Little India: Cattle, Jasmine, Spice & All Things Nice

Explore the heart and soul of Singapore’s Indian community — Little India. It is today a heritage district associated with vibrant colours, loud music, the fragrance of flowers and spices, and an eclectic mix of houses. But on this tour, you will be hearing not just about its present-day vibrancy, but also its early days of cattle slaughtering, horse racing, baby delivering and more!

Your tour starts from the corner of Rochor and Perak roads where you will see a lesser known, religiously diverse, and contrastingly hipster section of Little India. You will find out about the different community groups worshipping at the religious spaces there, which includes a visit to the historical and architecturally marvellous Abdul Gaffoor Mosque. Check out the area's new hip-quotient and find out how old run-down buildings found a new identity, from a former-school-turned-hotel (Wanderlust Hotel) to numerous budget backpacker’s lodgings as well as cafes and restaurants serving an international menu.

Moovvve on to Campbell Lane (one of the many roads with a European name), and Buffalo and Kerbau roads (names associated with cattle), to discover traditional Indian trades, food, customs, attire, decorations and businesses, and uncover the significance of each. A short break at Tekka Centre will allow sampling of local fare and observe where and how locals live and shop. Along the way, you will get to see the last remaining Chinese villa in Little India and the only North Indian temple in Singapore (see if you can spot it). A must visit is the Sri Veerakaliamman Temple, a national monument, where you learn to appreciate the symbolism and meaning behind Hinduism and its rituals.