Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighbourhoods. Known for its colourful streets, historic temples, bustling markets, and mouth-watering food, it’s a place where tradition meets modernity. Unlike the skyscraper-dominated cityscape of Singapore, Little India offers a refreshing change of pace, where life spills onto the sidewalks and the streets are filled with lively vendors, aromatic spices, and cultural charm.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Little India’s temples, attractions, food, and restaurants.
Things to Do in Little India
Little India is a sensory delight, offering a blend of history, culture, and vibrant street life. From markets buzzing with traders to hidden alleys adorned with street art, here’s a look at some of the best things to do in Little India.
1. Stroll Down Campbell Lane & Little India Arcade
Campbell Lane is one of the most iconic streets in Little India. This pedestrian-only street has vibrant shops selling textiles, traditional Indian garments, and decorative home items. Just around the corner, the Little India Arcade, a heritage shopping complex, offers an authentic experience with vendors selling handcrafted goods, Indian homoeopathy remedies, and intricate figurines.
2. Explore Tekka Centre
Tekka Centre is a bustling marketplace and a food haven all under one roof. The wet market offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, and spices, making it a great place for home cooks. Meanwhile, the hawker centre upstairs serves some of the best local dishes, including authentic Indian, Chinese, and Malay food. Don’t miss the famous biryani, prata, and thosai stalls.
3. Shop at Mustafa Centre
A true Singaporean icon, Mustafa Centre is a 24-hour shopping complex that sells almost everything, from electronics and jewellery to Indian textiles and spices. It’s the perfect place to grab souvenirs, daily essentials, or hard-to-find ingredients for Indian cooking. Be prepared for crowds, especially during weekends and festive seasons.
4. Visit the Indian Heritage Centre
This modern museum tells the story of Singapore’s Indian community through interactive displays, historical exhibits, and artefacts dating back to the 19th century. The centre offers a great way to learn about the struggles, traditions, and contributions of Indian migrants in Singapore. Guided tours and workshops are available for those who want a deeper understanding of the rich heritage.
5. Discover Hidden Back Alleys & Street Art
Unlike the usual city murals, the street art in Little India reflects the vibrant culture of the district. Stroll along Kerbau Road and Race Course Road, where you’ll find colourful murals depicting Indian heritage, folklore, and daily life. Many of these artworks are hidden in side alleys, so take your time exploring. These alleys also reveal an authentic side of the neighbourhood, where shop owners take breaks and daily life unfolds away from the main streets.
6. Experience a Traditional Henna Tattoo
Henna (mehndi) is an ancient Indian tradition, commonly applied during celebrations like weddings and festivals. In Little India, several street vendors and parlours offer intricate henna designs at affordable prices. It’s a fun and temporary way to immerse yourself in Indian culture.
7. Celebrate Deepavali and other Festivals
Little India is at its most magical during major Indian festivals when the streets light up with decorations, performances, and bustling night markets.
- Deepavali (Diwali): Known as the Festival of Lights, this celebration transforms Little India into a dazzling wonderland with colourful streetlights and vibrant bazaars.
- Thaipusam: A deeply spiritual festival where devotees carry elaborate kavadis in a procession from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple.
- Pongal: The Tamil harvest festival is celebrated with traditional music, street performances, and community activities.
Little India Temples
Little India is home to some of Singapore’s most historically significant and architecturally stunning temples. These places of worship not only serve as spiritual hubs for the local Indian community but also offer visitors a glimpse into Hindu and Indian-Muslim traditions. Whether you want to soak in the cultural heritage or witness vibrant religious festivals, these temples are must-visit landmarks in the neighbourhood.
- Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
One of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, dedicated to Goddess Kali. This beautifully intricate temple is a must-visit, especially during Deepavali and Thaipusam.
- Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple
A stunning Dravidian-style temple known for its towering gopuram (entrance tower) and as an important site for Thaipusam.
- Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman Temple
A lesser-known yet equally significant Hindu temple is dedicated to the Goddess Kali.
- Abdul Gafoor Mosque
A historical Indian-Muslim heritage site featuring beautiful Mughal and Victorian architecture.
