Thaipusam in Singapore: From milk pots to towering kavadis and a four-kilometre procession, here’s what to expect at this Hindu festival in 2026.
If you’ve ever wandered through the neighbourhood of Little India in January or February and spotted devotees carrying towering, flower-laden structures or pots of milk, you’ve witnessed Thaipusam in Singapore. Taking place on Sunday, 1 February 2026, this vibrant Hindu festival draws thousands of devotees and curious onlookers every year, making it one of the most visually striking religious celebrations on our calendar. New to Thaipusam? Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what it’s all about.
When is Thaipusam 2026 in Singapore?
Thaipusam falls on 1 February 2026, and devotees embark on a four-kilometre procession from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple along Serangoon Road to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple on Tank Road. The journey unfolds to the rhythm of live traditional music, with devotees carrying offerings, piercing their skin, and bearing kavadis as acts of devotion and thanksgiving.
What is Thaipusam?
At its heart, Thaipusam is a festival of gratitude. Devotees honour Lord Murugan, giving thanks for answered prayers and fulfilled vows. Preparation begins about a month before the festival, with worshippers observing a strict vegetarian diet, fasting, daily prayers, and celibacy as part of their spiritual discipline.
How is Thaipusam celebrated in Singapore?
During the procession, devotees carry paal kudam (pots of milk), paal kavadi, and various forms of kavadi. The Singapore procession spans around four kilometres, and the kavadi is its most recognisable symbol.
These elaborate structures are decorated with flowers and peacock feathers, both associated with Lord Murugan. Kavadis can weigh up to 30kg and reach four metres in height. While it may look physically demanding, many kavadi bearers describe feeling calm or entering a trance-like state during the walk. These acts symbolise surrender, perseverance, and personal devotion, often guided by the pulsing beats of urumi melam (traditional drums).
Some devotees also take part in symbolic acts of self-discipline, such as piercing the skin, tongue, or cheeks with vel skewers. That said, piercings aren’t compulsory. Many choose to carry kavadis without hooks, while women and children under 16 typically carry pots of milk as offerings to Lord Murugan.
Another meaningful ritual is head shaving, which symbolises purification. Devotees may shave their heads as an offering before taking a ritual bath and continuing their journey to the temple.
Is Thaipusam celebrated outside Singapore?
Yes! Thaipusam is observed by Tamil Hindu communities worldwide. While it originated in Tamil Nadu, India, the festival is widely celebrated in countries with large Tamil diasporas, including Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius. Closer to home, Malaysia hosts the largest Thaipusam celebration in the world, with up to two million devotees gathering at the iconic Batu Caves near Kuala Lumpur.
All you need to know about Thaipusam 2026 in Singapore
The main procession route runs between Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple on Serangoon Road and Sri Thendayuthapani Temple on Tank Road. Thousands of devotees will walk this route, carrying offerings such as paal kudam and kavadis.
– Procession starts: 31 January 2026, 11.30pm (from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple)
– Temple doors open: 1 February 2026, 12.05am (Sri Thendayuthapani Temple)
If you’re hoping to catch the action, it’s best to arrive early and station yourself along the procession route.
You can also catch the Silver Chariot Procession on the eve of Thaipusam. According to tradition, Lord Murugan leaves the Sri Thendayuthapani Temple to spend a day with his brother, Lord Ganesha (Sri Vinayagar).
– Silver Chariot Procession (outbound):
Starts at 5am, stops at Sri Mariamman Temple (6.30am), and arrives at Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple on Keong Saik Road at 7.30am
– Return procession:
Begins at 5pm from Keong Saik Road, with stops at Cecil Street, Chin Swee Road, and High Street, before returning to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple at 9pm
Thaipusam 2026 road closures
To accommodate the procession, expect road closures along the route between the two temples from 31 January, 2pm to 2 February, 4am. As Thaipusam falls on a Sunday this year, larger crowds are expected, so plan ahead and check LTA’s detailed road closure map before heading out.
Whether you’re observing from the sidelines or learning about it for the first time, Thaipusam in Singapore offers a rare glimpse into the depth of devotion, resilience and shared spirit that make our culture so special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Thaipusam?
Thaipusam in Singapore is a vibrant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan, celebrated with devotion, rituals, and processions. Devotees carry offerings such as kavadis (decorated structures) and paal kudam (milk pots) as acts of thanksgiving and penance.
When is Thaipusam 2026?
Thaipusam 2026 will be celebrated on Sunday, 1 February 2026. The main procession begins late on 31 January from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple and concludes at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple.
Is Thaipusam a public holiday in Singapore?
No, Thaipusam is not a public holiday in Singapore, though it remains a significant cultural and religious observance for the Hindu community, with major processions and temple activities often occurring around the date.
Who participates in Thaipusam?
Most participants are Hindu Tamils, but devotees of other backgrounds may also take part. Women and children often carry milk pots, while others may carry kavadis with or without piercings.
Are there road closures during the festival?
Yes. Expect road closures along the procession route from 31 January, 2pm to 2 February, 4am. Since Thaipusam falls on a Sunday this year, crowd sizes are expected to be larger.
Can visitors watch the procession?
Definitely! Spectators can line the route for a glimpse of the kavadis, milk pot offerings, and ceremonial rituals. The Silver Chariot Procession also takes place on the eve of Thaipusam, starting at 5am with stops at key temples across the city.
How should visitors prepare for Thaipusam?
Wear comfortable shoes, plan ahead for road closures, and arrive early along the procession route for the best view. Respect the rituals and space of devotees, and take the opportunity to witness this culturally rich festival.
