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A Guide to the Little India Heritage Centre to Spice Up Your Visit
Whenever I stroll through Little India, it’s hard not to be drawn to the Indian Heritage Centre—a true gem where history, art, and community blend seamlessly.
This guide to the said centre is for anyone curious about culture or craving a deep dive into local history.
Expect to find immersive exhibits that not only tell but show you the essence of Indian heritage in Singapore—think hands-on activities, scent-filled galleries, and beautifully crafted artefacts.
Background and History
In 2008, the idea of an Indian Heritage Centre was born to celebrate and preserve Singapore’s Indian heritage.
After years of planning and anticipation, it opened its doors in 2015, becoming Singapore’s third Heritage Institution—a colourful addition to Little India and a cultural treasure.
The centre’s mission is more than just showcasing history; it’s about deepening understanding of the Indian community’s vibrant contributions to Singapore’s multicultural society.
Things to Know
Location: 5 Campbell Lane
Contact: +6562911601
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM–6 PM
Fees:
Singaporeans and Permanent Residents: Free admission
Adults: S$8
Seniors (60 years & above): S$5
Students: S$5
Persons with disabilities (PWD): S$5 (with free admission for the first caretaker)
Family package of 5: S$24 (not exceeding 3 adults per family)
Children (under 6 years): Free admission
Amenities: Restrooms, stroller parking, gift shop, visitor services counter
Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller-friendly ramps, elevators, and restrooms; wheelchairs free of charge at the visitor services counter on Level 1 (subject to availability)
Pet-friendly? No
Rules and restrictions:
✔ Dress modestly
✔ Store large bags in provided lockers
✖ No flash photography
✖ No pets (except service animals)
✖ No food or drink
✖ No loud noises and voices
✖ No touching of exhibitions
How to Get There
Closest MRT: Alight at Little India Station (NE7/DT12) on the North East or Downtown Line. Use Exit E, which leads to Buffalo Road. From there, it’s a brief 5-minute walk: proceed southeast along Buffalo Road, turn right onto Campbell Lane, and you’ll find the centre at 5 Campbell Lane.
Closest bus station: Alight at Bus Stop 07031 on Serangoon Road in front of Tekka Centre (serviced by buses 23, 64, 65, 66, 67, 131, 139, 147, and 857) or Bus Stop 07539 on Sungei Road after Serangoon Road (serviced by buses 48, 56, 57, 131, 166, 170, 640, 960, and 980). Both stops are a short walk to the centre at 5 Campbell Lane.
By car: The nearest drop-off point is on Clive Street, adjacent to the centre. Parking options include street parking along Upper Dickson Road and nearby areas, as well as a basement car park at Tekka Centre.
What to Do
Join a guided tour
Media from indianheritage_sg
A guided tour at the Indian Heritage Centre is like a living tapestry, woven from artefacts and stories lovingly gathered from the local Indian community. The passionate guides bring each piece of history to life, and their enthusiasm is contagious.
I learned that these tours are conducted by dedicated volunteer docents. They are often from organisations like Friends of the Museums (FOM) and the Museum Volunteers group, and lead tours in various languages, including English, Tamil, and Mandarin.
Visit the permanent galleries
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I learned so much from visiting the Indian Heritage Centre’s permanent galleries!
Through five immersive themes, I traced the journey of Indian pioneers, from early migrations to their deep-rooted influence on Singapore’s culture. Plus, I was surrounded by cultural treasures, from traditional jewellery and clothing to rare artefacts that show the everyday life and dreams of early settlers.
View notable artefacts
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Checking out the notable artefacts at the Indian Heritage Centre is like peeking into someone’s treasure chest. Each item has a story that’s as rich as it is colourful. Some items come with personal stories, adding an extra layer of warmth and history to the experience.
From intricately designed traditional garb and glittering jewellery to hand-painted ceramics, every piece gives you a glimpse into the everyday lives and celebrations of Singapore’s Indian community.
Drop by the temporary exhibits
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Each new temporary exhibit at the Indian Heritage Centre brings a fresh perspective on South Asian culture in Singapore. With them, there’s always a reason to come back and see what’s unfolding next in this cultural storybook.
I managed to catch “Sikhs in Singapore: A Story Untold,” whose unique theme was the contributions of Sikhism in Singapore. Another temp exhibit I saw focused on other facets of Indian heritage that keep things feeling current and connected.
Join themed workshops
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With all the cultural info I’ve soaked up, I figured joining themed workshops at the Indian Heritage Centre is like adding a dash of spice to my cultural journey.
Recently, the centre hosted hands-on sessions like traditional Rangoli art, henna design, and Indian textile printing—each offering a fun way to connect with Indian heritage. I also joined a fragrantly satisfying floral arrangement class!
Do note that some workshops are free, while others may have a nominal fee. It’s best to check the official website or contact the centre directly for the latest details and registration information.
Try the heritage game stations
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The Little India Heritage Centre’s game stations want you to remember when fun didn’t require screens or Wi-Fi, and everything was innocent and wholesome.
These interactive stations are typically available during special events and festivals, such as the Deepavali Open House, offering visitors a hands-on experience of traditional Indian games.
You could try Pallanguzhi, a traditional mancala game that hones counting and strategy with pits and seeds. My favourite is Paramapadham, the original “Snakes and Ladders,” where you navigate virtues and vices along the board!
Buy something unique at the gift shop
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After immersing yourself in the vibrant exhibits of the Indian Heritage Centre, don’t miss the chance to snag a unique keepsake at the gift shop. The shop offers a curated selection that lets you take a piece of the experience home.
I couldn’t resist picking up a beautifully handcrafted batik scarf, a steal at around S$25, which adds a splash of culture to any outfit. For my little niece, I found an adorable wooden elephant figurine priced at S$15, a charming nod to Indian artistry.
