Nestled in the heart of Singapore’s Civic District, Fort Canning Park lets you step back in time as you revisit the city’s history. The park’s iconic hilltop location is home to some of Singapore’s historic structures—they include 14th-century palaces, from the time when Singapore was part of the Majapahit empire, as well as architectural features dating from the surrender of Singapore to the Japanese during the Second World War.

Today, the park opens its lush green arms to nature lovers and history buffs, and is one of the more quiet places to chill in Singapore. While you stroll along the park’s paths, you will see ruins of the old fort erected when British statesman Sir Stamford Raffles was placed in charge of the city-state in the 1800s.

One of the highlights at the park is the Maritime Corner, which gives visitors an insight into the Singapore’s early days as a port. There is an easy trail to follow, with exhibits along the way to satisfy your curiosity. Along the way, you may also discover a Spice Garden, the ASEAN Sculpture Garden, and Battle Box, a former WWII underground military complex.

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Experience a rush of the senses when you step into Little India, and be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours, sounds, scents and tastes. 

One of the must-dos here is to visit the precinct’s colourful Hindu and Sikh temples. There are a handful to choose from—we recommend the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, Sri Vadapathira Kaliamman Temple, and Central Sikh Gurdwara Temple. These popular places of worship will give you a rich and deep glimpse into Singapore’s Indian culture. 

There are several festivals celebrated in Little India too. Depending on when you arrive, you can participate in Deepavali (the Festival of Lights, usually in late October every year), Pongal (a harvest festival, usually every January), or Puthandu, the Tamil New Year (usually falling on 14 April). During these periods, Little India transforms into a magical wonderland of lights. 

You cannot leave Little India without visiting Mustafa Centre. Operating around the clock, this expansive complex may not be as fancy as the malls in Orchard, but it sure is comprehensive. Pick from over 30,000 items—from jewellery and household appliances to fresh produce. 

Feeling hungry? Visit a coffee shop to have a cup of chai and roti prata (flatbread), one of the most popular Indian food items enjoyed by locals.     

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Chinatown Heritage Museum

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Peek into Singapore’s early migrant Chinese culture at Chinatown. Apart from trying out its varied food options, you can go on a walking tour to admire its street architecture, dive deeper into its history at the Chinatown Heritage Museum, and bring home a souvenir or two. 

The shophouses here are designed with a combination of elements from Baroque and Victorian architecture. Given a facelift with vibrant colours to make their facades stand out, they are ideal places to take beautiful Singapore photos. 

If you wish, you may join a walking tour led by a knowledgeable guide who will take you through the neighbourhood’s streets. Along the way, you will visit Singapore’s oldest Hokkien Chinese temple—the Thian Hock Keng Temple—learn about traditional chinese medicine, and explore the swanky Ann Siang Hill area. 

Learn more about Chinatown’s unique history by visiting its museums. The Chinatown Heritage Museum will introduce you to the country’s early pioneers and the squalid conditions which they lived when they first arrived from China. You may also visit the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum. This Tang-styled Chinese Buddhist temple features richly decorated interiors and a comprehensive collection of Buddhist art and history. 

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Wish to sample the dishes that Rachel Chu from Crazy Rich Asians dined on? Newton Circus Food Centre is the place to be. With close to 100 stalls, you can find food from different cultures in abundance here.

One of the must-tries here is the barbecued sambal stingray from Guan Kee Grilled Seafood. Grilled to perfection, this dish is dribbled with a generous serving of sambal chilli that would satisfy anyone who loves a spicy kick in their food. If your palates are unable to take the heat, go for the milder Barbecued Chicken Wings from Weng’s BBQ Chicken Wing. 

Flame-cooked over charcoal with a crispy exterior while soft and juicy inside, the smokey-flavoured tender wings are so finger-licking good that it is hard to just stop at one. 

Another local favourite is fried carrot cake. This dish is available at most food centres around the country but if you want the best, go for Heng Carrot Cake here at Newton. Interestingly, Singapore’s version of the carrot cake does not use carrot—instead, chunks of turnip are fried with a savoury egg and sauce mixture. Done right, it melts in your mouth and leaves a delightful aftertaste.

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