Joanna James
Although most travellers head to Singapore to enjoy its newest attractions such as the Gardens by the Bay and for retail adventures down Orchard Road, there's more to the Lion City than these popular tourist hubs. Here are 5 heritage sites where one can encounter the island's South Asian roots.
Having the distinct honour of being the oldest and first Hindu temple surviving in Singapore, your South Asian cultural tour of the country should begin here. A visit to the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple will be an unforgettable experience for travellers as it is dedicated to the Goddess Kali and was built as early as 1881. As the fiercest embodiment of Shakti power, the Goddess Kali is depicted in temple murals wearing necklaces made from skulls and being violent towards her victims. Built by immigrants of the Hindu faith who settled in Singapore, this temple adorned with impressive carvings lies at the centre of Little India.
Visitors based at D'Hotel Singapore or any other hotel near Tiong Bahru must also tour the Thian Hock Keng Temple. Ranked among Singapore's most famous heritage sites, the temple which is flanked by imposing sculptures of tigers and lions is the oldest Chinese temple on the island. Dedicated to the worship of the God of Mercy Kuan Yin and Mazu, the Goddess of Sea, this vast complex is an architectural marvel like no other in Singapore. The elaborately carved facades of the temple and the countless statues are not all there is to see as the alters of this temple constructed in 1824 are just as breathtaking.
Dating back to World War II, The Battle Box served as the underground commanding hub for local forces during the height of the fighting. The bomb-proof military bunker remains as it has for decades with wax figures representing the various officers who would have instructed Singaporean forces from this communications hub. Open from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm, this compound contains 27 rooms and can be accessed by 2 entrances. One of the most tragic decisions that were made at Battle Box includes Singapore's surrender to Japanese forces.
Occupying pride of place in Kampong Glam, Haji Lane is a vibrant area of Singapore lined with murals and charming cafes. As the home base of the Malay and Islamic immigrant communities of Singapore, the Kampong Glam District is a cultural melting pot centred around Masjid Sultan. In addition to wining and dining on local delicacies only available in this area of Singapore visitors can also shop for souvenirs and vinyl records during a trip to Haji Lane.
Another Singaporean heritage structure dating back to the 1820s, the Sultan Mosque is no ordinary place of worship on the island. Named after Sultan Hussein Shah, the first sultan in Singapore, the mosque is a large and captivating edifice composed of golden minarets, massive prayer halls and the capacity to host 5000 worshippers.
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