Little India Singapore Travel Guide 2025: Top Attractions, Restaurants & Culture

If you’re searching for the most vibrant cultural experience, Little India Singapore stands out as an unmissable destination. Located near the east bank of the Singapore River, this historic neighbourhood brings together centuries-old Indian traditions, iconic temples, bustling markets, and aromatic eateries, all set within the modern landscape of Singapore. Known for its colourful streets and deep spiritual significance, especially during festivals like Deepavali, Little India is one of the top places to visit in Singapore for heritage lovers, photographers, and food explorers alike. This guide covers the best things to do, where to go, and what makes Little India a must-visit spot in Singapore’s cultural circuit.

Key Takeaways

• How to Get There: Little India is well-connected by the Purple MRT Line (Little India Station), making it easily accessible from most parts of Singapore. Many top attractions are just a short walk away.
• What to Budget: Expect to spend around SGD 30–50 per person on delicious local food, snacks, and souvenirs. Most temples are free to enter, so you can explore the spiritual side without extra costs.
• Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples, dress modestly, remove your shoes, and always ask before taking photos to respect local customs.
• Best Time to Visit: For a truly immersive experience, plan your trip around major festivals like Deepavali or Thaipusam, when the streets come alive with colours, lights, and traditional celebrations.
• Must-Try Food: Don’t miss out on authentic South Indian vegetarian dishes and the iconic Singaporean-style fish head curry—a local favourite that blends Indian and Chinese influences.
• Recommended Duration: Set aside at least half a day to explore the area, but a full day is ideal if you want to experience the food, heritage sites, and shopping at a relaxed pace.

About Little India 

Little India is a prominent ethnic area in Singapore, located on the Singapore River’s eastern coast. It is where the Indian diaspora in Singapore lives. It started as a cattle trading ground for the Europeans. Thus, numerous Indian workers moved in here. It later developed into a commercial centre. Over the past few years, younger residents and artists have settled here, and it has made Little India an urbanised and trendy district. Indian culture and traditions can be enjoyed through festivals, and one of which is Deepavali, the Festival of Lights.

How to Reach Little India, Singapore

Little India in Singapore is very well-connected by public transport, and can be reached easily without trouble from most areas in the city. Here are the best ways to reach: 

• By MRT: The Little India MRT Station (NE7 / DT12) is accessible from both the North East Line (NEL) and the Downtown Line.
• By Bus: Frequent buses are 23, 48, 56, 57, 64, 65, 67, 131, 139, 147, 166, 170 and 857.
• By Car: Take the major roads like Serangoon Road, Bukit Timah Road and Selegie Road while going by car or booking a taxi.

Religious Places to Visit in Little India Singapore

There are ample religious places to visit in Little India, Singapore, that bring you closer to Indian tradition and culture. Here are some of the best attractions: 

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Colorful facade of Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in Little India, Singapore, with intricate sculptures and a bustling crowd at the entrance.

Soak in the vibrant spiritual atmosphere of Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, a powerful historical and cultural landmark in Singapore’s Little India. This temple was constructed in 1855 by the Tamil labourers and is dedicated to Goddess Kali and Parvati. It exhibits breathtaking traditional structure and colourful rituals, particularly during the festivals such as Pongal. 

• Location: 141 Serangoon Rd, Singapore
• Timings: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM (Monday to Sunday)
  

Abdul Gafoor Mosque

Abdul Gafoor Mosque in Singapore showcasing Saracenic and South Indian architectural styles with tall minarets and ornate detailing.

Abdul Gafoor mosque is a beautiful architectural gem that exhibits Saracenic and South Indian influences. The intricate details and bright colours make it a place for peaceful worship. It was a historical building for the South Indian Muslim society, and now it is a beautiful example of their unforgettable faith and culture.

• Location: 41 Dunlop Street, Singapore
• Timings: 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM (Monday to Sunday)
  

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple in Little India, Singapore, featuring a tall gopuram with vivid carvings and Hindu deities.

The beautiful Dravidian-style Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It has a tall gopuram, highly decorated by carved figures, an example of exquisite art. Having its origin dating back to the 19th century, it is an important spiritual and cultural hub to the Hindu community and has several centuries of customs.

• Location: 397 Serangoon Rd, Singapore
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  

Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple

Front view of Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple in Singapore, with Thai architectural elements and a large golden Buddha statue inside.

