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Kampong Glam is home to many Muslim communities in Singapore, offering a unique blend of Malay and Islamic cultures. Kampong Glam's Arab Street, a charming street steeped in Arabian charm, is filled with unique shops selling Muslim rattan products, Arabian carpets, Indian saris, and other daily necessities. Traditional local food stalls abound, and there's even the opportunity to customize your own Arabian perfume, making it a perfect place for a shopping spree. An annual street carnival celebrates the Prophet Muhammad's birthday. Visitors planning to visit the temple should wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or a long skirt.
All seasons are possible;
Every year during Ramadan, there are food stalls and cultural performances everywhere.
1-3 hours;
Haji Lane, Sultan Mosque.
free
All day
Kampong Glam is one of Singapore's oldest neighborhoods and was historically the center of Malay culture and community. It’s significant for its rich heritage, particularly its association with the Malay Sultanate, and for being home to the famous Sultan Mosque, one of the most iconic religious structures in the country.
Kampong Glam is located in the central region of Singapore. It can be accessed by MRT (Bugis or Lavender stations) and is also well-served by bus routes. Walking around the area is pleasant and highly recommended to explore its narrow lanes and alleys.
The area itself is open all day, but most attractions like the Sultan Mosque and Malay Heritage Centre have specific hours, typically from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Entry to Kampong Glam itself is free, but certain attractions like the Malay Heritage Centre have an entrance fee, typically around SGD 6-10. Tickets for these can be purchased at the venue or online in advance for discounts.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for the Malay Heritage Centre and other specific events or tours in the area. Typically, booking a few days in advance should suffice, especially during peak seasons.
To fully explore Kampong Glam, plan for about 2-3 hours. This allows time to visit key landmarks, shop in local boutiques, and enjoy meals at local eateries.
Guided tours are available, and most are conducted in English. Audio guides may be available at the Malay Heritage Centre, providing commentary in several languages including Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil.
Start at the Sultan Mosque, then head to the Malay Heritage Centre to learn about the area’s history. Afterward, explore the charming streets of Haji Lane and Arab Street, stopping for food and shopping along the way.
While there are no major light shows, Kampong Glam comes alive at night with its vibrant cafe and bar scene, especially along Haji Lane and Arab Street. The area is popular for night-time strolls and outdoor dining.
Kampong Glam can get busy, particularly on weekends and during public holidays. The best times to visit for a quieter experience are early mornings on weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday.
Kampong Glam is generally accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, with paved walkways and ramps available at most attractions, including the Malay Heritage Centre and Sultan Mosque.
Both cash and cards are widely accepted. Mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used at most establishments in the area.
Yes, there are numerous vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available, particularly along Haji Lane and Arab Street. Restaurants like The Lab and Blu Jaz Cafe cater to vegetarian and halal dietary preferences.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops along Haji Lane and Arab Street selling textiles, traditional crafts, Malay-inspired items, and clothing. Popular souvenirs include batik fabrics, scarves, and hand-crafted accessories.
