Little India
Little India
4
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Tuesday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Thursday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Saturday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
About
An experience for all five senses. Start at the Tekka Centre, a traditional wet market and food court where fresh meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits and dry goods are sold. Cruise down Serangoon Road to find more groceries, restaurants, teahouses, tailors and Mustafa Centre, a massive department store selling anything and everything. Visit during Deepavali, the Hindu festival of light, held in October or November.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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Neighbourhood: Central Area/City Area
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See what travellers are saying
- Sally RBrisbane, Australia30 contributionsLittle India comes to life with Angel!Little India came alive with Angel's commentary today. As a Singapore local, Angel took us on a sensory adventure through what must be the most colourful and vibrant part of this amazing city. A must do walking tour for sure!Visited October 2023Travelled soloWritten October 5, 2023
- cjbray13124 contributionsSomewhere different to go at night in SingaporeA interesting place to come at night. Night markets, street all lit up in bright colours. Interesting shopping Centre Mustafa's. Great food. But packed with local Indian people doing their shopping. Very busy. A bit overwhelming for my daughter.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten November 17, 2023
- Dan LBunbury, Australia8,538 contributionsVibrant Enclave in SingaporeWonderful place to visit in Singapore and ranks alongside Chinatown and Kampong Glan. A walk up Serangoon Road towards the Mustafa Centre introduces a visitor to the scents and offerings of the enclave with many eateries, jewelry shops, clothing outlets, florists, sweet shops, money changers and many other trades. A mixture of old and new blends seamlessly and provides a feast for the senses. Colorful temples, mosques, places of worship for other faiths, it's an ethnic melting pot.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten December 26, 2023
- GeorgiePerth, Australia374 contributionsLittle India missVisited this area as part of the hop on/off bus and I think I got off on the wrong part of Little India. The crowds and rain didn't help so I only stayed for less than an hour. The shop owners would follow you whenever you entered their store, expecting to buy up big, and never left you alone which was rather annoying. Not an enjoyable experience here compared to Chinatown.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten February 22, 2024
- Johnny HBelfast, United Kingdom211 contributionsIt is what it is, but worth the experienceI laughed at the reviews before I went. Some stating it was too like India, lol. Of course it’s like India, it’s in the title. It was a great vibe and experience but honestly we didn’t want gold, fruit, flashy electronics or cheap clothes. If you are in the mood for shopping, you will appreciate the haggle but we weren’t really there for that. We did go for food and found the food market, which was of course chaos but once again we expected that. Great flavours and get that tick boxVisited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 20, 2024
- Brown_SamanthaKennewick, Washington1,780 contributionsWonderful place to explore to take in the amazing colorsWe followed a self guided walking tour we found online, and set foot to explore Little India. It is easily reachable via the MRT. So many bold colors to take in, very small and crowded shops that sell just about anything. It took us a bit to get used to the "smell" and garbage, not the typical clean Singapore sights. Oh well, it is after all, Little India. Be sure to take lots of photos. So many opportunities. We especially like the murals that depicted horse racing and colorful playful cows. The Masjid Abdul Gafoor was also worth a stop (even though it is Islamic). We also admired the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and its five-tier Gopuram. So many colorful and ornate statues.Visited February 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 20, 2024
- Hitcher84Eureka, California1,426 contributionsWorth a visit on a Singapore tripNice Indian neighborhood to visit, especially to sample food or to shop. Lots of store line the main road. There is a large Hindu temple and some other important historical and religious sites. Several restaurants to try different kinds of Indian food. Large number of food stalls in Tekka center are a good bet.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten March 21, 2024
- jetboyb747Tecumseh, Canada172 contributionsCool DistrictOn one of our tours, we ventured through what is known in Singapore, as Little India. What a cool but extremely busy area. The arcade has to be one of the most stocked stores in the entire world. I am not sure if there is anything that you cannot buy here and the prices are quite awesome. You have to go here. We wandered the streets where you will find tailors sewing, people fixing cell phones, street food. Just about anything.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten March 23, 2024
- Culture341053963671 contributionAmazing food, intimidating men, ludicrous marketsI have ADHD and Autism and I'll never go to Little India again. I thought the main area was bad, with lines of men staring at us as we walked past, but the markets were something else. So loud, so crowded, so incredibly overwhelming - the definition of a sensory nightmare. This plus the oppressive heat meant I just could not deal. I went into shutdown mode and borderline dissociated on the train ride to our next destination. I do not understand the appeal of any of it. The one plus side was the best Indian food I have EVER eaten, found at Flavours in the main area.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten May 19, 2024
- Roslyn138Wrexham, United Kingdom1,177 contributionsFascinating DistrictThis was one district that we hadn’t visited on a previous visit to the city - east to get to by MRT . It’s a colourful and vibrant part that has a past that goes back to the 19th century. We also visited the Sri Veeramakalimman Temple which is dedicated to the goddess Kali. A wander around takes you to the colourful Tan Teng Niah Chinese villa as well as numerous street art which we like . Worth a visit if you can cope with the hustle and crowds .Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten May 28, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
4,134 reviews
Excellent
1,022
Very good
1,743
Average
954
Poor
264
Terrible
151
pd7
Weymouth, UK545 contributions
Dec 2019
A very colourful area of Singapore that is, like Chinatown, always busy/bustling! There are plenty of shops/jewellers, eateries, etc, but look out for the colourful buildings and murals and especially the temples. Very photogenic in places - probably more so than Chinatown, the River or Marina Bay. Well worth seeing - a highlight.
