Most foreigners and tourists only know Singapore as “garden city”, “lion city” or “food haven”. Many people only know about Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa and Orchard Road, but Singapore has much more to offer than just sightseeing.
Singapore is one of the few countries in the world that is truly multi-cultural. Singapore is mainly made up of four races – Chinese, Indians, Malays and Eurasians.
In this and subsequent posts, let me show you places where you can learn more about the colorful multi-racial culture of Singapore.
I am ashamed to confess that I didn’t even know that there is an Indian Heritage Centre in Singapore until recently. I expected it be a small and dusty place filled with dust-covered artifacts. It turned out to be so much nicer than I expected.
Located on Campbell Lane accessible by either Little India or Rocher MRT stations, the Indian Heritage Centre is housed in a modern 4-storey building. The entrance to the centre is a tall glass door bordered by a golden door. It is so majestic, all I could do was gawk at it in admiration till the kindly Indian doorman beckoned me in.
The first floor is the ticketing area, which is beautifully decorated. The bright fluorescent lights light up the whole area. Opposite the ticketing counter are activity areas of colorful cushions and umbrella for photographs.
The Indian Heritage Centre is free for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents, you just have to show your pink/blue NRIC and the staff will give you a sticker.
Foreigners and tourists adults have to pay S$6 while senior citizens over 60 years old and students pay S$4. Free for children under 6 years old and first caregiver of person with disabilities.
The permanent exhibitions are on levels 3 and 4 and the second level houses activity rooms.
I decided to go up to level 4 first where Permanent Gallery A is housed. Permanent Gallery A tells us about how the Indians came to Singapore and how they struggled to survive through the early years and Japanese Occupation.
One thing I like about the Indian Heritage Centre that I don’t see in other places are activity areas such as Hats, Postcards and Photo Studio. These activities allow visitors to interact and engage with the centre which makes a lasting impression. How do I look?
Permanent Gallery B on level 3 talks about how Indians have contributed to Singapore in many sectors. There is one more activity area on this level, Rubbing Station. You will also get to see stunning artefacts such as these chettinad doorway and tiled facade.
You can buy souvenirs from the Museum Shop on level 1.
The Indian Heritage Centre is a mini-museum emphasizing on the importance of Indians in Singapore in past and present. There are interactive activities that adults and kids will all enjoy. It is free for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents, so what are you waiting for?
Indian Heritage Centre
Address: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
Telephone: 62911601
Opening Hours: Closed on Mondays, Tuesday – Thursday 10am – 7pm, Friday – Saturday 10am – 8pm, Sundays and Public Holidays 10am – 4pm
Tickets:
Free for Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents (show your pink/blue NRIC for verification).
Foreigners and tourists pay S$6 for adults, students/seniors/person with disabilities pay S$4. Free for children under 6 years old and 1st caregiver of person with disabilities. ”