Kampong Glam is one of the oldest urban quarters in Singapore, named after a paperbark tree that once grew in the area. It is home to Malay, Arab, and Bugis communities, who have shaped its rich and diverse culture, history, and architecture. Whether you are looking for religious buildings, museums, shopping, dining, or nightlife, Kampong Glam has something for everyone. In this guide, we will show you the best places to visit and things to do in Kampong Glam, and why it is a must-see destination for any traveller in Singapore.
Sultan Mosque: The Crown Jewel of Kampong Glam
The Sultan Mosque, or Masjid Sultan, is the largest and most impressive mosque in Singapore, built in 1824 by Sultan Hussein Shah, the first sultan of Singapore. It is a stunning example of Indo-Saracenic style, with a massive golden dome, four minarets, and balustrades. The dome is made of glass bottle ends, donated by the poor Muslims who could not afford to contribute otherwise. The mosque can accommodate up to 5,000 worshippers, and is a focal point of the Muslim community in Singapore.
The mosque is open to visitors from 10 am to 4 pm, except on Fridays from 12 pm to 2 pm. Admission is free, but you need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the mosque, and admire its intricate details and decorations.
Haji Lane: The Hippest Street in Kampong Glam
Haji Lane is a narrow and colorful street with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants, popular among locals and tourists alike. It is a paradise for shoppers and foodies, who can find everything from vintage clothing, handmade accessories, local art, ethnic cuisine, and specialty coffee. The street is also a canvas for street art and murals, which add to its vibrant and eclectic charm. You can take photos and selfies with the stunning artworks, and share them on social media.
Haji Lane is easily accessible by public transport, and is best visited in the late afternoon or evening, when the street comes alive with music and entertainment. You can also enjoy the nightlife at some of the bars and pubs on the street, and mingle with the friendly and diverse crowd.
Malay Heritage Center: The Cultural Hub of Kampong Glam
The Malay Heritage Center is a museum and cultural center showcasing the history and heritage of Malay Singaporeans, housed in a former Sultan’s palace. It is a beautiful building with yellow walls, green windows, and red roofs, surrounded by a lush garden. The center has six permanent galleries and a rotating exhibition space, where you can explore the royal history, the trade and migration, the kampong life, and the contemporary culture of the Malay community. You can also see artifacts, costumes, photographs, and multimedia displays that tell the stories of the people and the place.
The center is open from 10 am to 6 pm, except on Mondays. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for students and seniors, and free for children under 6. You can also join a guided tour to get a deeper insight into the exhibits and galleries, and learn more about the Malay heritage and identity.
Arab Street: The Heart of Kampong Glam
Arab Street is a vibrant street with Middle Eastern culture, shops, and eateries, located near the Sultan Mosque. It is a treasure trove for shoppers, who can find carpets, fabrics, perfumes, spices, jewelry, and more. The quality and variety of the products are unmatched, and you can bargain for the best prices. You can also enjoy the services of the tailors, who can make custom-made clothes for you. Arab Street is also a gastronomic delight, where you can taste the flavors of the Middle East, such as kebabs, hummus, falafel, baklava, and mint tea.
Arab Street is a short walk from the Bugis MRT station, and is open from 10 am to 10 pm. You can also visit the nearby Bussorah Street, which is a pedestrian street with more shops, cafes, and restaurants, leading to the Sultan Mosque.
Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple: The Buddhist Sanctuary in Kampong Glam
The Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a famous Buddhist temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy, or Kwan Im, popular for divination predictions. It is one of the oldest temples in Singapore, built in 1884, and has survived the Japanese occupation and the urban redevelopment. It is a serene and peaceful place, where you can see devotees offering incense, flowers, and fruits, shaking fortune sticks, and receiving blessings. The temple is also known for its charitable and social work, such as providing free medical services and education.
The temple is open from 6 am to 6 pm, and admission is free. You need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the temple, and the Buddhist teachings and practices.
Hajjah Fatimah Mosque: The Unique Mosque with a Leaning Minaret
The Hajjah Fatimah Mosque is a unique mosque with a leaning minaret, built in 1846 by a wealthy Malay woman named Hajjah Fatimah. She was a philanthropist and a businesswoman, who owned many properties in Kampong Glam. According to legend, she built the mosque after her house was mysteriously burned down twice, and she escaped unharmed. The mosque is a symbol of the diversity and harmony of the Kampong Glam community, as it reflects the eclectic mix of European, Malay, and Chinese styles. The mosque has an octagonal minaret, which leans slightly to the right, and an onion-shaped dome, which is rare in Singapore.
The mosque is open to visitors from 10 am to 4 pm, except on Fridays from 12 pm to 2 pm. Admission is free, but you need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the history and legend of the mosque, and admire its architectural features and details.
Bussorah Street: The Pedestrian Street Leading to the Sultan Mosque
Bussorah Street is a pedestrian street with shops, cafes, and restaurants, leading to the Sultan Mosque. It is a charming and relaxing street, where you can enjoy the ambiance and the view of the mosque. You can find souvenirs, antiques, books, ice cream, and Turkish food on the street, and have a pleasant time browsing and eating. You can also see the Malay Heritage Center and the Masjid Malabar on the street, which are worth a visit.
Bussorah Street is a short walk from the Bugis MRT station, and is open from 10 am to 10 pm. You can also visit the nearby Haji Lane, which is a hip and colorful street with more shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Masjid Malabar: The Mosque Managed by the Malabar Muslim Community
The Masjid Malabar is a mosque managed by the Malabar Muslim community, who migrated from Kerala, India, in the 19th century. They were traders and merchants, who contributed to the economy and society of Singapore. The mosque is known for its blue and white facade and golden dome, which stand out among the other buildings in Kampong Glam. The mosque has geometric patterns, Arabic calligraphy, and stained glass windows, which add to its beauty and elegance.
The mosque is open to visitors from 10 am to 4 pm, except on Fridays from 12 pm to 2 pm. Admission is free, but you need to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering. You can also join a guided tour to learn more about the history and role of the mosque, and the Malabar Muslim community.
Bugis Street Market: The Popular Shopping Destination Near Kampong Glam
The Bugis Street Market is a popular shopping destination with cheap and trendy items, street food, and entertainment, located near Kampong Glam. It is a paradise for bargain hunters, who can find clothing, accessories, electronics, souvenirs, and snacks at low prices. The market has over 600 stalls, spread over three floors, and attracts both locals and tourists, especially young people. The market also has a lively and fun atmosphere, with music and performers.
The market is open from 11 am to 10 pm, and is easily accessible by public transport. You can also visit the nearby Bugis Junction and Bugis+, which are modern shopping malls with more shops, restaurants, and cinemas.
Kampong Glam is a fascinating and diverse area in Singapore, where you can experience the culture, history, and architecture of the Malay, Arab, and Bugis communities. It is a place where you can find religious buildings, museums, shopping, dining, and nightlife, all within walking distance. It is a place where you can learn, explore, and enjoy, and have a memorable time in Singapore.
If you are interested in visiting Kampong Glam, you can book a hotel in the area, and plan your itinerary with our Singapore travel packages. You can also explore other areas in Singapore, such as Chinatown, Little India, and Marina Bay, which are equally amazing and exciting.
Thank you for reading our guide to Kampong Glam. We hope you found it useful and informative. Please share your feedback or comments with us, and let us know what you think of Kampong Glam.
