Walking through Singapore’s Little India at dusk, one feels transported away from the city to the homeland of Singapore’s many Indian immigrants—from the sight of these residents going about their daily business, to the fragrant aroma of cardamom and turmeric emanating from restaurants and hawker centres, to the bells ringing out from Hindu temples. On this 2-hour Singapore Little India tour in the company of a local expert, we’ll delve into the history of the Indian community in Singapore from the time of sepoys to the story of Madras and beyond. In the early evening, the temperature is cooler and the sunsets are striking. This is a great tour for anyone with an interest in multicultural Singapore, with a specific Indian focus.

Beginning our tour in the heart of Little India, we will immediately take in the lively nature of the neighborhood, from the buzz of passersby to the dazzling array of hues adorning the surrounding buildings. As we move from the center of the neighborhood, our route may vary based on the proclivities of the group and the expertise of the guide. We might, for instance, dive off down Serangoon Road, a main artery for the neighborhood, where we’ll learn how the neighborhood has developed, largely escaping the modernization the rest of Singapore has seen. We will see family-owned businesses and shophouses, allowing for a discussion of how Indians were prompted to settle in Singapore, bringing with them customs, cuisine, and other facets of their homeland. Stemming from the arrival of these workers, we’ll discuss the construction of the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple in the mid-19th century, dedicated to the oft-misunderstood goddess Kali. Our guide will point out some architectural details of this vibrant, South Indian Tamil-style temple, which prompted the shipping of skilled workers from Southern Indian, especially for the construction.

We also have another tour with a focus on religion and temples. Try our Singapore Chinatown Tour.

Leaving the neighborhood’s temples behind, our Singapore Little India Tour may take us to visit the Tekka Centre, a market with an array of items from traditional clothing to cheese naan to vadais—a savory fried snack. A sensory overload befitting the neighborhood it’s contained within, our guide will introduce the history of the market over a local Indian snack or drink. As we leave the flurry behind us, we’ll pass by the Little India Arcade, a destination for many who are searching for saris or accessories that offers a good contrast to the luxury and opulence of Singapore’s more developed malls. As we weave our way down Madras Street, our expert guide might touch on the story of Madras Chunam, the lime pits, and the process of plastering, which was so fundamental to the development of Singapore. We will pass Masjid Abdul Gaffoor Mosque and Dunlop Street, allowing for a discussion of the history of Boyanese and Tamil Muslim communities as we observe the place of worship from the street (tourists, unfortunately, are not allowed to enter).

Interested in trying more than just a snack? Then come and explore Hawker Centres on our Singapore Food Tour.

The heart of Singapore’s Indian cultural community continues to thrive in Little India, where the distinctive cuisines, cultural practices, and ways of life continue to contribute to Singapore’s incredible diversity. With our guide, we will learn the history and heritage that accompany everyday life on this atmospheric walk through Little India in the early evening. We will emerge with a greater understanding of what keeps this bustling area ticking and have had a (quite literal) taste of what is on offer in the neighborhood.