Kampong Gelam is widely known for two iconic sites. The Sultan Mosque is one, which is the most revered mosque in Singapore. Istana Kampung Gelam, the palace of the former Sultan, is the other. Exploring Kampong Gelam is a unique way to appreciate Singapore's multicultural heritage. This vibrant landscape reflects the history of Singapore through its architecture, cuisine, and shopfronts.
The Sultan Mosque
This historic mosque is a must-see if you’re in Kampong Gelam. Also known as Arab Street Mosque, this iconic building has several domes, including a large golden dome and a large prayer hall. Take a moment to inspect the onion-shaped domes. Each dome base is decorated with glass bottle ends, donated by lower-income Muslims during its construction so that all Muslims could contribute. The mosque glitters in the sunlight with glass bottle ends.
Istana Kampong Gelam
Close to the Arab Street Mosque is Istana Kampong Gelam, the palace of the Sultan. Designed following a classical European architecture, Istana Kampong Gelam is a sight to behold with its symmetrical plan. A notable feature of the palace is its circular arches that greet the visitor at the entrance porch. The colonnade is a throwback to the ancient Greek order. The large roof, with sunshade eaves and timber-louver windows, was purposely designed to withstand the tropical climes. This offers not only architectural magnificence but also non-invasive ventilation.
Arab Street
If you are in Singapore, looking out for artistic excellence, then Arab Street is a must-visit. Arab Street is Kampong Gelam's cultural heart. Visit Arab Street to experience its diverse ethnic influences, with an array of authentic Middle-Eastern stores and eateries, as well as the iconic Arab Street Mosque.
Haji Lane
What is so exceptional about Haji Lane is that it is the narrowest street in Singapore. The lane resembles a museum showcasing the country’s rich and diverse culture. As you walk through the shopfronts, you will naturally find out the unique style that adorn them. In fact, it is a visual therapy for anyone with artistic taste.
Feast for Foodies
Foodies taking a stroll around the neighbourhood will find local delicacies and global dishes to feed their cravings for new flavours. With locally-sourced ingredients, innovative chefs and an everchanging menu, you are sure to be surprised by what food you find in this neighbourhood’s restaurants.
Busy Night for Night Owls
With the sun setting behind you, you’ll be able to shop until you drop. Kampong Gelam takes on a whole new life at night with live music bars and hip restaurants abound along Haji Lane. In the shadow of Kampong Glam's heritage buildings and colonial history, a bohemian revolution has taken place. With its bohemian edge, Kampong Glam is the perfect place to let your hair down. Until recently most of the area’s nightlife centred around apple tea and shishas in the area’s alcohol-free cafes. The recent influx of boutique cocktail bars and restaurants has attracted a trendy crowd keen to try these edgy establishments.
Shopping Spree
One of the best things to do in Kampong Gelam, and there’s no place here more exciting to visit than Arab Street, Haji Lane, and Bussorah Street. Head to Arab Street for its abundance of carpet and fabric shops, Bussorah Street for a string of souvenir shops, Haji Lane for vintage clothing boutiques. These quirky shops offer a unique shopping experience.
Staycation
Kampong Gelam is traditionally associated with budget accommodation. Budget travellers to Singapore have a wide choice of accommodation options from colonial-style hotels like the Sultan, shophouses to boutique hotels such as the Park View.