Local Tip: Visit these temples in the morning for a peaceful experience, and remember to dress modestly as a sign of respect.
Where to Find the Best Food in Little India
Little India is a paradise for food lovers, offering a mix of traditional South and North Indian cuisine and local Singaporean-Indian specialities. From casual hawker stalls to well-established restaurants, the district caters to every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving aromatic biryani, crispy dosas, or sweet Indian treats, here’s where you can find the best food in Little India.
- Azmi Restaurant – Also known as Azmi Chapati, this humble yet legendary eatery is famous for its freshly made chapatis. Unlike roti prata, chapatis are not fried in oil, making them a lighter, healthier alternative. Pair them with their signature keema (minced meat curry), chickpeas, and vegetable dishes for a traditional North Indian meal. The open-air sidewalk dining experience enhances the authentic charm of this spot. Serves freshly made chapatis that are dry-fried, giving them a smoky flavour.
- Allauddin’s Briyani (Tekka Centre): One of the most famous biryani spots in Little India, Allauddin’s Briyani is beloved for its rich, aromatic basmati rice, slow-cooked with an infusion of saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and bay leaves. Served with a choice of tender chicken, mutton, or fish, the dish is complemented by the side of raita (yoghurt-based condiment) and a hard-boiled egg.
- Komala Vilas: One of Singapore’s most iconic South Indian vegetarian restaurants, Komala Vilas has been serving authentic thali sets and dosas since 1947. Their thali meals offer a variety of small, flavorful dishes served on a traditional banana leaf, featuring rice, sambar, rasam, curd, pickles, and vegetable curries. The dosas here are crisp and golden, stuffed with delicious fillings like spiced potatoes or paneer, and served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Moghul Sweet Shop: Moghul Sweet Shop offers an extensive selection of traditional Indian sweets such as gulab jamun, jalebi, barfi, laddu, and peda. Their jalebi, fried to crisp perfection and soaked in saffron-infused syrup, is a crowd favourite, while their gulab jamun, soft and syrupy, melts in the mouth. Moghul Sweet Shop is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the richness of Indian desserts in Singapore.
- Jaggi’s Northern Indian Cuisine: A go-to destination for those craving authentic Punjabi flavours, Jaggi’s is well known for its rich, creamy butter chicken cooked in a fragrant tomato-based sauce with a perfect balance of spice and creaminess. The restaurant also serves freshly made naan, tandoori kebabs, and a selection of hearty North Indian vegetarian dishes such as palak paneer and dal makhani. Their masala chai, brewed with aromatic Indian spices, is a must-try, offering a warm, comforting end to your meal.
Local Tip: Visit spice shops in Little India to take home authentic masala blends, curry powders, and fresh herbs for home cooking.
Top Restaurants in Little India
Little India is home to some of the finest Indian restaurants in Singapore, serving a diverse range of traditional and contemporary dishes from various regions of India.
- The Banana Leaf Apolo: Known for its legendary fish head curry, a dish that perfectly balances tangy, spicy, and savoury flavours. The restaurant is also celebrated for its tandoori meats, marinated in a blend of spices and yoghurt before being grilled in a traditional clay oven, resulting in smoky, tender perfection. Seafood lovers will appreciate their masala prawns, crab curry, and butter garlic fish, all of which showcase the bold, robust flavours of South Indian cuisine. True to its name, meals here are traditionally served on banana leaves, adding an authentic touch to the dining experience.
- Muthu’s Curry: A culinary institution in Little India, Muthu’s Curry is best known for its South Indian-style fish head curry. The curry uses a secret blend of spices, tamarind, and coconut milk, creating a bold and tangy flavour that perfectly complements the tender fish. Muthu’s Curry also serves a wide selection of masala dishes, including mutton masala, chicken masala, and prawn masala. The restaurant prides itself on delivering authentic Chettinad-style cuisine, known for its spice-laden dishes and depth of flavour.
