Little India
Little India
3.8
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Friday
Closed
Saturday
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Sunday
Closed
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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The area
Neighborhood: Central Area/City Area
Singapore's Central Area, also known as the City Area, is a treasure trove of cultural, historical, and modern attractions. Uncover the rich history of this neighborhood at the National Museum of Singapore or the Asian Civilisations Museum. Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Marina Bay Sands and the towering skyscrapers that punctuate the skyline. The Central Area is a food lover's paradise with hawker centers serving local favorites like Hainanese chicken rice and chili crab, and upscale restaurants offering international cuisines. With an extensive network of MRT stations, buses, and taxis, navigating this neighborhood is a breeze. At night, the Central Area transforms into a lively hub with Clarke Quay and Boat Quay offering an array of entertainment and nightlife options.
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879 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- SuratrichardSurat Thani, Thailand2,674 contributionsThe sights, the sounds and the smells form an intoxicating mix and make this area of Singapore well worth visiting. The easiest way to get there is to use the MRT to Little India station and it’s only as short walk to Serangoon Rd which runs through the heart of the district. Many of the old colonial style buildings have been restored against the backdrop of modern high rise apartments. Street stalls are plentiful from fruit sellers to tailors…it seems anything goes in Little India! There is an Heritage Centre but take note that it is closed on Mondays so we weren’t able to visit. There’s plenty of eating places and a fascinating looking market. The traffic on Serangoon Road is quite busy but in Singapore, vehicles actually stop at a red traffic light! Little India is a complete contrast to the business district and the area around Marina Bay but we would thoroughly recommend visiting.Visited December 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten December 12, 2024
- PernellevoyageValence, France6,461 contributionsLittle India in Singapore is a picturesque and lively area, but one that can disappoint with its sometimes messy atmosphere and limited appeal. Despite its colorful temples and exotic markets, the place can quickly seem repetitive and less captivating compared to other attractions in the city. The noisy and chaotic appearance may also not appeal to all travelers, especially those who prefer quieter and more sophisticated areas. Personally, despite the colors and life in this neighborhood I did not particularly appreciate it. On the other hand it is worth highlighting some beautiful murals, temples and colorful facades. If you have never visited an Indian neighborhood this may be interesting, but not the most impressive I have seen.Visited July 2024Traveled soloWritten October 3, 2024
- spedubecBologna, Italy5,866 contributionsSingapore, like New York, is a city where all ethnic groups coexist peacefully, each living in their own neighborhood. Little India is therefore the neighborhood inhabited mainly by Indians (as well as Pakistanis and Bangladeshis). There are shops of all kinds, Buddhist and Hindu temples as well as some mosques. There is no shortage of bars and restaurants run by Indians.Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 1, 2024
- oak2wnOakland, California1,269 contributionsWe went on a Sunday at 5 pm. It was so crowded with locals. I am a city girl and don't mind big crowds, but I was overwhelmed by how many people were here. It probably didn't help that we had walked half an hour in the heat and humidity. It was hard to even just walk down the streets here due to the crowds. We did manage to find a restaurant on a side street that had air conditioning. The food was great. I wanted to explore the area more and check out the markets, but it was too difficult with the crowds, so we walked back to the hotel. I was only able to take a couple photos because we were trying to keep moving.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 15, 2024
- ElBassoItaly3,320 contributionsDefinitely a must-see neighborhood in Singapore. Clean and tidy, with very beautiful and well-kept temples. The houses with the murals are also noteworthy: despite the peak period from a tourist point of view, there it turned without crowd. Very pleasant.Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten September 5, 2024
- Roslyn138Wrexham, United Kingdom1,202 contributionsThis 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 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 28, 2024
- Robin PLos Angeles, California72 contributionsLittle India is an interesting ethnic neighborhood, but also junky. The stores and restaurants are close to the narrow sidewalks, making walking awkward. There are zillions of restaurants, with freshly made, authentic food. The temples are interesting to see for 10-15 minutes. If you want a break from the heat--or need a restroom-- the Indian Heritage Center is a good stop. To get there, you walk through the Tekka Center from Serangoon Street.Visited October 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten October 9, 2024
- Culture341053963671 contributionI 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 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 19, 2024
- jetboyb747Tecumseh, Canada175 contributionsOn 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 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten March 23, 2024
- Bret CRussia3 contributionsThe area is full of colours and energy, making it an ideal place to explore for an hour or two. Don't miss the chance to visit one of the temples - this is an experience that will stay with you. The sights and sounds create an indelible experience, making it a truly memorable visit.Visited August 2024Traveled with friendsWritten November 21, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Sunrise
Sydney, Australia65 contributions
Jan 2025 • Family
We lasted one minute before leaving.
It’s filled with groups of loitering men who stare down women (I was there with my husband and 4 year old daughter). In the one minute we were there a man made luring sounds at my 4 year old. In the few minutes we were at the station waiting for the train I got smiled at by one man and smiled at by another on the train at that stop despite trying very hard to keep my head down. It’s very very very scary. It’s not appropriate behaviour and now I understand why so many countries have rules against loitering.
Your ethnicity does not matter. They will behave in the same way.
It also basically looks a lot like the shabby parts of India. I.e., dirty and crowded.
We went at 6pm on a Wednesday.
It’s filled with groups of loitering men who stare down women (I was there with my husband and 4 year old daughter). In the one minute we were there a man made luring sounds at my 4 year old. In the few minutes we were at the station waiting for the train I got smiled at by one man and smiled at by another on the train at that stop despite trying very hard to keep my head down. It’s very very very scary. It’s not appropriate behaviour and now I understand why so many countries have rules against loitering.
Your ethnicity does not matter. They will behave in the same way.
It also basically looks a lot like the shabby parts of India. I.e., dirty and crowded.
We went at 6pm on a Wednesday.
Written January 1, 2025
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.
Princes of travel
Paris, France7,726 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
The Little India district is located north of the city center, right next to Kampong Glam.
Mainly inhabited by the Indian population, you can see street art, a temple, a colorful house and in particular several different markets.
There are vegetables and fruits typical of Asia. You will be able to find expensive SIM cards for a lot of data and roaming on site, unlike at the airport where the prices charged are prohibitive.
You can walk there if you have time but it is not necessarily a must-see in the city.
Mainly inhabited by the Indian population, you can see street art, a temple, a colorful house and in particular several different markets.
There are vegetables and fruits typical of Asia. You will be able to find expensive SIM cards for a lot of data and roaming on site, unlike at the airport where the prices charged are prohibitive.
You can walk there if you have time but it is not necessarily a must-see in the city.

