There's a reason why Little India in Singapore has earned a rep as a hip 'hood. We explore the best restaurants, boutique hotels and things to do in Little India.
Little India is Singapore’s go-to neighbourhood for South Indian food: fish head curry eaten off banana leaves, masala dosai folded around spiced potato, and biryani by the plateful, mostly within a few minutes’ walk of Serangoon Road. Besides food, a few colourful blocks pack in spice and flower stalls, saree specialists, century-old Hindu temples and some of the best jewellery shops. Along with the gleaming Deepavali, there’s plenty to see and do in Singapore’s Little India. Here’s where to eat, what to buy and what to see.
Why trust this guide
Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, and knowing where to eat, shop and explore can make all the difference. Our guide brings together a curated selection of restaurants, cafes, shops, hotels and cultural attractions. We’ve drawn on our knowledge to highlight places worth adding to your itinerary, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the neighbourhood.
Little India at a glance
- Best South Indian feast: The Banana Leaf Apolo
- Best vegetarian food spot: Ananda Bhavan
- Best splurge curry: Muthu’s Curry
- Best hawker fix: Tekka Centre
- Best things to see: Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Indian Heritage Centre, the house of Tan Teng Niah
Where are the best restaurants in Little India, Singapore?
The best-known restaurants are The Banana Leaf Apolo and Muthu’s Curry on Race Course Road for fish head curry, Komala Vilas on Serangoon Road for vegetarian dosai, and the biryani stalls inside Tekka Centre.
1. The Banana Leaf Apolo
A hotspot for Indian cuisine lovers, this long-standing institution has been doling out its food on banana leaves for over 40 years. It offers a mix of North and South Indian fare. Think tandoori chicken, fried fish and mutton masala. But we’re positive most patrons come for the signature fish head curry, which packs a punch. We certainly do!
Best for: Fish head curry and North and South Indian classics
Must-try items: Fish head curry; mutton briyani; naan platter; tandoori chicken
How much: Starters from $8.30; tandoori dishes from $17.90; vegetable dishes from $13; rice dishes from $5.40; chicken dishes from $7.80; seafood dishes from $8.30
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 10.30pm
Address: 54 Race Course Road, Singapore 218564
2. Muthu’s Curry
Savour eye-watering, lip-tingling spicy fare at this longstanding restaurant in Little India. It’s known for doling out one of Singapore’s favourite delicacies: fish head curry. Need less spicy options that won’t leave you sweating? Muthu’s Curry also serves a range of tamer, flavour-packed Indian fare, from North to South Indian. Plus plenty of vegetarian dishes to go with it.
Best for: Spicy South Indian fare
Must-try items: Fish head curry; lamb rack ananas; palak paneer; chicken tikka; butter chicken; moru moru vendakkai
How much: Starters from $9; chicken dishes from $17; seafood dishes from $12; mutton dishes from $19; vegetable dishes from $13; rice dishes from $4.50; kebabs from $17; breads from $4; sides from $3; drinks from $5
Opening hours: Daily, 10.30am to 10.30pm
Address: #01-01, 138 Race Course Road, Singapore 218591
3. Sakunthala’s
If you’re craving scrumptious Indian fare, Sakunthala’s will charm you with every bite. The menu is packed with North and South Indian cuisine, plus Chinese dishes. Yes, plenty to appease fussy eaters. Try the biryani, tandoori platter, masala chicken, prawn masala and fish head curry. Then, cool down from all the spices with a refreshing glass of lime juice. Bring the whole family along because, trust us, you’ll have a lot to taste before you leave.
Best for: Family-friendly Indian dining
Must-try items: Biryani; tandoori platter; masala chicken; prawn masala
How much: Prices vary across each outlet
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10.30pm (Race Course Road and Dunlop) and 11am to 1am (Syed Alwi Road)
Address: Multiple locations including Race Course Road and Syed Alwi Road
4. MTR Mavalli Tiffin Rooms
Serving Karnataka cuisine for over nine decades, MTR Mavalli Tiffin Rooms is the numero uno South Indian restaurant for a quick snack or light meal. We recommend you tuck into a plate of steamed rice cakes (idli) or savoury onion pancakes (onion uthapam). Or opt for the hearty dosa set if you’re feeling peckish.
