Categories > Guides and Tips
Singapore’s Delhi: A Guide to Little India
- How to Get There
- Top Things to Do
- Learn about Indian culture at the Indian Heritage Centre
- Do a photoshoot around Tan Teng Niah House
- Look out for Little India’s colourful street art
- Go boulder climbing at OYEYO Boulder Home
- Get a different look at Little India at New World’s End: An Immersive Audio Experience
- Marvel at the Abdul Gafoor Mosque
- Learn about the Singapore public transit system at the Singapore Mobility Gallery
- Where to Eat
- The Banana Leaf Apolo
- Muthu’s Curry
- Mr Biryani
- Tekka Centre
- Komala Vilas
- The Malayan Council
- Ananda Bhavan
- Where to Stay
- The Great Madras
- Perak Hotel
- The Vagabond Club
- Wanderlust by Ascott
- Where to Shop
- Mustafa Centre
- Pottu Kara Maami
As you set foot in the heart of Little India, you might wonder if you’ve stumbled into the bustling streets of Delhi instead of a vibrant district in this island city.
This neighbourhood is a treasure trove of vividly-hued architecture, delicious food, and bustling shops.
Not sure where to start exploring? From things to do to where to eat, let this guide help you discover Little India like a pro traveller!
How to Get There
By Bus: Little India is served by Bus Lines 131, 147, 64, 65, and 67.
By Train: Little India is accessible via the North East (NEL – purple) and Downtown (DTL – blue) MRT lines, offering six exits. To reach the Tekka Centre, opt for Exits B or C.
By Car: You can drive to any point inside Little India or hail a taxi and get dropped off at landmarks like Tekka Centre or Mustafa Centre.
Top Things to Do
Learn about Indian culture at the Indian Heritage Centre
Address: 5 Campbell Ln, Singapore 209924
Contact Details: +6562911601
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm
The Indian Heritage Centre is a culturally rich museum that should definitely be on your must-visit list. It offers a wonderful opportunity to gain insights into the significant contributions of the Indian community to shaping the history of Singapore.
This heritage centre also showcases the history of Indian migrants, allowing you to witness the diversity of early traders and merchants in Singapore. A must-see exhibition is From the Coromandel Coast to the Straits – Revisiting Our Tamil Heritage.
The exhibition has two parts: one traces pre-modern Tamil diasporas in Southeast Asia, and the other showcases lesser-known 19th-century pioneers and Singapore’s oldest Tamil families.
| Pro Tip: If available, consider joining a guided tour. Knowledgeable guides can provide valuable insights and context to the exhibits. |
Do a photoshoot around Tan Teng Niah House
– From ladyv_victoria
Address: 37 Kerbau Rd, Singapore 219168
Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Built in 1900, the Tan Teng Niah House was named in honour of Tan Teng Niah, a Chinese entrepreneur who started factories in Singapore. The house was primarily an ode to his wife.
Today, The Tan Teng Niah House provides an ideal backdrop for photography, thanks to its vibrant colours. These multicoloured hues harmoniously reflect the vibrant essence of Indian culture.
Additionally, it boasts distinctive features such as a swinging door, a sloping roof, and vivid windows. What’s particularly noteworthy is that this building is recognised as the final Chinese villa in Little India.
| Pro Tip: Don’t try to enter the house. Visitors are strictly prohibited from entering the Tan Teng Niah House. There is no time limit, however, to take photos outside! |
Look out for Little India’s colourful street art
– From khaulasmart
Singaporean districts are clad with street art, and Little India has no shortage of them! Explore a selection of murals situated along Clive Street, Upper Dickson Road, Kerbau Road, Hindoo Road, and Dunlop Street.
These artworks are the result of a partnership between LASALLE College of the Arts, the Singapore Tourism Board, and the Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association.
The street art portrays a range of subjects, including the evolving scenery of Little India, a classic dancer crafted by street artist Traseone, and a joint creation featuring buffalos surrounded by vibrant flowers and patterns.
| Pro Tip: Remember that many of these murals are on private property. Always respect the rights of property owners and do not trespass. |
Go boulder climbing at OYEYO Boulder Home
Address: 148 Mackenzie Rd, Singapore 228724
Contact Details: +6569962095
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Sunday and Saturday, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Got a little energy left? Consider bringing yourself or your friends to OYEYO Boulder Home for some boulder climbing. It’s one form of rock climbing that doesn’t require harnesses or knots––all you need to bring are comfortable shoes, clothes, and yourself!