Written October 12, 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, WA1,860 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.
🇸🇦 أسماء 🌴
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia179 contributions
Sep 2024 • Family
The visit was July 2023. This neighborhood I can't call clean, dirty, crowded, smelly, and generally narrow walkways are uncomfortable. I couldn't shop just focused on gold. Admire a grocery store and find a large gold slot. I bought from a go-to venue a lot of busy, colorful yellow spots pleasing to the viewers things I know, things I know for the legs for hair, huge-sized wings, diverse religious symbols, and a shopkeeper in there wearing a silk and a dough of gold, a no-frills idea. There are shrine or hindu temples not entered. There is a mosque or an Islamic school in front of which a Halal restaurant is thought to be Malawi. Unfortunately, I didn't spread the stone before we entered the restaurant.
Automatically translated
Written September 26, 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.
gfsc5
Perth, Australia1,912 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.
NOPPO185
Fujisawa, Japan1,374 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
As soon as I left the station, the smell was different. It was spicy. Oh, there were only Indians walking around with their brows furrowed. They looked scary. Are they angry? There were a lot of people wearing saris and turbans. After walking around Arab Street and Chinatown, I was in India. Singapore is a strange country. Do they live so close to each other?
The gilded gold store, the supermarket selling flies-infested vegetables, the stores with slightly suspicious trunks lined up in front of their stores, they're all thriving. This area is not for tourists, it's a town where tourists are allowed to visit everyday life.
The gilded gold store, the supermarket selling flies-infested vegetables, the stores with slightly suspicious trunks lined up in front of their stores, they're all thriving. This area is not for tourists, it's a town where tourists are allowed to visit everyday life.

Written November 24, 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.
wang2383
Longjing, Taichung72,209 contributions
Feb 2024 • Family
Little India is the Indian community in Singapore and one of the three major historical preservation areas in Singapore. It has delicious Indian food, the smell of various Indian spices, and stalls selling jasmine garlands used by Indian believers for worship. You can see many brightly colored buildings here, one of the more special ones is a colorful 2-story villa dating back to 1900. Located on Jabal Road, it is one of the only remaining Chinese-style buildings in Little India. It was built during the colonial period of Singapore and is the former residence of Chen Dongling. This time we were just experiencing the Indian culture and didn’t buy anything in particular.

Written March 11, 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.
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.
mjail5
Perth, Australia1,399 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.
Sally R
Brisbane, Australia31 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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