Best for: Traditional Karnataka-style vegetarian food and tiffin favourites
Must-try items: Set dosa; tomato rice; maddur vada; shavige bhath; white uppit; pulliogre
How much: Idlis from $3; dosas from $6; rice dishes from $6; snacks from $3.50; desserts from $4; drinks from $2
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Thursdays, 8.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 9.30pm and Fridays to Sundays, 8.30am to 3.30pm & 5.30pm to 10pm
Address: 438 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218134
Visit MTR Mavalli Tiffin Rooms
5. Indian Express
Need some spice? Drop by Indian Express. It’s Michelin-starred Song of India’s second concept space. Meat eaters, go all in with the tandoori mix grill platter topped with a big fat lamb chop, fish, chicken tikka, kebabs and a bowl of lip-smacking mint chutney. Going with a vegetarian friend? Be sure to order the masala chaat fries or the Punjabi samosas and double down on Indian street food.
Best for: Indian street food and hearty North Indian dishes
Must-try items: Chilli cheese naan; gobhi 65; butter paneer masala; chicken tikka jalfrezi; lamb shank biryani
How much: Breads and rice from $3.50; soups from $7; chaats from $6; biryanis from $12.90; vegetarian starters from $6; non-vegetarian starters from $10; mains from $9; desserts from $4; drinks from $8
Opening hours: Weekdays, 11.30am to 12am and weekends, 10.30am to 12am
Address: 38 Race Course Road, Singapore 218555
6. Ananda Bhavan
This no-frills vegetarian Indian restaurant in Singapore has been around since 1924. If you’re looking to fuel up on a pocket-friendly, calorie-heavy brekkie, treat yourself to the uthappam in several flavours. The fermented rice batter pancake is a popular Kerala dish. It’s loved for its soft fluffy centre and crispy edges. While Ananda Bhavan has several outlets, we recommend you visit the original one at the entrance of Little India.
Best for: Affordable vegetarian South Indian breakfasts and thosai
Must-try items: Uthappam; masala dosai; thosai
How much: South Indian specials from $2.20; breads from $3.90; rice dishes from $4.50; rava thosai from $5; tiffin from $2.80; thosai from $4.50; chaat from $6.90; snacks from $1.90; sweets from $1.80; drinks from $2.20
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am to 10pm (58 Serangoon Road), 7am to 10pm (Buffalo Road) and 7.30am to 11pm (Syed Alwi Road); Thursdays to Tuesdays, 8am to 10pm (448 Serangoon Road)
Address: Multiple locations including Syed Alwi Road and Serangoon Road
7. Madras New Woodlands
This South Indian restaurant has a vegetarian VIP thali meal fit for a king. Thali is a selection of vegetables and curries in mini metal pots served on a large platter. We’d recommend sharing with a friend unless you don’t mind the food coma that comes after. You can also find a selection of great vegetarian delights like appam, dosas, and mushroom manchurian. Wash it all down with a satisfying cup of masala chai.
Best for: Vegetarian South Indian thali and tiffin meals
Must-try items: VIP thali; appam; dosa; mushroom manchurian
How much: Special meals from $10.90; mini set meals from $7.20; chaats from $6.90; a la carte from $3; light tiffins from $3.90; snacks from $3.50; sweets from $1.90; drinks from $2
Opening hours: Daily, 7.30am to 10pm
Address: 14 Upper Dickson Road, Singapore 207474
8. Azmi Restaurant
Craving chapati (unleavened flatbread)? Hit up Azmi Restaurant in Little India. This eatery has been whipping out heavenly rotis for over 30 years. There are various dips and curries you can have ‘em with. But the mutton keema (curried minced mutton with peas) and chapati combo is simply divine. Vegetarians can opt for channa masala (curried chickpeas), which also packs a punch.
Best for: Chapati and traditional North Indian curries
Must-try items: Chapati with mutton keema; channa masala
How much: Mutton dishes from $4; chicken and fish dishes at $4; vegetarian dishes from $2
Opening hours: Daily, 8.10am to 10.50pm
Address: 168 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218051
9. Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
As its name suggests, Anjappar is synonymous with Chettinad cuisine (a region of the Tamil Nadu state in India). Never had it? Brace yourself for a multitude of spices and special Chettinad masala. Must-try dishes include mutton sukka varuval (a dry and spicy mutton dish), fish fry (fried fish marinated with special spices) and sura puttu (shredded shark meat with eggs and veggies).
