Temples & religious sites
Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Singapore
Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple or Sri Perumal Temple is one of the oldest temples in Singapore. It is located in Little India within the planning area of Kallang along Serangoon Road, where its tall Gopuram (tower) shows the different incarnations of Lord Vishnu. This large complex, dedicated to Vishnu, dates from 1855, but the 20-metres-tall Gopuram was only built in 1966 at a cost of S$300,000. The temple's five-tier Gopuram was a donation from P. Govindasamy Pillai, one of the earliest Indian migrants to Singapore. In 1978, the temple was gazetted as a National monument of Singapore.
What it is
Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, located on Serangoon Road in the heart of Little India. The current complex dates back to 1855, making it one of the oldest temples in Singapore. Its main draw is the five-tier Gopuram, a 20-metre entrance tower covered in sculpted figures depicting the various incarnations of Vishnu, added in 1966 and funded by early Indian migrant P. Govindasamy Pillai. The temple was gazetted as a national monument in 1978. Visitors come to see the Gopuram up close, walk through the inner halls, and observe an active place of worship rather than a museum piece.
Getting there
From the city centre (Orchard Road or the Downtown Core), the temple is reachable by MRT via Farrer Park station on the North East Line, followed by a short walk of about 5-10 minutes. By taxi or ride-hail, expect roughly 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Travellers arriving via Changi International Airport (SIN) can reach the area by MRT with a change of lines, a journey of around 45 minutes to an hour.
Time to allow
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes here, enough to view the Gopuram, walk around the courtyard, and see the interior shrines.
When to go
Mornings tend to be quieter. The temple sees noticeably more activity during Hindu festivals, particularly around Thaipusam, when the surrounding streets also get busy. Dress modestly, as is expected at any active place of worship.
Combine it with
The temple sits within easy walking distance of the rest of Little India (0.7km), making it simple to pair with a stroll through the district's shops and eateries. For a broader cultural walk, Masjid Malabar (0.9km) and Masjid Abdul Gaffoor (1km) are both close by, with Masjid Sultan (1.3km) a bit further and easily added to a half-day itinerary covering both Little India and the edge of Kampong Glam.
Sources: open data from Wikipedia and OpenStreetMap · Updated August 5, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