Written February 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SLKmaniac
Hampshire, UK632 contributions
Feb 2020
I've never been to India but if this is just a taste of what it's like then it'll do for me. It's the exact opposite of the rest of Singapore full of narrow bustling streets selling just about everything you can think of and lots of stuff you never even knew existed. It's hot, busy, and to me, totally chaotic but everyone is very friendly and just trying to make a living. Some of the restaurant and food stall take a bit of getting used to as I’ve never seen anything like them before, and I’ve never sat next to a guy eating a curry with his hand!
For us it was a real education and quite a lot of fun - don’t miss it.
For us it was a real education and quite a lot of fun - don’t miss it.
Written February 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joshua Trimidal
Prague, Czech Republic105 contributions
Aug 2022
A colorful place or area full of great restaurants. You can eat cheaply, but most restaurants are expensive, which can spoil the impression of the place. I definitely recommend reading reviews of all restaurants, because some restaurants and bars are not of such high quality and the service speed is slow. This place is definitely great for Instagram photos and quality travel videos. Everyone will find what they are looking for.
Written September 7, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael T
Formby, UK1,130 contributions
Jan 2020
Little India was an interesting experience. The are many temples in its vicinity and most allow you inside if you are dressed appropriately and remove your shoes. The temples are extremely colourful and ornate. Some might describe them as garish, but whilst not to my taste I did appreciate the artistry and the significance for the people who worshipped there. They really were an eye opener. The worshippers inside accepted the intrusion of the tourists with good grace and a smile.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mjail5
Perth, Australia1,400 contributions
Jul 2022
The first tourist attraction we came across in Little India was the former house of Tan Teng Niah - a Chinaman. It should not be a surprise seeing that Singapore is so multi-cultural with the Chinese, Indian and Malays making up the majority of the population. Likewise in Chinatown, the mosque and Indian temple are amongst the attractions there.
Whilst walking around Little India, we noticed a queue and it was already past 9am. We did not know what to expect except assuming the food has to be good for people to queue at that time. Joined the queue and when we got to the front of the line, we had a look at the menu and decided on the dosais. My goodness, they were the best we have ever had. We had both the masala and mysore masala together with tea and masala tea costing us only SGD 14.60.
We continued walking around Little India passing the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple which we did not go in as we were wearing shorts. Wanted to go into the Abdul Gafoor Mosque but could not find the entrance.
Walking around we came across a food court, Eat Box which was deserted at lunch time and seemed out of place in Little India. We did return to Little India a second time at night and again it was pretty empty.
However, at night the atmosphere in Little India was totally different - it really felt as though you were in India with the throngs of mainly Indian men about. I was surprise to see Security around but did not feel uneasy at all. For dinner, we went to Apolo, a banana leaf curry restaurant. Food was delicious but on the pricey side.
When you visit Singapore, make sure you immerse your self in the different cultures by visiting Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam.
Whilst walking around Little India, we noticed a queue and it was already past 9am. We did not know what to expect except assuming the food has to be good for people to queue at that time. Joined the queue and when we got to the front of the line, we had a look at the menu and decided on the dosais. My goodness, they were the best we have ever had. We had both the masala and mysore masala together with tea and masala tea costing us only SGD 14.60.
We continued walking around Little India passing the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple which we did not go in as we were wearing shorts. Wanted to go into the Abdul Gafoor Mosque but could not find the entrance.
Walking around we came across a food court, Eat Box which was deserted at lunch time and seemed out of place in Little India. We did return to Little India a second time at night and again it was pretty empty.
However, at night the atmosphere in Little India was totally different - it really felt as though you were in India with the throngs of mainly Indian men about. I was surprise to see Security around but did not feel uneasy at all. For dinner, we went to Apolo, a banana leaf curry restaurant. Food was delicious but on the pricey side.
When you visit Singapore, make sure you immerse your self in the different cultures by visiting Little India, Chinatown and Kampong Glam.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard M
Vancouver, WA161 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn in Little India for 4 nights. The area was bustling with activity. The stores stayed open late and people were strolling or racing down the street. Many wore attire you would expect to see in India. You will not find many or any restaurants serving cuisine other than Indian. However it is excellent Indian food. There is a centrally located MRT Station which made it easy to get anywhere in the city.
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
macedonboy
Glasgow, UK186,214 contributions
Mar 2020
This little bit of India in Singapore is filled with Hindu temples and South Asian eateries. In my personal opinion, there really wasn’t that much to see except for the Former House of Tan Teng Niah.