Best for: Fiery Chettinad cuisine and traditional Tamil Nadu dishes
Must-try items: Mutton sukka varuval; sura puttu
How much: Set meals from $12; house specials from $5.80; appetisers from $9.90; breads from $4.20; soups from $5.60; tandoori skewers from $14.50; biryanis from $9.90; curries from $17; vegetarian dishes from $11; desserts from $4.50; drinks from $4
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 11pm
Address: 76-78 Race Course Road, Singapore 218575
Visit Anjappar Chettinad Restaurant
10. Khansama Tandoori Restaurant
For unbelievably tasty North Indian cuisine, Khansama does it best. We’re talking piping-hot servings of veggie samosas, aloo palak, chicken tikka masala and spicy curries. Wash it down with a cold bottle of beer and that’s dinner sorted. The cheese naan is a definite winner – think of it as a slice of cheesy heaven on a plate!
Best for: North Indian curries and tandoori specialities
Must-try items: Cheese naan
How much: A la carte from $2
Opening hours: Daily, 10am to 1am
Address: 166 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218050
Visit Khansama Tandoori Restaurant
11. Podi & Poriyal
This establishment in Little India is all about showcasing South India’s cuisine in Singapore. Podi & Poriyal serves dishes not typically present on our island; diners can expect small and large sharing plates that are good for up to four people. Enjoy steamed lentil balls, dosai and grilled zucchini in peanut gravy before moving on to delicious sweet treats.
Best for: Contemporary South Indian cuisine and sharing plates
Must-try items: Steamed lentil balls; dosai; grilled zucchini in peanut gravy
How much: Set menus from $46; small plates from $12; large plates from $28; desserts from $14; drinks from $5
Opening hours: Wednesdays to Mondays, 11am to 10.30pm
Address: 486 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218151
12. Tekka Centre
A wet market, food centre and shopping complex in one, Tekka Centre is the go-to for your Indian cuisine fix. Specialities include biryani (spicy rice dish served with chicken or mutton gravy) from Hanifa’s or Allauddin. Or Indian rojak (a salad of fried dough fritters, boiled potatoes, cuttlefish, hard-boiled eggs and more) from Temasek Indian Rojak. Finish your meal with a glass of teh tarik (frothy hot milk tea) from any of the drink stalls!
Best for: Affordable hawker food, biryani and Indian rojak
Must-try items: Chicken biryani; Indian rojak; teh tarik
How much: Prices vary with each stall
Opening hours: Timings vary with each stall
Address: 665 Buffalo Road, Singapore 210665
13. Machan’s Kitchen
With authentic Tamil cuisine in a contemporary cafe setting, Machan’s Kitchen teleports you to different parts of Tamil Nadu (a state in South India). Our faves include servings of nandu rasam (crab soup) and mutton kola urundai (fried mutton kheema balls made with a secret recipe). Plus sides of kalaki (an egg dish famous in Madurai state) and meen poondu kolambu (home-style fish curry). Wash all that spice down with a refreshing cup of neer moru (spiced buttermilk)!
Best for: Traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine and regional specialities
Must-try items: Nellai chilli chicken; kottai mutton chukka; chutney fish roast; karaikudi egg masala; betel leaf garlic rice; kadai paneer
How much: Soups from $6.40; vegetarian starters from $6; non-vegetarian starters from $4.30; mains from $7; breads from $5; desserts from $5.60; drinks from $2
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: 34 & 36 Race Course Road, Singapore 218574
14. Kunthaville
Who says you can only get Indian food in this enclave? Kunthaville offers a taste of Sri Lanka’s vegan style, right here in Singapore. Start your meal with a plate of spicy beetroot cutlets and jackfruit rolls before tucking into curry leaf coconut rice. The dish comes with dry jackfruit curry, sauteed small green beans, raw mango and cucumber chambal. Sip on Ceylon tea for a truly authentic dining experience.
