Little India

The moment you enter Little India, you cannot help but notice the ‘indian-ness’ of this place. The scent of spices and jasmine garlands, the shine of silverware and brassware, and the wonderful colors of silk saris and shiny bangles are simply awesome.

All aspects of Indian culture and customs are featured along these streets filled with bustling crowds. Originally occupied by European in the 1820s, Indian laborers settled down in the district and made it their own. By early 1900s, an Indian community was formed and Little India thrived to what it is today.

Serangoon Road is the main road in this Indian district. Negotiate your way through stalls peddling flower garlands, shops selling souvenirs, goldsmith selling jewelery to the young and old, wet market with fresh meat and spices, and tailors making beautiful sarees.

You can even get a henna tattoo decorated on your hands or feet.

Do not miss the Sri Veerama Kaliamman Temple. This is a charming little temple where visitors can roam freely in the temple while the Hindus come together to worship. You'll need to remove your footwear before you step in.

And for some authentic Indian cuisine, do stop by at the Khansama Tandoori restaurant. Try their cheese naan, butter chicken or mutton korma. Atmosphere here is good and food is delicious.

Besides the unique street to street shopping experience, if you’re here for some last minute shopping, do also visit the Mustafa Shopping Centre located at Syed Alwi Road.

This mega shopping mall operates 24 hours and is a one-stop mega mall that has everything you need. Goods are offered at reasonable prices and surrounding the mall are many nice eateries.

Mustafa is accessible via Farrer Park MRT station.

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Other ethnic places in Singapore

Chinatown - After the founding of colonial Singapore, Chinatown flourished as the residential area for Chinese immigrants. Coolies, rickshaw pullers and samsui women were a common sight on the streets.

Kampong Glam - Kampong Glam was a fishing village situated at the mouth of Rochor River. In the nineteenth century, it was an ethnic district with strong Malay-Arab influence.

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