler.
- Carry an umbrella and bottles of water and/or juices (Especially when you have kids).
- Allow for half a day to thoroughly enjoy the Little India experience.
For the complete list of Family oriented places you can visit in Singapore, click here!
