The Colorful Alleys and Walls of Little India Become Photographs
Collection Singapore Travel 2026.08.26

The Colorful Alleys and Walls of Little India Become Photographs

A place that records traditional architecture, markets, and street art with the light of day and night

Photographs in Little India linger longer when one understands the essence of the place rather than just posing in front of colorful walls. The wooden windows of the Tan Teng Niah house, the carvings of the temples, the reflective exterior of the cultural center, the vibrant colors of the market, and the murals on the alley walls all capture different times and communities. I selected eight closely located spots to alternate between documenting architecture and street art.

The soft light of the morning enhances architectural colors, while cloudy days reduce the reflections of murals. However, the temples and markets are not filming sets; they are spaces for worship and livelihood. Do not block entrances, vehicles, or pedestrians, and ask for permission when photographing people. Quick captures with smaller equipment can respect the space even in narrow alleys.

House of Tan Teng Niah

Built around 1900 by Chinese merchant Tan Teng Niah, this is a rare Chinese villa that remains in Little India. The colorful wooden windows and decorations create a strong contrast among the surrounding shop houses.

This location, seen first in the alleys and walls of Little India becoming photographs, offers a different character than the previous and next points, changing the rhythm of the route. Save the address on your map and check the entrance location rather than the distance traveled to reduce heat and detour time. Rather than just emphasizing colors, let’s capture the context that a house built by a Chinese merchant around 1900 remains within the Indian trading community.

Since this is a place to observe the current exterior, do not block the entrance to private spaces or attempt to enter the interior. Capture the front in soft morning light while being mindful of the road and parked vehicles for brief shots.
주소 37 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219168 공식 안내 https://www.visitsingapore.com/neighbourhood/featured-neighbourhood/little-india/tan-teng-niah-house/ 방문 팁 현재 외관을 보는 장소이므로 사유 공간의 출입구를 막거나 내부 진입을 시도하지 않는다. 오전의 부드러운 빛에 정면을 담고, 도로와 주차 차량을 살피며 짧게 촬영한다.
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Traditional Trades of Little India Mural

This mural, created by Psyfool, illustrates the traditional commerce and daily life scenes of Little India using several characters. Located near the Tan Teng Niah house, it allows for a comparison of architectural colors and narrative street art in one alley.

This location, viewed second in the alleys and walls of Little India becoming photographs, alters the rhythm of the route due to its different character from the previous and next points. Save the address on your map and check the entrance location to reduce heat and detour time. As Psyfool records the traditional commerce and daily life scenes with various characters, the meaning shines when capturing the overall narrative that connects occupations and tools rather than focusing on just one character.

The alley before the mural is narrow, requiring consideration for wide-angle distortion and vehicles. Wait for other visitors to finish photographing before proceeding, and do not lean against or attach props to the artwork. After rain, be careful of the slippery ground rather than the wall surface.
주소 8 Belilios Lane, Singapore 219955 공식 안내 https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf 방문 팁 벽화 앞 골목이 좁아 광각 왜곡과 차량을 고려해야 한다. 다른 방문객의 촬영을 기다리고, 작품에 기대거나 소품을 붙이지 않는다. 비 온 뒤에는 벽면보다 미끄러운 노면을 먼저 살핀다.
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Working Class Hero Mural

This mural, painted by artist ZERO, connects the narrative of the working class with Indian film star Rajinikanth. The narrow alley and parking lot environment create an urban context for the artwork.

This location, seen third in the alleys and walls of Little India becoming photographs, changes the rhythm of the route with a different character from the previous and next points. Save the address on your map and check the entrance location to reduce heat and detour time. As the work connects the image of Indian film star Rajinikanth with the narrative of the working class, let’s try to frame both the portrait and the surrounding street life together.

Ensure that the parking lot and vehicle entrance are not blocked, securing wide angles within the pedestrian space. The condition of the artwork and surrounding construction may change, and prioritize the privacy of residents over background when photographing individuals.
주소 11 Hindoo Road, Singapore 209108 공식 안내 https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf 방문 팁 주차장과 차량 출입구를 막지 않고 넓은 화각은 보행 공간 안에서 확보한다. 작품 상태와 주변 공사는 변할 수 있으며, 인물 촬영 시 주민의 사생활을 배경보다 우선한다.
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Alive at Clive Mural

This mural, created by TraseOne, vividly expresses the movements of traditional Indian dancers in striking colors. In the static environment of shops, the gestures and direction of colors come alive, making it a good backdrop for portraits.