Don’t get me wrong, the area is colourful and if South Asian food is your thing, then you’ll enjoy it much more than I did. Little India is fairly easy to get to as there is a MRT station on the Downtown line that’ll take you right there.
Don’t get me wrong, the area is colourful and if South Asian food is your thing, then you’ll enjoy it much more than I did. Little India is fairly easy to get to as there is a MRT station on the Downtown line that’ll take you right there.
Written March 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
gfsc5
Perth, Australia1,786 contributions
Mar 2023
My wife and I visited Little India on a wet day but that didn't stop us seeing what we wanted.
As with any of these sorts of areas, there's a mix of good and bad. There were the shops selling tourist stuff (ornaments, Indian clothing etc.), the shopkeepers desperately trying to lure people inside, colourful garlands of flowers, colourful buildings, and other tourist-type offerings.
There were areas for the locals, though. I'm thinking specifically of the Tekka Centre which is a mix of food hall and wet market. Lots and lots of small stalls selling a massive range of, mainly, South Asian food. The wet market had lots of fruit and vegetables, fish (some actually on ice but most not!), and meat (some cleaving going on as we passed the stalls). Of interest were the birds pecking away at the meat that somebody was probably going to buy later in the day.
It's worth a visit to see a different part, and side, of Singapore.
As with any of these sorts of areas, there's a mix of good and bad. There were the shops selling tourist stuff (ornaments, Indian clothing etc.), the shopkeepers desperately trying to lure people inside, colourful garlands of flowers, colourful buildings, and other tourist-type offerings.
There were areas for the locals, though. I'm thinking specifically of the Tekka Centre which is a mix of food hall and wet market. Lots and lots of small stalls selling a massive range of, mainly, South Asian food. The wet market had lots of fruit and vegetables, fish (some actually on ice but most not!), and meat (some cleaving going on as we passed the stalls). Of interest were the birds pecking away at the meat that somebody was probably going to buy later in the day.
It's worth a visit to see a different part, and side, of Singapore.
Written March 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Brown_Samantha
Kennewick, WA1,780 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
We followed a self guided walking tour we found online, and set foot to explore Little India. It is easily reachable via the MRT. So many bold colors to take in, very small and crowded shops that sell just about anything. It took us a bit to get used to the "smell" and garbage, not the typical clean Singapore sights. Oh well, it is after all, Little India.
Be sure to take lots of photos. So many opportunities. We especially like the murals that depicted horse racing and colorful playful cows.
The Masjid Abdul Gafoor was also worth a stop (even though it is Islamic). We also admired the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and its five-tier Gopuram. So many colorful and ornate statues.
Be sure to take lots of photos. So many opportunities. We especially like the murals that depicted horse racing and colorful playful cows.
The Masjid Abdul Gafoor was also worth a stop (even though it is Islamic). We also admired the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and its five-tier Gopuram. So many colorful and ornate statues.
Written March 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sally R
Brisbane, Australia30 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
Little India came alive with Angel's commentary today. As a Singapore local, Angel took us on a sensory adventure through what must be the most colourful and vibrant part of this amazing city. A must do walking tour for sure!
Written October 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bonjour,
Comment accède t on à ces bus ?
Nous allons bientôt sur singapore et nous avons choisi Singapore Airlines.
Merci du tuyau !!!
Written May 11, 2018
Bonjour Gael
Je ne comprends pas ta question. Si c'est l'accès au quartier de Little India que tu cherches, le mieux est de prendre le métro qui dessert très bien le coin.
Slts
Written May 14, 2018
how safe is little india to walk with family and little kids at night?
Written August 6, 2017
Totally safe! I (female) was waking alone and felt super safe!
Written August 6, 2017
By What time do the shops open? Planning to visit Little India and Arab street in the morning followed by zoo in the afternoon and night safari following it. Does the plan sounds good?
Also Is Little India and Arab Street open on all days including Sundays?
Written April 2, 2017
Shops are open at 9
Some even earlier
They are open all week
Written April 28, 2017
Do stores and restaurants accept credit card? Where to go to exchange your dollar ? Do we need to pay mostly cash or credit cards will do ?
Written March 15, 2017
Most of the larger restaurants in Little India accept credit cards. Some of the small business do not.
Written March 15, 2017
is it good to look for hotels in little india after getting there or book in advance
Written February 18, 2017
It's probably easier to book one in advance, especially for your first night. If you want to change hotels after you get there you can always either walk in and see if a hotel has availability or book online.
Written February 18, 2017
claremull89
Sydney, Australia
When is the best time of day to visit little India
Written January 3, 2017
Most shops are usually open by 10.30 am , a good time to start shopping. You can start a little earlier if you plan on eating breakfast there followed by shopping.
Written January 3, 2017
Is it possible to visit the temples in Little India? If so, what time? I read they are open 5:30am-9:30pm daily, however, the last time we were there (sometime after lunch) we were told they were closed. I just don't want to miss going this time. Thank you.
Written November 11, 2016
try morning and evening hours, thats when temples will be open and in the evening at different times the temples will have the special aarti puja
Written November 12, 2016
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