Little India Singapore
Little India is a well-preserved ethnic precinct in Singapore consisting of vibrant shophouses and traditional Indian stores. It infuses culture, shopping and culinary delights that will bring out the Indian spirit of the diverse community in Singapore. Here are a list of iconic places within Little India that will surely be an immersive experience into the Indian cultural aspect of Singapore.
Tekka Market is Singapore’s largest indoor wet market which houses about 250 stalls that sell a variety of fresh produce, cooked food and traditional spices. The market is also home to traditional Indian apparels that are sold at affordable prices.
Source: Roots.sg
Little India Arcade is a favourite among tourists as it offers a collection of early 20th century shophouses which showcases clothing, accessories and food stalls. You will also be able to find henna stalls offering henna service which is a temporary tattoo that is made from natural plant ingredients.
Source: Roots.sg
Little India is also home to famous Hindu temples that will offer you an intriguing insight into the history of Indian culture in Singapore. The Sri Veeramakaliamman temple is an intricate temple that is a symbol of the area’s history throughout the years. The temple was first constructed as a safe haven for the large influx of Indian migrants as there is a need for the early migrants to feel safe in a new land that they now call home. The temple has been through World War II and remains one of the most recognizable monuments in the area.
Source: Flickr
The Indian Heritage Centre provides a unique immersive experience into the South Asian communities in Southeast Asia. The building is split into five thematic exhibits that showcase the diverse heritage of the Indian community in Singapore and is complemented by historical roles and contributions from Indian pioneers in Singapore and Malaya. This building showcases the efforts of the Indian community into shaping the Singapore we know today.
Source: HiPPO Singapore Pass
Lastly, Mustafa Centre is a shopping haven that sells almost anything ranging from food items, apparels, household appliances and even visa services. Mustafa Centre started out as a small garment shop in 1971 and has now evolved into a retail haven spanning 400,000 feet and is home to nearly 300,000 products. You can be sure to pick out a few local souvenirs after combing through the massive 8-storey building.
Source: Roots.sg