First-timers can get a single-entry pass for just $18, and if you get the hang of bouldering after your first try, there are multiple entry passes valid for six and twelve months respectively.
If you’re staying nearby Little India and are looking for someplace to break a sweat (that’s not a regular gym), OYEYO Boulder Home should be on your radar. It’s also a lot more fun!
| Pro Tip: First-time climbers at OYEYO Boulder Home get a free pair of rental shoes. Simply approach any staff member and let them know you’re joining for the first time! |
Get a different look at Little India at New World’s End: An Immersive Audio Experience
Address: 85 Desker Rd, Singapore 209646
Operating Hours: Wednesday, Friday to Sunday, 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Want to see Little India in a different light and era? With OH! Open House’s novel, enduring immersive art experience, all that’s needed are a comfortable pair of shoes, a curious pair of eyes, attentive ears, and a generous dose of inquisitiveness.
New World’s End is an audio-guided, multisensory exploration of Little India and Jalan Besar that artfully melds fiction with historical elements.
The tour unveils the stories of the renowned New World Amusement Park and the area’s rich historical and cultural heritage. It’s an exclusive adventure that transports you through narrow passages, concealed chambers, and imaginative realms.
| Pro Tip: Doing the New World’s End tour on a Sunday entails exploring Little India and its massive crowds. If you want to avoid this, consider doing it on a weekday instead! |
Marvel at the Abdul Gafoor Mosque
Address: 41 Dunlop St, Singapore 209369
Contact Details: +6562954209
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 5:30 am to 7:00 am, 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Abdul Gaffoor Mosque is a top attraction in Little India, earning its status as one of Singapore’s national monuments due to its impressive architectural blend of Asian and European styles, including Moghul, Victorian, and Southern Indian influences.
Notably, the mosque features Neoclassical and Saracenic elements, with a star motif and a crescent moon as prominent ornamental details.
Beyond its architecture, this Little India mosque is culturally significant, offering Tamil and Dravidian language sessions.
If you get hungry, there are many halal restaurants (best halal restaurants singapore) located near the mosque. Take your time admiring the mosque from outside then get a taste of local halal cuisine to beat the heat!
| Pro Tip: If you wish to enter the prayer hall, ask for permission from a mosque official or guide. |
Learn about the Singapore public transit system at the Singapore Mobility Gallery
Address: 1 Hampshire Rd, Block 1 Level 1, Singapore 219428
Contact Details: +6518002255582
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
The Singapore Mobility Gallery offers a behind-the-scenes view of Singapore’s land transport system planning and design. It features interactive exhibits where visitors can experience roles like transport planning and bus captain training.
With free admission and air-conditioning, it’s a family-friendly place to learn. Ideal for transportation enthusiasts.
Some exhibitions to look out for are the Friendlier Roads, Happier Communities, Gamified Trail, and Training the Workers of Tomorrow.
| Pro Tip: Before your visit, you have to register at the Singapore Mobility Gallery’s website. If you’re coming with a big group, register a group booking instead! |
Where to Eat
The Banana Leaf Apolo
Address: 54 Race Course Rd, Singapore 218564
Contact Details: +6562938682
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 10:30 pm
Established in 1974 by S. Chellappan, this restaurant chain is renowned for preserving the South Indian tradition of serving meals on banana leaves. A standout item on their menu is the beloved fish head curry, which swiftly gained popularity among patrons.
Featuring a secret spice blend and pineapple, this delectable dish has become a signature offering for the restaurant. The restaurant’s success has led to numerous branches across the city and an expanded menu that introduces North Indian cuisine.
Be sure to pace yourself to leave room for the sweet finish: fried dough balls soaked in a sugary syrup known as gulab jamun.
| Pro Tip: Lunch hours on weekends tend to be crowded, but if you drop by on a weekday, you’re likely to get a table sooner! |
Muthu’s Curry
Address: 138 Race Course Rd, #01-01, Singapore 218591
Contact Details: +6563921722
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10:30 am to 10:30 pm
Founded in 1969 by Mr Ayyakkannu, he along with trained chefs have been passionately serving locals and tourists in Little India with delectable Indian dishes.
The menu, while concise, presents some must-try options, such as the indulgent butter chicken and the brinjal with its crispy, onion-infused character. Additionally, there’s a fine array of vegetarian offerings.