Best for: Sri Lankan vegan cuisine and plant-based curries
Must-try items: Beetroot cutlets; jackfruit rolls; curry leaf coconut rice
How much: Daily specials from $10; appam corner at $5; mains from $6; curries from $8; mini tiffins at $15; snacks from $7; desserts from $8; drinks from $5
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10pm
Address: 18 Veerasamy Road, Singapore 207326
Where should you go for coffee and cafes in Little India?
For coffee and cafes, head to Old Hen Coffee Bar for specialty brews and Brunches Cafe for all-day breakfast and vintage-inspired interiors.
15. Three’s a Crowd
It can get pretty hot out during the afternoons in Singapore. But that’s nothing a scoop of ice cream can’t fix! Three’s a Crowd is an adorable ice cream cafe serving up warm waffles, ice cream, and other snacks. You can get best-selling flavours like espresso, berries cheesecake, and masala on the menu. Or go for vegan faves like coconut, grapefruit and berry, or kaya and speculoos. You’ve also got the option of savouring dishes like chicken and waffles or chicken lasagna.
Best for: Waffles, creative gelato flavours and sweet treats
Must-try flavours: Berries cheesecake; grapefruit and berry; kaya and speculoos
How much: Gelato from $4.50; waffles from $6; bakes from $4.80; drinks from $4
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 10.30pm
Address: 50 Race Course Road, Singapore 218562
16. Brunches Cafe
Struggle to get up for breakfast? This cafe is for you. It serves a mean all-day breakfast in Little India featuring brioche French toast and a deluxe Spanish omelette. Dying for a change of setting? Just make a reservation for affordable high-tea sets. Vintage furniture collections are available around the cafe and you can even purchase those with a price tag. The highlight here has to be its vintage Mini Cooper repurposed as a four-seater sofa set.
Best for: All-day breakfast, high tea and vintage-inspired interiors
Must-try items: Brioche French toast; Spanish omelette; frutti di mare pasta
How much: High tea set at $44.90; all-day breakfast from $10.90; starters and sides from $9.90; mains from $18.90; desserts from $4.90; drinks from $4
Opening hours: Mondays, Wednesdays to Fridays, 11am to 10pm and Fridays to Sundays, 10am to 10pm
Address: 96 Rangoon Road, Singapore 218381
17. Old Chang Kee Cafe
We love a curry puff from Old Chang Kee. It even opened a flagship outlet at its original location where it all began 60 years ago. Nestled along Mackenzie Road, the cafe can be easily spotted from afar. That’s thanks to a giant curry puff planted right outside the store. Reminisce the glory days with star dishes like flower bread served with lip-smacking chicken curry. Or go for local delights like nasi lemak with blue pea rice.
Best for: Nostalgic local comfort food and curry puff-inspired creations
Must-try items: Flower bread with curry chicken; dry curry chicken with rice; crispy fish with seaweed sauce and rice
How much: Toast sets from $1.80; a la carte from $5.50; waffles from $2.50; drinks from $2.40
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 8pm
Address: #01-01, Coffee House @ Rex, 19/21/23 Mackenzie Road, Singapore 228678
18. Old Hen Coffee
If there’s anything that can make us stray from our usual order of lattes, it’s Old Hen’s bottled cold brews. Just pop them open and savour the chilled caffeinated goodness in either smooth black or creamy white. Feeling a little er… peckish (pun intended)? Old Hen’s brownie affogato should satiate you quite nicely.
Best for: Bottled cold brews, brunch and hearty cafe fare
Must-try items: Spiced apple cinnamon pancakes; avocado on toast; breakfast plate
How much: Weekday lunch set from $20; weekend breakfast set from $13.90; breakfast from $10; desserts from $8.50; drinks from $6.50
Opening hours: Daily, 9.30am to 5pm
Address: 127 Owen Road, Singapore 218931
19. The Malayan Council
Planning on hitting a cafe more for food than coffee? The Malayan Council offers some truly eclectic menu items featuring local twists. Tuck into hearty mains like roti kirai beef ribs or the perennial favourite, asam pedas seafood aglio. For dessert, choose from the cafe’s wide selection of cakes. We recommend the classic ondeh ondeh cake with a rich coconut cream.
