Singapore is a beautiful amalgamation of cultures and colors and this cannot be more justified than the district of Little India located on the banks of the Singapore River. From across the globe, tourists come to Singapore in search for wonderful shopping experiences as well as to treat their eyes to the natural beauty it exudes. But when you step in Little India you will be completely dumbfounded at the sight of India being recreated once again.
No where else in the world, will you find a replication as perfect as Little India which reflects the smells, sights and sounds of the cities and districts of the country of India. A plethora of colors fill the streets and houses, the smell of curry with hints of spices fill the air and the colorful potpourri and numerous beautifully designed saris drape the models on the front porch of the shops. The multitudinous elements of the entire landscape of India have been brought together in perfection within the limited space of Little India.
The historical past of Little India is quite fascinating and dates back to the times of the British colonization of the island which gave rise to cultural and racial segregation. Several convicts of Indian origin were deported to this area. Over time, numerous Indians also immigrated to Singapore in search for work and stayed on and the population grew thus increasing the concentration of the Indians in this region. Very soon they realized that the close proximity of the place to the river will lead to great trade connection and thus began the growth of the various industries in this area. With the passage of time, they turned Little India an important cultural and ethnic hub of Singapore, today visited by thousands of tourists as well as members of other ethnic groups to savor the taste of spicy Indian food and the drench the sights with the rainbow colors prevalent in every corner of the district.
In Little India you can do a lot of sightseeing as the area is dotted with numerous churches, temples and mosques existing in perfect harmony, reflecting the integrity and religious tolerance existent in India. When you have finished visiting these places go shopping in Serangoon Area or Tekka Cetre and Mustafa Centre. Serangoon Area is the main commercial area, vibrant and colorful like the Indian lifestyle and houses numerous shops and stalls, spice mill and jewelry shops selling silver amulets, ornaments for the bride, anklets and glass bangles. Other items available here which you can take back as souvenirs include papier-mâché boxes and handicrafts items from Kashmir. Whereas, Tekka Centre is the wet market selling vegetables, fish, meat, spices, flowers and souvenirs, Mustafa Centre is the 24-hour emporium and departmental store selling all kinds of items at the very reasonable prices. Here, you can even bargain to get the best of prices.
Browse through the links of visittosingapore.com to know all about Singapore, as the site not only provides information on Little India, but also other interesting areas of this nation. So enjoy surfing!
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