Joanna James
Bugis and Kampong Glam are two neighbouring towns that are different from each other, but its combination makes a great cultural scene. Not only some great religious attractions, but there are also some impressive shopping spots, restaurants, and other points of interest.
The Sultan Mosque was constructed by Sultan Hussain Shah back in 1824. However, the mosque you see today is what Denis Santry constructed 5 years after the original creation by Sultan, replacing the same. Just as how Buddhists respect the Buddha Tooth Temple in Chinatown, this Sultan Mosque has become the main religious building in Singapore for the Muslims. Its grand central prayer room can accommodate 5000 worshippers at a time.
The walking streets you find here can be narrow, but they are pretty and colourful. You may head to the Haji Lane in an afternoon to click photos in front of the artistic graffiti walls, and you may find many interesting boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants on your way.
If you are holidaying in one of the best value hotels in Singapore the likes of Destination Singapore Beach Road, the Arab Street is not even 1km away from you. Take the chance and explore this colourful street filled with small restaurants, vendors, and boutique shops. If you visit Arab Street, you are sure to find the best shops for Halal food in Singapore.
This temple is not only for the worshipper, it welcomes all the visitors as well. Kwan Im is considered the Goddess of Mercy and this temple is believed to have been dedicated to her. Every day, large crowds of people come to visit this temple to receive blessings from her to their lives.
Right next to the Kwan Im Hood, there's another temple worth visiting. This is a Hindu Temple and is believed to have been dedicated to Sri Krishna, and his wife Rukmini. Statues of them have been built right at the entrance of this temple to welcome the guests, and although it dates back to 1870, the temple and the statues are in condition even today.
It's about another great shopping experience. If you want to buy T-shirts, shoes, and handbags at unbelievably cheap rates, the Bugis Street Market is where you should head to. There's also a flea market located close to this market (its name goes as Sungei Road Thieves Market) in which you can find dresses and accessories at cheaper prices.
Istana Kampong Glam is considered the official palace of the former Sultan, and in the same colonial building, you find the Malay Heritage Centre as well. This is the place you should visit to know the detailed story of the Singapore Malays. Malays represent the second largest ethnic community in the country, and this place tells you everything about their origin, the struggles they had to go through, and also their aspirations.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