Best for: Modern fusion dishes and local-inspired desserts
Must-try items: Roti kirai beef ribs; asam pedas seafood aglio; ondeh ondeh cake
How much: Starters from $16; mains from $34; a la carte from $18; desserts from $11.80; drinks from $6
Opening hours: Daily, 11am to 11pm
Address: 22 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209350
20. Soul Brew
Tucked away within Holiday Inn Singapore Little India, Soul Brew offers a peaceful hideaway from the hustle and bustle. Conveniently located directly above Farrer Park MRT station, it’s accessible to both hotel guests and the public, so drop by for a dose of healthy cold-pressed juices, a cup of joe or a relaxing tea session.
If you’re feeling peckish, there’s a range of salad bowls and delicious sandwiches – the latter includes unmissable flavours like tandoori sandwich and chilli cheese toast. On the hunt for desserts? Opt for its cake selection to satisfy your sweet tooth. And if you’re in a hurry, grab and go sets are available too. At just $10, you’ll get a cup of coffee with your choice of croissant or muffin.
Best for: Coffee, cold-pressed juices and healthy light bites
Must-try items: Tandoori sandwich; chilli cheese toast
How much: All-day breakfast from $3; mains from $16; salads and sides from $10; handheld & street food and desserts from $6; drinks from $4.50
Opening hours: Daily, 7am to 9pm
Address: Lobby, Holiday Inn Singapore Little India, 10 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217564
Where should you shop and stay in Little India?
21. Moghul Sweet Shop
Fair warning if you have a sweet tooth! This sweet shop at Little India Arcade is probably the Indian version of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. It serves a variety of authentic North Indian sweets including gulab jamun, motichoor ladoo, and dodah burfis, just to name a few. It’s a grab ‘n go kinda spot so you can take away all you want. Best to go during off-peak hours (especially before or after the lunch crowd) to avoid snaking queues. Oh, and don’t leave without ordering a samosa. It’ll blow your mind.
Best for: Traditional North Indian sweets and takeaway treats
How much: From $2.50
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm
Address: #01-16, Little India Arcade, 48 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217959
22. Loop Garms
Vintage clothes? So adorable! This concept started as a hobby for the founders before they decided to take the leap and open this vibey store. Pop in and browse through a curated collection of threads you never thought you needed like graphic tees, sports jackets, and plaid shirts. Keep your eyes peeled for special edition stuff too.
Best for: Vintage streetwear, graphic tees and second-hand fashion
How much: Items from $15
Opening hours: Daily, 12.30pm to 7.30pm
Address: #01-148, 635 Veerasamy Road, Singapore 200635
23. Little India Arcade
Take a walk around this bustling shopping destination to pick up souvenirs such as beautiful silk saris, handicrafts and dazzling jewellery.
Best for: Indian handicrafts, silk saris, jewellery and souvenirs
Opening hours: Daily, 9am to 10pm
Address: 48 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217959
24. Jothi Store and Flower Shop
Located at the very heart of Serangoon Road, this isn’t just your regular corner store. Named after the owner’s first daughter, Jothi is the go-to shop for the countless needs of its community. It supplies staples like rice, medicine, and other household necessities. It even sells prayer items, and you’ll see garlands of fresh flowers for sale too.
Best for: Fresh flower garlands, prayer items and traditional Indian essentials
Opening hours: Daily, 9.30am to 9.30pm
Address: 1 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209882
Visit Jothi Store and Flower Shop
25. Haniffa Textiles
Looking for a saree to suit any occasion? Ask any local and all fingers will point to Haniffa Textiles. You’ll find a treasure trove of sarees in various colours, designs, patterns, materials and price ranges to suit all your needs.
Best for: Sarees, Indian textiles and traditional occasion wear
Opening hours: Weekdays, 10.30am to 10pm and weekends, 10.30am to 10.30pm
Address: Multiple locations including Serangoon Road and Dunlop Street
26. Mustafa Centre
Think about shopping in Little India and one iconic name springs to mind: Mustafa Centre. This shopping behemoth sells just about anything. From affordable electronics to baked pastries and snacks, this is a paradise for bargain-hunters and hardened shopaholics.