This location, observed fourth in the alleys and walls of Little India becoming photographs, changes the rhythm of the route with its different character versus previous points. Save the address on your map and check the entrance location to reduce heat and detour time. As TraseOne expresses the movements of traditional Indian dancers in vibrant colors, capturing the movement of the body and the empty space on the wall can effectively showcase the rhythm of the artwork.

Do not obstruct vehicle and shop access on Dunlop Street. After capturing the entire wall, photograph the details following the lines of the dance movements, choosing mornings or cloudy days rather than harsh midday shadows.
주소 106 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209425 공식 안내 https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf 방문 팁 Dunlop Street의 차량과 상점 출입을 방해하지 않는다. 벽면 전체를 담은 뒤 춤 동작의 선을 따라 세부를 촬영하고, 한낮의 강한 그림자보다 오전이나 흐린 날을 활용한다.
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Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple

Established in 1855, this is the main Hindu temple in Little India dedicated to the goddess Kali. The dense gopuram and internal ceremonial space showcase features of South Indian temple architecture.

This location, seen fifth in the alleys and walls of Little India becoming photographs, alters the rhythm of the route due to its different character versus previous points. Save the address on your map and check the entrance location to reduce heat and detour time. Since this temple has been in operation since 1855 and continues to be a place of worship for the goddess Kali, when capturing the ornate gopuram, it’s essential to treat devotees and rituals as part of the photograph's background.

As it is a place of worship, follow the dress code and shoe storage rules. During ceremonies, do not obstruct passage and photography, and check the entrance guidance on the day for internal photography permissions and opening hours.
주소 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042 공식 안내 https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/landmarks/little-india-heritage-trail-walk-of-faiths/sri-veeramakaliamman-temple 방문 팁 예배 장소이므로 단정한 복장과 신발 보관 규칙을 따른다. 의식 중에는 통행과 촬영을 방해하지 말고, 내부 촬영 허용 여부와 개방 시간은 입구 안내를 당일 확인한다.
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Little India Arcade

This is a small commercial space inside preserved shop houses, featuring clothing, jewelry, spices, and souvenir shops. Even in short corridors, colors, scents, and display methods densely overlap.

Photographing the arches of the arcade and the colorful shop signs works best from a diagonal angle to enhance depth. However, since the narrow corridor is actual retail space, avoid setting up tripods or occupying the area for long periods, and opt for quick sessions during the quieter mornings.

Operating hours and payment methods vary by store. When getting henna or custom products, check the price, time required, and skin precautions beforehand. Since the aisle is narrow, ensure you clear the way for other visitors while photographing.
주소 48 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217959 공식 안내 https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/landmarks/little-india-heritage-trail-shop-till-you-drop/little-india-arcade 방문 팁 점포별 영업시간과 결제 방식이 다르다. 헤나 시술이나 맞춤 상품은 가격·소요시간·피부 주의사항을 먼저 확인하고, 통로가 좁으므로 촬영할 때 다른 방문객의 이동을 비운다.
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Indian Heritage Centre

This national cultural institution showcases the migration, lifestyle, and cultural history of the Indian community in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The modern exterior reflecting light contrasts with the traditional shopping streets of Campbell Lane, showing different eras.

The red exterior wall and geometric windows provide good contrast against surrounding colors, making it suitable as a background for architectural photography. Frame your composition to avoid capturing the faces of exhibition visitors, and after photographing the exterior, explore the internal exhibitions to discover the meanings of patterns and local history in your photos.

According to official guidance, the center is closed on Mondays, and the last entry is earlier than closing time. Check the ticketing for special exhibitions and photography restrictions, and walk along Campbell Lane after your visit to connect the exhibition's cultural life with the street scene.
주소 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924 공식 안내 https://www.indianheritage.gov.sg/en/plan-your-visit/location-opening-hours 방문 팁 공식 안내상 월요일은 휴관이며 입장 마감이 폐관보다 이르다. 특별전 티켓과 촬영 제한을 확인하고, 관람 뒤 Campbell Lane을 걸으면 전시의 생활문화가 거리 풍경과 연결된다.
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Tekka Centre

This is the focal point of life in Little India, combining a traditional market and food center within one building. Spice, vegetable, meat, and clothing stores are divided by floors and sections, showcasing a rhythm of local shopping distinct from tourist areas.

To capture the feel of Little India, arrange the signs and the colors of fruits, flowers, and spices at the market entrance in layers. When photographing close-ups of merchants' faces or displays, ask for permission first, and use small equipment to shoot quickly without obstructing passage or trades.

