Tan Teng Niah Singapore: Colourful Heritage House in Little India – Complete Visitor Guide

Tan Teng Niah Singapore is a boutique hotel located in the centre of Singapore. This is a colourful villa brightly restored Chinese villa built in 1900 and one of the last remaining Chinese homes in Little India. The building was originally built as a home close to the sugar mills that he possessed, and it is the only Chinese-style construction with influences of the locals.

As of 2026, Tan Teng Niah remains one of the most photographed cultural landmarks in Singapore. The house is now a brilliant restoration with bright blues, yellows, reds, and greens, and it is now one of the most recognisable heritage buildings in Singapore.

Why Tan Teng Niah Is Special:

• The Chinese-style villas in Little India are few, and this is one of the last villas of the Chinese style.
• The example of the multicultural taste of Singapore is quite striking.
• A paradise of travellers, photographers, and history lovers.
• Free and open all day long.

Fun Fact: The villa is an eight-room construction that was given as a present to the wife of Tan Teng Niah, and it was one of the oldest structures that remained as a representation of Chinese domestic life even beyond Chinatown.

Iconic Colourful Façade: The most attractive feature is the colourful exterior. Every panel and window is painted in various vivid colours, making the house a masterpiece.

Chinese & Southern Asian Architectural Elements

The structure blends:

• Southern Chinese elements
• Malay-inspired carved doors
• Shuttered windows that were European.
• Effects of the Indian neighbourhood.

Historical Features & Intricate Details

Look out for:

• Hand-carved floral motifs
• Bamboo-tiled roof
• Ornamental eaves
• A natural ventilation courtyard.

Best Photography Spots at Tan Teng Niah: The house is one of the most popular destinations among travellers, influencers, and photographers.

Cultural Surroundings in Little India: The villa is in the heart of Little India, and one can walk to the markets, restaurants, temples and art lanes, which is the best place to spend half a day on a walking tour.

• Location: 37 Kerbau road, little India, Singapore.
• Opening Hours: 24 hours Open (outside access only)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Suggested Duration: 20-40 minutes
• Top Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon because of soft lighting.

Nearby Attractions:

• Little India Arcade
• Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple.
• Tekka Centre
• Indian Heritage Centre
• Kampong Glam

Day Tip: A visit to Little India also includes a cultural walking tour, which will be a rich experience.

Capture Stunning Photos: Its symmetrical patterns, as well as the bright colours, make it an ideal background.

Learn About the House’s History: Experience the architectural seamlessness that has rendered this house unique.

Explore Little India on Foot: You must see the markets of Serangoon Road after your visit.

Shop for Cultural Souvenirs: Take perfumes, traditional attire, spices and handicrafts.

Visit Famous Temples Nearby: The close ones are the Sri Veeramakaliemman and the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temples.

No tickets are required. The house is open to the visit that is why it is a good inclusion in any Singapore itinerary.

Tan Teng Niah Timings & Best Time for Photography:

• Accessible: 24/7
• Photography: 8 AM - 10 AM or 4 PM - 6 PM
• Crowd Levels: Minimal on weekdays.

The best experience is during festivals, like Deepavali or Pongal, in Visit Little India.

• By MRT: Little India MRT Station - on foot in 3 minutes.
• By Bus: Buses along Serangoon Road: 23, 64, 65, 66, 131, 139, 147
• By Taxi/Grab: Direct search Tan Teng Niah.
• Walking Around Little India: Little India has many attractions that are near to one another, and thus, it is perfect to go on an exploration walk.

• Go there early so you can have better pictures.
• There is a value in the heritage of the area, which should be respected.
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Visit local markets after visiting.
• Food trail: Please match the experience with a food trail.

Best Places to Eat Near Tan Teng Niah

• Tekka Centre
• Komala Vilas
• Azmi Chapati
• The Banana Leaf Apolo

What to Shop for in Little India

• Spices
• Indian clothing
• Perfume oils
• Jewellery
• Handicrafts

Little India is among the cultural centres of Singapore, where every single place has a story.

• Morning: Start by taking photos in Tan Teng Niah.
• Midday: Visit Little India Arcade.
• Afternoon: Indian Heritage Centre.
• Evening: Tekka Centre Dinner + a walk along Serangoon Road.

Tan Teng Niah, Singapore, is one of the most colourful heritage landmarks in Little India. It is free, easy to explore, and perfect for photos. The architecture tells a multicultural story of old Singapore. Whether you’re a photographer searching for the most Instagrammable spot in Little India, a history lover fascinated by Singapore’s early Chinese community, or simply someone who enjoys discovering unique free attractions, this iconic heritage house offers something meaningful for everyone. Planning a trip? Book Singapore tour packages from Pickyourtrail for a smooth holiday.