One of the most underrated attractions for both locals and tourists — you have to plan out a day just to explore Little India.
What are the best things to do in Little India?
1. Indian Heritage Centre — cultural exhibitions free for locals
2. Tekka Centre — wet market and Indian clothings
3. About You Studio — crafts and tufting workshops
4. Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple — historical Hindu temple
5. Former House of Tan Teng Niah — colourful houses as popular photo spot for tourists
6. Little India Arcade — antiques and souvenirs to bring home
7. Komala Vilas — hawker centre with Indian delicacies
8. Paintblush — sip and paint studio
9. Abdul Gafoor Mosque — a unique mosque for Tamil Muslim and Baweanese communities
10. Mustafa Centre — popular cheap department store that opens 24 hours
1. Indian Heritage Centre
Discover the rich cultural heritage of Singapore’s Indian community with free exhibits for locals showcasing history, art, and traditions.
The 4-storey building houses five permanent galleries filled with treasured cultural heritage, including the history, artefact and media coverage. Additionally, the museum hosts seasonal exhibits that vary throughout the year, providing fresh insights and displays related to Indian culture and heritage.
Tourists can book the ticket via this website for $8 per person.
Location: 5 Campbell Ln, Singapore 209924
Opening hours:
Monday: Closed
Tue-Sun: 10am-6pm
2. Tekka Centre
Tekka Centre is a vibrant marketplace offering a wide range of goods, from fresh produce and spices to traditional Indian clothing and accessories.
It’s an ideal place to experience the lively atmosphere of Little India and immerse yourself in the local culture. Be sure to check out the food stalls, which serve authentic Indian dishes like idli, dosa, or chicken biryani that attract streams of visitors each day.
Location: 665 Buffalo Road Zhujiao Centre, Tekka, Market, Singapore 210665
3. About You Studio
About You Studio offers a variety of creative workshops, including rug tufting, handknit bag, plushie making, and other unique handicrafts.
Bring your friends to learn hands-on techniques while making personalised items like rugs, bags, and home decor. These workshops cater to all skill levels, providing a fun and relaxing atmosphere for you to unleash your creativity.
Book via their website beforehand to get your slot! Their tufting workshop is priced at $150 per person for 70cmx70cm rug.
Location: 1 Rochor Canal Rd, #02-39 Sim Lim Square, Singapore 188504
Opening hours: 10am-7.30pm
4. Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple
Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a popular historic Hindu temple, renowned for its ornate carvings and peaceful ambiance, offering a glimpse into local religious practices.
Visitors can admire the stunning architecture, while learning about the spiritual significance of the temple. Admission to temple is free, with additional charges for their offerings, which you can learn more about on their website.
Location: 397 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218123
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 5.30am-12pm, 5.30-9pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: 5.30am-12pm, 5.30-9pm
5. Former House of Tan Teng Niah
Time for the grams. Make a stop at this vibrant photo spot at Former House of Tan Teng Niah, that is popular amongst tourists.
Known for its brilliant colours, this heritage house stands as one of the most photographed landmarks in Little India. Built in the late 19th century, it reflects the area’s rich history and architectural influences.
Location: 37 Kerbau Rd, Singapore 219168
6. Little India Arcade
For unique craftsmanship, antiques, and souvenirs, go to Little India Arcade — a bustling shopping complex filled with Indian goods, including traditional clothing, jewellery, and spices.
It offers a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of cultural treasures, henna artists store, and bangle shop.
Location: 48 Serangoon Rd, #02-07, Singapore 217959
Opening hours: 9am-10pm
7. Komala Vilas
This iconic vegetarian restaurant is famous for serving delicious South Indian cuisine, especially its signature thali and dosa dishes. A long-time favourite among locals and tourists, it offers an authentic taste of traditional Indian meals.
Recommended dishes include: Idli, Poori, Ghee Dosai, and Rice with Fish Curry.
Location: 76-78 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 217981
Opening hours: 7am-10.30pm
8. Paintblush
Paintblush offers a relaxing and fun sip-and-paint experience where you can enjoy wine while creating your own artwork. Guided by professional artists, participants are encouraged to explore their creativity in a friendly atmosphere.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced painter, the sessions provide all necessary materials to create unique pieces to take home. The experience is priced from $32 per person and you can book your slot here.
Location: 73 Dunlop St, #02-00, Singapore 209401
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 1-11pm
Sat-Sun: 11am-10pm
9. Abdul Gafoor Mosque
Located in the vibrant Little India district, Abdul Gafoor Mosque is one of Singapore’s most historically significant mosques. Built in 1859 and rebuilt in 1907, it was established to serve the Tamil Muslim and Baweanese communities.
In addition to its historical and cultural significance, it is also a must-see spot, especially for tourists, as it is one of the rare structures in Singapore designed with Indo-Saracenic elements.
Location: 41 Dunlop St, Singapore 209369
Opening hours: 5.30-7am, 12-9pm
10. Mustafa Centre
Looking for an affordable shopping centre here? Go to the Mustafa Centre.
Open 24 hours a day, Mustafa Centre is a sprawling department store known for its wide selection of goods, from electronics to groceries. It’s a one-stop shop for almost anything, with unbeatable prices that attract both locals and tourists.
Location: 145 Syed Alwi Rd, Singapore 207704
Opening hours: 24 hours
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