Little India

Heritage, Temples & Everyday Color

Nestled just east of the Singapore River, Little India tells a layered story of migration, commerce, and cultural continuity. What began as a hub for livestock trade evolved into the city’s most vivid ethnic enclave—where vendors, temples, and street art stand alongside modern eateries and evolving traditions.

A Neighborhood Rooted in Trade and Heritage

Originally used for cattle and livestock by Indian migrant workers, Little India grew around the Serangoon River and gradually transformed from swampy grazing fields to a colorful, working-class district rich in commerce and heritage.

Today, the area remains a center of South Asian heritage, particularly active during Diwali celebrations, which light up Serangoon Road with festive décor and bazaars.

Streets Alive with Culture and Color

Walking through Little India is a sensory experience. Serangoon Road and its alleys hum with:

Temple façades adorned with intricate carvings and colorful gopurams, like those of Sri Veeramakaliamman and Sri Srinivasa Perumal.
Street art and murals, such as the “Traditional Trades of Little India,” which bring local history to life with paint.
Shophouses painted in jewel tones, each echoing a story of heritage and commerce.

Markets, Cuisine, and Everyday Trade

At Tekka Centre, a two-story complex with a wet market below and food stalls above, you’ll find a mix of Indian, Malay, and Chinese fare, along with fresh produce and tailoring services.
Mustafa Centre, open 24/7, offers everything from spices and electronics to travel services, making it a neighborhood icon.
Walk down Serangoon Road and explore shops selling everything from sari fabric at Haniffa Textiles to religious items at Jothi Store & Flower Shop.

Spiritual Spaces and Sacred Sites

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple: One of the most photogenic sites in the neighborhood, its ornate exterior and active worship create a quiet focal point.
Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple: A National Monument featuring a towering five-tier gopuram adorned with deities; built in 1855 and later expanded.
Angullia Mosque: A landmark of Indo-Islamic architecture, built in 1890 and still serving its community today.
You’ll also find Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, the “Temple of a Thousand Lights,” merging Indian, Thai, and Chinese styles.