Joanna James
As the Indian community stronghold in the Lion City, Little India is more than a bargain hunter’s paradise. From heritage centres and iconic landmarks, here’s a list of 10 points of interest you can’t miss during a tour of this vibrant neighbourhood.
Devoted to the worship of the Hindu Goddess Kali, Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is arguably one of Little India’s most venerated religious hotspots. An architectural marvel in its own right, this stunning ancient edifice is an active temple that’s open to visitors from 6 am to noon and 6 pm to 9 pm.
Dating back to the early 1900s, this charming Chinese villa is the only remaining residence of its kind close to Little India. Having served as the home of local sweet merchant Tan Teng Niah, this colourful building is a focal part of the area’s history.
Located in Jurong East, the Singapore Botanic Garden is another highlight you can explore during a tour of Little India. As one of the first horticultural attractions in Singapore, the venue is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site that welcomes joggers, picnickers and visitors from 5 am onwards.
As another cultural institution near Little India, travellers with a passion for old churches can also discover the historic confines of this cathedral that still serves the faithful to this day. Those who wish to attend a mass are more than welcome to do so if their visit coincides with the appointed hours.
Celebrating the rich cultural heritage and legacy of the Indian migrant community in Singapore, the Indian Heritage Centre is the only museum of its kind in Little India. The vast compound with countless galleries exhibits artefacts and relics from early Indian settlers and is undeniably one of the most fascinating tourist attractions down Campbell Lane.
While it may not be as popular as the Mustafa Centre, this shopping complex housed in a large warehouse is a must-experience retail hub for bargain hunters. Ideally located within a stone’s throw of the Little India MRT station, the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling market will undoubtedly prove intoxicating for avid shopaholics.
Compared to the London Eye due to its design and function, this massive Ferris wheel affords some of the best views of Singapore. Rotating at 0.21 m a second, enjoying a ride on The Flyer’s observation pods is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss.
As the main reason why most tourists head to Little India in the first place, a shopping spree at the enormous Mustafa Shopping Centre is a rite of passage for budget shoppers. Whether you are based at Hotel 81 Kovan or any other hotel in Kovan, the retail experience that awaits you at this mammoth shopping mall is overwhelming, to say the least.
Home to some of Little India’s finest restaurants and cafes, Serangoon Road also boasts old-fashioned shophouses that have occupied the area as early as 1840.
Although tourists head to this mega mall to enjoy its retail outlets, local families typically spend their Saturdays or Sundays enjoying the mall’s splash centre facilities.
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.