Best for: Round-the-clock bargain shopping, electronics, groceries and everyday essentials
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours
Address: 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207704
27. Pottu Kara Maami
Founded in Singapore by two sisters, Pottu Kara Maami is a saree haven for anyone seeking something out of the ordinary. Slip into chic with a range of modern silhouettes. That includes embroidered sarees, sequin sarees and block print sarees. Or opt for traditional pieces like mangalagiri cotton sarees and kanchipuram sarees. That’s your Deepavali shopping sorted.
Best for: Contemporary and traditional Indian sarees
How much: From $20
Opening hours: Mondays to Saturdays, 12pm to 9pm and Sundays, 12pm to 7pm
Address: 121A Serangoon Road, Singapore 218026
28. The Vagabond Club
Three words: Parisian swank factor. The Vagabond Club knocked the boutique hotel game out of the park when it opened. For starters, each of the 41 rooms is super swish. Think boudoir chic havens of tranquillity. To help you scratch your arty itch, look out for any events that pop up. Vibe out to jazz music and sip on whiskey for the ultimate experience.
Best for: Boutique luxury stays, art-inspired interiors and a stylish bar experience
Key amenities: On-site restaurant and bar; club lounge
Address: 39 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore, 207630
30. One Farrer Hotel
The leading five-star urban hotel features an award-winning collection of over 700 pieces of original contemporary abstract art. The “hotels within a hotel” concept allows you to select chic rooms with varying styles – from loft-style apartments to a sophisticated penthouse and luxurious villas. Now, this is what we call value for your buck. While you’re there, check out Escape Restaurant. Enjoy poolside meals and take your pick from mouthwatering grilled mains like burgers and steaks to artisanal desserts.
Best for: Luxury staycations, contemporary art and resort-style amenities
Key amenities: Swimming pool; 24-hour gym; conference centre
Address: 1 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217562
31. Wanderlust by The Unlimited Collection
Wanderlust was one of the pioneers of cutting-edge boutique hotels in Singapore, breathing life into the city’s ‘themed hotels’ scene. It blends old-world charm with contemporary style. All rooms and suites are decked in sleek natural finishes and smart textural overlays. Our pick? The Studio Loft, which comes with a cosy kitchenette and workspace.
Best for: Design-led boutique stays, quirky interiors and cosy loft-style rooms.
Key amenities: Outdoor dipping pool; launderette
Address: 2 Dickson Road, Singapore 209494
Visit Wanderlust by The Unlimited Collection
32. Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon
If you’ve got a weakness for luxury staycays, Hilton’s first Garden Inn in Singapore may be your new go-to sanctuary. The 328-room hotel features 10 room categories. Top-tier ones like the King Deluxe rooms offer varying views of the old race course or neighbouring shophouses. No matter which room you pick, one thing’s for sure. You’re guaranteed plush furnishings like ultra-luxurious beds, bay window seating areas and large HDTVs.
Best for: Comfortable city stays, family-friendly accommodation and convenient access to Little India’s attractions
Key amenities: Outdoor pool; on-site restaurant
Address: 3 Belilios Road, Singapore 219924
Visit Hilton Garden Inn Singapore Serangoon
What are the best things to do in Little India?
Top things to do in Little India are visiting Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, the Indian Heritage Centre, Abdul Gafoor Mosque and photographing the rainbow-coloured House of Tan Teng Niah (37 Kerbau Road), the last Chinese villa in the area.
33. Get henna art done
We know henna is typically done as a wedding custom, but it isn’t rare to see it done just for fun. Henna has grown into its own art form. We’ve even seen people getting henna done even beyond Deepavali! If you haven’t been able to catch pop-up henna artists who make appearances at art fairs, swing by Little India. It won’t take long for you to find a little beauty shop that’s happy to do henna art for you in a snap.
34. The former house of Tan Teng Niah
Wondering what to see in Little India Singapore? Sitting along Kerbau Road and Buffalo Road, the last surviving Chinese villa in Little India is hard to miss. Be sure to take a closer look at it. You’ll find this cultural monument has a mix of southern Chinese and European influences. Including a bamboo tiled roof! But the vibrant medley of colours is what attracts hordes of tourists to get the perfect shot.