If you are looking for peace and serenity, the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple is the place. It is home to a 15-meter-tall Buddha statue and bright murals depicting significant Buddhist tales. It is a Thai temple constructed by one of the monks and commonly referred to as The Temple of 1,000 Lights due to the large number of lamps in it. The place serves as a peaceful retreat and offers a rich historical glimpse into Buddhist traditions.

• Location: 366 Race Course Rd, Singapore
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

Cultural Places in Singapore

Interior of the Indian Heritage Centre in Singapore displaying traditional Indian artefacts, textiles, and a life-sized horse sculpture.

Indian Heritage Centre

The Indian Heritage Centre will take you on a captivating tour of the history, culture and contribution to the Indian race in Singapore and Southeast Asia. There are interactive exhibits, historical artefacts, and visitors can get to know how vibrant the legacy of Indian pioneers is.

House of Tan Teng Niah

House of Tan Teng Niah is one of the most notable attractions in Little India, Singapore. It offers a good photographic opportunity with bright colours and Chinese architecture in Little India.

Street Art

As you walk around Little India, you will discover beautiful street art. The murals and colourful paintings of the region depict the old trades, Indian culture and everyday life. Exploring outdoor galleries and capturing Instagram-worthy pictures are the best things to do in Singapore’s Little India. 

Shopping in Little India

Vibrant street market scene in Little India, Singapore, with colorful decorations, bustling crowds, and traditional Indian shops during festive season.

Little India is a wonderful location to buy Indian products in Singapore. Visit the Mustafa Centre, where you can find anything and everything at cheap rates. Go to Little India Arcade to find traditional crafts and lovely jewellery. You can also buy fresh produce and fragrant spices at Tekka Centre.

Cultural Events and Festivals

Festive street arch in Little India, Singapore, lit up with bright lights and decorative figures during Deepavali celebrations.

During the events and festivals, Little India truly comes to life. Deepavali (the Festival of Lights), Pongal (harvest festival) and Thaipusam (a very special pilgrimage) are the must-attend festivals in Little India. These festivals are filled with colours, sounds, and offer a clear view of Indian traditions.

Where to Eat in Little India

Exterior view of The Banana Leaf Apolo restaurant in Little India, Singapore, known for its authentic Indian cuisine and banana leaf meals.

Savour the flavours of India at the Indian restaurants of Singapore in Little India. You could have rich curries, spicy biryanis, crunchy dosas and soft naans. The hawker stalls of Tekka Centre sell cheap and delicious food, whereas the spots at the restaurants of Serangoon Road will delight all appetites. Some of Little India’s greatest restaurants are The Banana Leaf Apolo, Muthu’s Curry, Khansama Tandoori Restaurant, and Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine. 

Checkout: Jain restaurants in Singapore

Practical Tips for Visitors

• The best months to go to Little India are during the dry season, which is February to April. It is less rainy, the weather is pleasant, and the humidity is lower.
• When visiting temples, you must cover your shoulders and knees. Take off your footwear when going into the temple compound.
• Ask (consent) before you take a photograph of people, particularly at religious events.
• It is possible to bargain in small shops and conventional markets, but you should negotiate respectfully.
• Most of the small traders and street stores use cash as their payment mode, thus always carry some Singapore dollars.

Final Thoughts

Interesting right! The charm of Little India Singapore is not just added by its attractions but also by its authentic atmosphere. Whether it is spiritual adventures or culinary adventures, this district offers a lot of thrilling things to do. Want to visit Little India with no hustle? Plan your next trip with Pickyourtrai by checking out the best Singapore tour packages for great deals. 

FAQs

Q: Is Little India safe for tourists? 

Yes, Little India is quite secure with frequent policing activity and bright streets. 

Q: How much time should I allocate for Little India? 

You will need 4-6 hours to have a complete trip that involves temples, eating and shopping. The rush visits are done in 2-3 hours.

Q: Are the temples open to non-Hindu visitors? 

Yes, all temples in Little India are open to all people of any faith.

Q: What’s the best day to visit? 

The best day to visit Little India is during weekdays when it is less busy and the weekends when the market is livelier.

Q: Can I find vegetarian food easily?

Yes, you can find vegetarian cuisine easily in Little India. There are numerous cafes and food stands with large vegetarian foods, such as Komala Vilas Restaurant, Nalan and Kailash Parbat Singh.

Q: Is bargaining acceptable in Little India? 

Yes, Bargaining is acceptable in Little India markets and small shops. Be respectful and fair when you initiate the negotiation.