Get to know Singapore's historic neighbourhoods

It’s no secret that Singapore is a multi-ethnic society. The majority of the residents are of Chinese, Malay and Indian origins. Such diversity is often great news for travellers as they get to experience so much in a short period of time. If you are visiting Singapore for the first time, you are in for a very interesting time of your life. Singapore’s famous ethnic neighbourhoods are not only jaw-droppingly beautiful, they also have a very beautiful history. Here’s everything you need to know about the historic neighbourhoods of Singapore.

Largest of all historic districts in the country, Chinatown is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in Singapore. Visit Chinatown to experience the unique culture that the Chinese people have managed to preserve even after so many years. When Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles founded modern Singapore back in the 19th century, he envisioned people of the same culture growing together. According to him, if people from the same ethnicity stayed together, it would be easier for them to settle down. Thus began the creation of Chinatown for the Chinese people.

When in Chinatown, include these destinations in your itinerary: Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, Thian Hock Kieng temple, Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore’s oldest and largest Hindu temple, Wak Hai Cheng Bio Temple – oldest Taoist temple in the city. Pay a special visit to one of the old shops; they are specialised in calligraphy and clog making.

Kampong Glam is the famous Muslim and Arab quarter. Here you will find the rich cultural heritage of the Malay people. A walk around the district will take you to beautiful and colourful streets lined with curio shops and cosy little cafes. Walk a little further and you will come to Sultan Mosque, one of the most popular and beautiful mosques not only in Singapore but also the whole world. It is located at Bussorah Street, right next to Haji Lane. The place gives out the Middle East vibe and we are all for it.

If you find Haji Lane very quiet during the day, you should see the same lane after the sunset. The graffiti-filled streets suddenly turn into a long outdoor cafe. The road suddenly has pretty tables and chairs pulled out, live bands are performing, and the general vibe of the place is that of fun. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Chulia Kampong area is where you will find the vibrant Little India district. Indian curios are plentiful here, from Bollywood movies and music to flowers and spices, you will find them all here in Little India. Majority of the people residing here are Tamil-speaking people of Indian origin.

When in Singapore, you must pay a visit to Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, one of the oldest Indian temples in Singapore. This temple was built by Indian prisoners! Also, how can we forget the Temple of 1,000 Lights or the Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple, one of the most prominent Hindu temples in Singapore is one of the most important and widely visited temples in Singapore.

The Malay community of the 50’s and 60’s called Geylang Serai their home. Here you will still find traditional Malay Batik painting and the art of kite-making. The Kampung Museum located in the heart of the district is the centre for traditional arts and crafts. The Geylang Serai market is another popular place to explore in the district. Apart from being a popular wet market, the market is a great place to shop for traditional Malay handicrafts and antiques.

Singapore’s Civic District is the best place to see the grand colonial British buildings. Starting from the iconic Raffles Hotel and its classic bar to the stunning localities of Clarke Quay, a walk around the area will let you experience the timeless old colonial charm. If walking around town is not your thing, don’t worry, you can go for Singapore river boat cruises.