How much: Free admission
Opening hours: Daily, 24 hours (temporarily closed)
Address: 37 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219168
Visit the former house of Tan Teng Niah
35. Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu Temple
Dedicated to Kali, the Hindu Goddess of power, this grand, intricately designed temple has a South Indian architectural style and was established in 1855. That makes it one of the oldest religious sites in Singapore.
How much: Free admission
Opening hours: Daily, 5.30am to 12pm & 5pm to 9pm
Address: 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042
Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Hindu Temple
36. Indian Heritage Centre
The galleries within this ultra-modern museum are chronologically arranged and span the period from 1st century CE to the 21st century. Here, visitors can learn about the historical links between the Indian sub-continent and Southeast Asia. As well as the experiences of South Asians in Southeast Asia.
How much: Free admission for Singaporeans and permanent residents; from $8 for tourists and foreign residents
Opening hours: Tuesdays to Sundays, 10am to 6pm
Address: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
37. Abdul Gafoor Mosque
You’ll be amazed by the architecture of Abdul Gafoor Mosque. It features Arabian, Indian and Renaissance influences. The green and yellow monument houses a sundial in the middle of the mosque with 25 rays, decorated with Arabic calligraphy.
How much: Free admission
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays & weekends, 10am to 12pm & 2pm to 4pm
Address: 41 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209369
38. The Temple Of Thousand Lights
Also known as Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, its focal point is the 15-foot seated Buddha surrounded by numerous lightbulbs. There’s also a statue of the sleeping Buddha in a room below the main temple hall.
How much: Free admission
Opening hours: Daily, 8am to 4.30pm
Address: 366 Race Course Road, Singapore 218638
Visit The Temple Of Thousand Lights
39. Hunt for murals and wall art
Still wondering what to do in Little India? To add to its beauty, the neighbourhood doesn’t shy away from beautiful murals by local artists. You’ll thoroughly enjoy scouting for these beauties on your street art tour.
There’s so much to do in Little India – from eating at the best restaurants to shopping up a storm. Time to get exploring!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Little India in Singapore known for?
Little India is one of Singapore’s most vibrant cultural districts, known for its colourful streets, Indian heritage, temples, and authentic food. It’s a hotspot for experiencing traditional Indian culture, street shopping, and local cuisine all in one place.
What are the best things to do in Little India Singapore?
Some of the best things to do in Little India Singapore include exploring Serangoon Road, visiting Tekka Centre, shopping at Mustafa Centre, and discovering temples and street art. The area offers a mix of culture, food, and shopping experiences.
What are the must-try foods in Little India Singapore?
Little India is famous for dishes like biryani, masala dosa, roti prata, pani puri, and fish head curry. Many of these dishes reflect a unique Singaporean twist on traditional Indian flavours.
Where can I find the best food in Little India?
Some of the best food in Little India can be found at Tekka Centre for hawker-style meals, as well as popular restaurants like Banana Leaf Apolo, Komala Villas, and Khansama Tandoori. These spots are known for authentic Indian cuisine and local favourites.
Is Little India Singapore good for breakfast?
Yes, Little India is a great place for breakfast, especially for Indian options like prata, dosa, and teh tarik. Hawker centres and casual eateries open early, making it ideal for a local-style breakfast experience.
What can you buy in Little India Singapore?
You can buy everything from traditional Indian clothing and jewellery to spices, snacks, and souvenirs. It’s one of the best places in Singapore for culturally rich shopping experiences.
Where should you stay in Little India?
Boutique stays in Little India include One Farrer Hotel and Wanderlust Hotel on Dickson Road; Hilton Garden Inn Serangoon is the larger option.
What should I not miss in Little India Singapore?
Don’t miss Tekka Centre, Mustafa Centre, the colourful shophouses, and iconic Indian eateries. Exploring the streets and trying local food is a key part of the experience.
How much time do you need to explore Little India?
You’ll typically need around four to six hours to explore Little India comfortably, including time for food, shopping, and sightseeing. Longer if you’re shopping seriously at Mustafa Centre.
How do you get to Little India?
Little India MRT station sits in the middle of the neighbourhood on the North East and Downtown lines, and the area is compact and walkable from there.
