Ascott, Little India hotels

As its name suggests, Little India is the thriving centre of Singapore’s large Indian community. This little pocket of India is one of the city-state’s best tourist attractions, although it doesn’t specifically cater for tourism. During the daytime, this district is bustling with spice and gold traders, while at night, the streets light up to show off the many Indian restaurants. Each year, several festivals attract thousands of visitors too.

Little India is a popular place to visit, and while here visitors can enjoy several different activities.

The unique Indian culture found in this part of Singapore is its biggest attraction. Visitors are recommended to simply stroll around the district, and take in the sounds and sights of the main streets and side alleys. Everything from Hindu street signs to Indian-inspired architecture and blaring Bollywood soundtracks greets tourists.

One of the oldest and most important religious sites in Singapore, Little India’s Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple is a must visit. The structure dates back to 1881, although renovations and additions were made to the temple as late as 1986. Make sure to bring a camera, as the site is home to plenty of ornate decorations and colour.

Each year, there are several exciting celebrations that are centred within Little India. Arguably the most prolific festival in the district is the Hindu Festival of Light, or Deepavali. The streets are illuminated and markets sell festival-related goodies, attracting many thousands of people. Thaipusam is another event, held each January or February. Be wary, as the rituals can be quite extreme.

No surprisingly, Indian food is the main cuisine found here. However, there is a range of Indian cuisine to try, with distinct north and south Indian restaurants operating. One of the stand-out dishes, which is actually unique to Singapore, is fish-head curry. Both Chinese and Indian styles of this dish are available. Then there’s the regular choices like Chapati with keema, tandoori chicken, masala thosai, roti prata and Indian vegetarian food. Restaurants like Ananda Bhavan and Banana Leaf Apollo are some of the standout choices if you’re not just wandering around and sampling delicious Indian food at hawker stalls.

For a night out, tourists should head to one of the interesting pubs along nearby Racecourse Road.

Shopping is mostly done on the streets of Little India, where stalls sell a range of Indian-related produce and merchandise. You can of course buy some traditional indian clothing like sarees, punjabi suits and bangles in the most amazing myriad of colours and styles.

Tekka Market on Buffalo Road is one of the best places to find cheap goods. City Square Mall and Tekka Mall are two of the most unique shopping complexes in Singapore and both are found in Little India. Just outside of the district is Sim Lim Square, which is Singapore’s most important electronics mecca.