The star of the show here is the fish head curry. The well-appointed serving area, replete with hot trays of vividly coloured curries and a substantial tandoor, also provides a convenient takeaway option.
| Pro Tip: Muthu’s Curry is available for delivery islandwide! Simply place your orders on the website. |
Mr Biryani
Address: 32 Norris Rd, Singapore 208274
Contact Details: +6586614271
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 3:30 pm, 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Established in late 2017 by Chef Govinda Rajan, Mr Biryani is an Indian restaurant located in the heart of Little India. It is renowned for its special Hyderabadi-style biryani, complemented by a selection of well-known Indian dishes.
These dishes are meticulously seasoned with imported spices to deliver meals rich in flavour and aroma.
notable favourites include the Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani, Bhindi Palli Fry, and a variety of naans. If you have a lower tolerance for spiciness, it’s a good idea to consult with the waiter for their recommendations before making your order.
| Pro Tip: Booking a table in advance is a must because the queues at this restaurant in Little India are usually very long. |
Tekka Centre
Address: Tekka Ln, Aya Shop, Singapore
Tekka Centre houses one of the finest wet markets in the city, and its adjoining food centre has become a celebrated hawker destination where you can relish a variety of cuisines.
The biryani at Tekka Centre consistently receives high praise, with the chicken dum biryani from Yakader being a standout. It’s described as velvety but not oily, with tender, well-seasoned chicken.
Among other commendable Indian options, SJ Tandoori offers satisfying servings of butter chicken, particularly delightful when paired with crispy garlic naan. This place is a must-visit if you’re looking for budget meals in Little India.
| Pro Tip: Lunch and dinner are peak hours here, so consider eating here before or after those times to avoid large crowds and long queues. |
Komala Vilas
Address: 76-78 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 217981
Contact Details: +6562936980
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 10:30 pm
Komala Vilas Restaurant has been dishing up exceptional vegan cuisine since 1947, making it one of Singapore’s most esteemed and long-standing vegetarian dining establishments.
Both locals and tourists hold a deep affection for Komala Vilas, making it a sought-after destination for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant operates without any breaks, allowing you to relish their delectable fare at any hour.
Consider trying the extensive vegetable biryani set, which includes chapati, papadum, saffron rice, vegetable curry, daal, raita, and an assortment of pickles and sauces.
| Pro Tip: Komala Vilas doesn’t accept reservations, so try to come before lunch or dinner hours to get a table here. |
The Malayan Council
Address: 22 Dunlop St, Singapore 209350
Contact Details: +6590097345
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00 am to 11:00 pm
The Malayan Council, a much-loved local restaurant that offers Western dishes infused with Singaporean influences, stands out as the ultimate destination in Little India for comforting culinary delights.
Notable menu items include a smoked duck lemak chilli padi pasta or a sarong platter of Singapore chilli lobster, complete with crispy fried mantou buns to soak up the sauce.
If you’re still feeling satisfied from your main meal, consider indulging in their delectable cakes, which draw inspiration from regional and local flavours such as durian and ondeh ondeh.
| Pro Tip: Portions here are good for sharing, so consider ordering just enough for you and your friends. |
Ananda Bhavan
Address: 58 Serangoon Rd, Singapore 217964
Contact Details: +6563965464
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 am to 10:00 pm
Dating back to 1924, Ananda Bhavan is one of Singapore’s oldest restaurants, and its legacy started when a Brahmin family introduced a traditional Indian vegetarian eatery along Selegie Road.
The original establishment continues to serve an array of flatbreads and curries, and it has now expanded with four additional branches, thanks to the efforts of the late MK Ramachandra, a second-generation owner and a renowned enthusiast of cats.
While the prata is a dependable choice, a crowd-favourite is the onion rava masala thosai, a crispy pancake enfolding potato curry and adorned with onions.
| Pro Tip: There are multiple branches of Ananda Bhavan in Little India alone, so if a certain branch is packed, you can move to the other outlets to find more tables. |
Where to Stay
The Great Madras
Address: 28 Madras St, Singapore 208422
Contact Details: +6569882364
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$$
The Great Madras is considered as Singapore’s version of Wes Anderson’s “The Grand Budapest Hotel”. It’s a vintage-inspired hostel that many avid backpackers stay at if they want to be closer to Little India.
This charming establishment, painted in pastel hues and adorned with tropical wallpapers, offers an abundance of Instagram-worthy moments in every corner, even within each generously sized cocoon.