Mornings offer an excellent view of market activity, while meal times see the food center bustling. Watch out for wet floors in the raw meat section, and check the availability of cash and electronic payment options before placing food orders.
주소 665 Buffalo Road, Singapore 210665 공식 안내 https://www.visitsingapore.com/neighbourhood/featured-neighbourhood/little-india/ 방문 팁 아침에는 시장의 움직임을 보기 좋고 식사 시간에는 푸드센터가 붐빈다. 생고기 구역의 젖은 바닥을 조심하고, 음식 주문 전 현금·전자결제 가능 여부와 휴무 점포를 확인한다.
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The photo route starts at Tan Teng Niah and Belilios Lane, passing by the temples and Arcade on Serangoon Road, and finishing at the market where the light and background continuously change. The murals on Hindoo Road and Dunlop Street tell local stories, including labor, film, and dance, creating a different rhythm from architectural photography.

Murals can change due to painting or construction, so check the official local map alongside the site. You can add lighting near Mustafa at night, but don’t linger alone in narrow alleys for too long, and plan your route home. The best photos are not those with vibrant colors but those that do not disrupt the use of the space. Keep shooting brief and leave time to observe with your eyes.
At a glance 8 items
House of Tan Teng Niah
37 Kerbau Road, Singapore 219168 · https://www.visitsingapore.com/neighbourhood/featured-neighbourhood/little-india/tan-teng-niah-house/ · 현재 외관을 보는 장소이므로 사유 공간의 출입구를 막거나 내부 진입을 시도하지 않는다. 오전의 부드러운 빛에 정면을 담고, 도로와 주차 차량을 살피며 짧게 촬영한다.
Traditional Trades of Little India Mural
8 Belilios Lane, Singapore 219955 · https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf · 벽화 앞 골목이 좁아 광각 왜곡과 차량을 고려해야 한다. 다른 방문객의 촬영을 기다리고, 작품에 기대거나 소품을 붙이지 않는다. 비 온 뒤에는 벽면보다 미끄러운 노면을 먼저 살핀다.
Working Class Hero Mural
11 Hindoo Road, Singapore 209108 · https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf · 주차장과 차량 출입구를 막지 않고 넓은 화각은 보행 공간 안에서 확보한다. 작품 상태와 주변 공사는 변할 수 있으며, 인물 촬영 시 주민의 사생활을 배경보다 우선한다.
Alive at Clive Mural
106 Dunlop Street, Singapore 209425 · https://www.visitsingapore.com/content/dam/visitsingapore/neighbourhoods/little-india/Little-India_Digital-Version_Final_%281%29_%281%29.pdf · Dunlop Street의 차량과 상점 출입을 방해하지 않는다. 벽면 전체를 담은 뒤 춤 동작의 선을 따라 세부를 촬영하고, 한낮의 강한 그림자보다 오전이나 흐린 날을 활용한다.
Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042 · https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/landmarks/little-india-heritage-trail-walk-of-faiths/sri-veeramakaliamman-temple · 예배 장소이므로 단정한 복장과 신발 보관 규칙을 따른다. 의식 중에는 통행과 촬영을 방해하지 말고, 내부 촬영 허용 여부와 개방 시간은 입구 안내를 당일 확인한다.
Little India Arcade
48 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217959 · https://www.roots.gov.sg/places/places-landing/Places/landmarks/little-india-heritage-trail-shop-till-you-drop/little-india-arcade · 점포별 영업시간과 결제 방식이 다르다. 헤나 시술이나 맞춤 상품은 가격·소요시간·피부 주의사항을 먼저 확인하고, 통로가 좁으므로 촬영할 때 다른 방문객의 이동을 비운다.
Indian Heritage Centre
5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924 · https://www.indianheritage.gov.sg/en/plan-your-visit/location-opening-hours · 공식 안내상 월요일은 휴관이며 입장 마감이 폐관보다 이르다. 특별전 티켓과 촬영 제한을 확인하고, 관람 뒤 Campbell Lane을 걸으면 전시의 생활문화가 거리 풍경과 연결된다.
Tekka Centre
665 Buffalo Road, Singapore 210665 · https://www.visitsingapore.com/neighbourhood/featured-neighbourhood/little-india/ · 아침에는 시장의 움직임을 보기 좋고 식사 시간에는 푸드센터가 붐빈다. 생고기 구역의 젖은 바닥을 조심하고, 음식 주문 전 현금·전자결제 가능 여부와 휴무 점포를 확인한다.
Locations at a glance 8 places

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