Why Indian Tourists Love Singapore’s Cultural Vibes
Singapore is not just a futuristic skyline and shopping paradise—it’s a melting pot of cultures. For Indian travelers, the country offers an enriching mix of Hindu temples, vibrant Indian neighborhoods, diverse cuisines, and multicultural experiences. With over 9% of its population being Indian-origin, Singapore feels familiar yet exciting.
This guide lists the top cultural places in Singapore for Indian tourists, ensuring your trip is both enjoyable and culturally rewarding.
1. Little India – A Home Away From Home
📍Location: Serangoon Road
Little India is the heartbeat of Indian culture in Singapore. It’s bustling, colorful, and feels just like a mini Delhi or Chennai.
What to see & do:
- Visit Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples
- Shop for sarees, bangles, and Indian spices at Tekka Centre
- Explore vibrant murals and wall art
- Indulge in Indian food at Komala Vilas, Ananda Bhavan, or Banana Leaf Apolo
Why Indians love it:
It’s comforting to find cultural roots in a foreign land—with temples, vegetarian meals, and Hindi/Tamil being spoken.
2. Chinatown – Fusion of Chinese & Indian Cultures
Location: South Bridge Road
While it’s known for Chinese culture, Chinatown also has a unique blend of Indian, Malay, and Peranakan influences.
Must-visit spots:
- Sri Mariamman Temple – Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga
- Buddha Tooth Relic Temple – An architectural marvel
- Stroll through Pagoda Street for souvenirs and traditional shops
Fun fact: Indian artisans helped build many temples here in the 1800s!
3. Sri Mariamman Temple – Spiritual Serenity
Location: Chinatown, 244 South Bridge Road
A major highlight for Indian tourists, the Sri Mariamman Temple is not only a religious site but also a heritage landmark.
What to expect:
- Beautiful gopuram (temple tower) with colorful deities
- Free entry with optional donations
- Peaceful prayer halls for a moment of meditation
Best time to visit: Morning or during Hindu festivals like Navratri and Deepavali
4. Kampong Glam – Malay & Indian-Muslim Heritage
Location: North Bridge Road
Kampong Glam reflects Singapore’s Malay-Muslim history, with connections to Indian-Muslim traders from the past.
Highlights:
- Sultan Mosque – with its iconic golden dome
- Haji Lane – a colorful alley full of art, boutiques, and cafes
- Traditional Indian-Muslim food like biryani and murtabak
For Indian tourists: This area resonates with the shared Islamic cultural legacy and offers great photo spots.
5. Indian Heritage Centre – Know Your History
Location: Campbell Lane, Little India
This modern museum tells the story of Indian migration, culture, and influence in Singapore.
Why visit:
- Discover the contributions of early Indian pioneers
- Learn about Indian traditions, languages, and festivals in Singapore
- Interactive displays and guided tours
Opening hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Entry: Free for Singaporeans; small fee for foreigners
6. Deepavali Street Light-Up & Festival
Best Time: October–November
If you’re traveling to Singapore from India around Diwali, don’t miss the Deepavali light-up in Little India.
What you’ll experience:
- Streets lit with decorative arches and festive lights
- Cultural performances, bazaars, and sweets shops
- Free entry to open-air celebrations and temple processions
Why Indians love it: It feels like celebrating Diwali in another country—with familiar rituals and festive joy.
7. Indian Cultural Performances at Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
Location: Marina Bay
Want to experience Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, or Bollywood music concerts abroad?
Check the Esplanade event calendar for:
- Classical Indian dance showcases
- Fusion music nights
- Indian film screenings
Pro Tip: Look for free outdoor shows if you’re traveling on a budget!
Trip Highlights
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Bus, Cabs
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Deluxe Hotels
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India (Excluding Flight Costs)
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Winter
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All meals during the Tour
8. Tekka Centre – Shop Like You’re in India
Location: Little India
This is not just a market—it’s a cultural experience.
What to buy:
- Indian spices, jewelry, and flowers
- Henna, bindis, and pooja items
- Sarees, kurtas, and Punjabi suits
Eat here too! Try dosa, samosa, thali, or masala chai at the hawker food court upstairs.
9. Indian-Fusion Dining in Clarke Quay & Arab Street
Even outside Little India, Singapore offers cultural food diversity Indian tourists will love.
Recommended spots:
- Rang Mahal – Fine-dining Indian cuisine
- Thevar – Michelin-star Indian fusion
- Bismillah Biryani – Legendary Indian-Muslim rice dishes
Why visit: Taste creative takes on Indian classics while enjoying Singapore’s nightlife.
Tips for Indian Tourists Exploring Singapore’s Culture
- Use Google Maps + SG MRT App for navigation
- Respect temple etiquette (remove shoes, dress modestly)
- Use a forex card or UPI-based wallets for better exchange rates
- Book walking tours in Little India & Chinatown for deeper insights
- Best photo spots: Sri Mariamman Temple, Haji Lane, Sultan Mosque
Final Thoughts – Dive Deep into Singapore’s Soul
Singapore is more than just theme parks and luxury malls—it’s a cultural treasure trove waiting to be explored, especially for Indian tourists. From majestic temples and festive celebrations to rich heritage centers and familiar food, Singapore offers Indian travelers a sense of connection, comfort, and curiosity.
So if you’re planning a trip to Singapore from India in 2025, don’t just tick off tourist spots—immerse yourself in the cultural beauty this modern city has to offer.