The hotel features five distinct room categories, each beautifully decorated with retro furnishings and vibrant wallpaper. Opt for a lavish experience with a night in The Great Suite, featuring a study area and a circular bathtub, perfect for a soothing bubble bath.
| Pro Tip: There’s a cafe and a convenience store located on the first floor of the hostel in case you need a coffee break or purchase essentials during your stay. |
Perak Hotel
Address: 12 Perak Road, Singapore 208133
Contact Details: +6562997733
Check-In: 2:00 pm
Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $
If you’re looking for a staycation place or a hotel to crash that’s located within a stone’s throw away from most points of interest in Little India, then The Perak Hotel should be on your radar.
The hotel is conveniently located within a 4-minute walk from Rochor subway station and a 10-minute stroll from the shopping and dining options at Bugis Junction.
The comfortable rooms feature wooden flooring and are adorned with either Thai or Japanese-inspired accents. Guests can enjoy breakfast during their stay, and the hotel also provides a koi fish pond and a casual lounge in the lobby for added convenience.
| Pro Tip: The Perak Hotel offers family suites for larger groups. In case you need an extra cot, simply ask the front desk for assistance. |
The Vagabond Club
Address: 39 Syed Alwi Rd, Singapore 207630
Contact Details: +6562916677
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Designed by the acclaimed French designer Jacques Garcia, The Vagabond Club presents Parisian-inspired lodging within a well-preserved 1950 Art Deco heritage structure.
Each room is luxuriously appointed with furnishings and decor personally selected by Jacques Garcia, complemented by fine Diptyque Paris bathroom amenities. Some rooms feature shared courtyards, while suites offer living rooms and pull-out sofas.
For a remarkable experience, guests are encouraged to engage with the renowned Artist-in-Residence program, offering the opportunity to interact with some of the globe’s most brilliant creative talents.
| Pro Tip: There is no parking at The Vagabond Club. Instead, guests are encouraged to park at the nearest car park on Syed Alwi Road. |
Wanderlust by Ascott
Address: 2 Dickson Rd, Singapore 209494
Contact Details: +6563963322
Check-In: 3:00 pm
Check-Out: 12:00 pm
Pricing: $$
Located in a charming building in Art Deco style from the 1920s, Wanderlust seamlessly blends the allure of the past with contemporary conveniences in its 29 compact, yet chic rooms.
The well-appointed rooms exude a sleek and modern design, offering amenities such as work desks, flat-screen TVs, and refreshing rain showers. For added convenience, there are studios and lofts available that come equipped with kitchenette facilities.
Guests can also enjoy access to a contemporary lounge, an outdoor hot tub, and a stylish Sri Lankan restaurant. Guests also enjoy proximity to the trendy Jalan Besar enclave for an evening stroll or night out.
| Pro Tip: Wanderlust is completely cashless, so top-up your digital wallets and cards to pay for your stay and other amenities. |
Where to Shop
Mustafa Centre
Address: 145 Syed Alwi Rd, Mustafa Centre, Singapore 207704
Contact Details: +6562955855
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:30 am to 2:00 am, 9:30 am to 12:00 am
A Singaporean staple, Mustafa offers non-stop shopping in its extensive 75,000-square-foot space filled with budget-friendly goods. Shoppers can explore a wide range of items, including skincare, electronics, sportswear, and luggage.
You’ll find almost anything here from opulent sari fabrics on the lower level to beauty products on the ground floor, a supermarket offering fresh produce and flowers on the uppermost level, and an unexpected section for London mementoes.
If you need last-minute shopping or simply want to window shop, Mustafa Centre is surely a good place to start.
| Pro Tip: The walking areas inside Mustafa Centre are a bit narrow and can get stuffy when many people crowd a specific area. Make sure to keep your belongings close to you as you explore the massive shopping complex. |
Pottu Kara Maami
Address: 121A Serangoon Rd, Singapore 218026
Contact Details: +6569660675
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday, 12:30 am to 2:00 am, 9:30 am to 12:00 am
Pottu Kara Maami had humble beginnings as a home-based boutique and later established a presence in Little India. It’s where you can find one of the widest varieties of Indian sarees, which make for perfect souvenirs from Little India.
This boutique’s diverse range of choices spans from contemporary designs adorned with embroidery, sequins, and block prints to classic selections like Mangalagiri cotton sarees and Kanchipuram sarees.
Additionally, they have an online store with a convenient catalogue at your disposal. Their splendid collections ensure that you’ll have an abundance of options to choose from.
| Pro Tip: Pottu Kara Maami offers free shipping islandwide and to India for orders above $100! |