- Ananda Bhavan: Established in 1924, Ananda Bhavan is one of Singapore’s oldest vegetarian Indian restaurants. The restaurant is famed for its dosa, idli, and chaat, offering various crispy and soft dosa options paired with flavorful chutneys and sambar. Their chaat selection includes pani puri, bhel puri, and samosa chaat, bringing India’s bold and tangy street food flavours to Singapore. The restaurant maintains a traditional yet casual setting, making it a great place for a quick meal or a relaxed dining experience.
- Madras New Woodlands: Known for serving an affordable and filling South Indian thali. Their thali sets feature an assortment of vegetable curries, chapatis, lentils, and rice, offering a balanced and nutritious meal. Patrons particularly love their paper-thin dosas and the flavorful sambar that accompanies them. With its casual and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant is a top choice for those looking to experience a traditional South Indian meal without breaking the bank.
- Sakunthala’s Restaurant: Offering a unique blend of Indian and Chinese fusion cuisine, Sakunthala’s is well-known for its signature biryani and seafood dishes. Their biryani, rich in aromatic spices and slow-cooked to perfection, is a must-try for anyone craving hearty Indian flavours. Their black pepper crab and butter prawns also showcase a seamless fusion of Indian spices with Chinese cooking techniques.
- Gokul Vegetarian: This restaurant offers extensive vegetarian and vegan Indian delicacies that do not contain onions or garlic, catering to religious dietary preferences. The restaurant is famous for its mock meat curries, rich dal tadka, and flavorful vegetable biryanis, all crafted with traditional Indian spices. Their naan and North Indian gravies are particularly well loved, providing a satisfying meat-free alternative without compromising taste. Gokul is a great option for those looking to enjoy authentic Indian flavours in a completely vegetarian-friendly setting.
Getting Around Little India
Getting around Little India is convenient and enjoyable, whether exploring on foot or using Singapore’s efficient public transport system. The neighbourhood is designed to be pedestrian-friendly, with vibrant streets, hidden alleys, and bustling markets that offer an immersive experience. Below are key transport options and practical tips to enhance your visit.
MRT Access: Little India is well connected by Singapore’s MRT network. The Little India MRT Station (DT12/NE7) on the Downtown and North-East Lines provides easy access to the heart of the neighbourhood. Additionally, Farrer Park MRT (NE8) is within walking distance and serves the northern part of Little India.
Bus and Taxi Services: Several bus routes pass through Little India, making travel to different parts of Singapore easy. Major stops include Serangoon Road, Race Course Road, and Bukit Timah Road. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available, though traffic congestion may be an issue during peak hours and festival seasons.
Parking Options: Parking in Little India can be challenging due to its narrow streets and heavy foot traffic. However, you can find parking facilities at Mustafa Centre, Tekka Centre, and nearby HDB car parks. If you’re driving, it’s best to visit early in the morning or late at night when traffic is lighter.
How to Get to Aemorph from Little India
Aemorph is located at LEAGOO Pte Ltd, 34 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058668, and getting there from Little India is quick and convenient.
By MRT (Approx. 15–20 minutes):
From Little India MRT Station (NE7/DT12), take the Downtown Line towards Expo and alight at Chinatown MRT Station (DT19). Transfer to the North East Line, go one stop to Clarke Quay MRT (NE5), then walk 5 minutes to 34 South Bridge Road.
By Taxi or Ride Hailing (Approx. 10–15 minutes):
Grab or taxi rides from Little India to South Bridge Road typically take under 15 minutes, depending on traffic. Just enter “34 South Bridge Road” in your app.
Plan Your Visit to Little India
Little India is best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for vibrant sights, sounds, and scents. Weekends are livelier with cultural events and larger crowds, while weekdays offer a slower pace for exploring temples, shops, and eateries. Don’t forget to bring some cash—many small vendors and food stalls prefer it over cards.
Check for festivals like Deepavali or Thaipusam, when the area becomes especially colourful and full of activity. For a more immersive experience, join a walking tour or download a heritage trail map to explore key cultural landmarks.
Cultural Etiquette & Temple Visits
- Dress Modestly: When visiting temples like Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple or Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Remove Your Shoes: Remove your shoes before entering Hindu temples and mosques as a sign of respect.
- Photography Restrictions: Some temples may have restrictions on photography inside the premises, so always check before taking pictures.
