Top 10 Singapore Attractions Not To Miss
10 Islands in Singapore Too Beautiful to Miss in 2022
Singapore is known for its skyscrapers, beaches, and shopping malls. But there are some places you shouldn’t miss while you’re here. And one of those places is definitely the island of Sentosa. We’ve rounded up the top 10 best islands in Singapore and why we think each one deserves a spot on your list.
1. Pulau Tekong – This small island is located off the coast of Sentosa Island. It’s home to several hiking trails, beautiful views, and many species of birds and wildlife.
2. Pulau Ubin – Located just north of downtown Singapore, Pulau Ubin offers tons of recreational activities like cycling, walking, bird watching, fishing, and even camping.
3. Pulau Bintan – A little further out from Singapore, Pulau Bintan is home to the iconic Tanjung Pinang Lighthouse.
4. Pulau Batam – Just south of Singapore, Pulau Batam is home to the world famous Universal Studios theme park. They offer day passes that include unlimited rides.
5. Pulau Tioman – One of the most popular islands in Malaysia, Pulau Tioman is situated about 50 kilometers away from Penang. If you’re looking for something quiet and relaxing, this might be the place for you.
6. Pulau Langkawi – Another Malaysian island, Pulau Langkawi is well-known for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. There are lots of things to do with this island as well.
7. Pulau Pemuteran – Located about an hour outside of Bali, Pulau Pemuterans is home to the impressive Gunung Agung volcano.
8. Pulau Daya – Just east of Johor Bahru, Pulau Daya is home to the second largest waterfall in Southeast Asia, the Teluk Dalam Waterfall.
9. Pulau Rawa – Off the coast of Kedah lies the smallest but probably the prettiest island in all of Malaysia, Pulau Rawa. The white sand beach is ideal for sunbathing.
10. Pulau Betong – Just west of Sabah lies the tiny but stunning Pulau Betong. Its white sand beach is perfect for swimming and surfing.
1. Sentosa Island
2. St John’s Island
3. Kusu Island
4. Pulau Hantu
5. Lazarus Island
6. Sisters’ Island
7. Coney Island
8. Chek Jawa
9. Pulau Ubin
10. Pulau Satumu
Top 10 Gorgeous Temples in Singapore to Visit
1. Thian Hock Keng Temple
The Palais de la Foi (“Palace of Faith”) is a famous landmark in downtown Singapore. Located along South Bridge Road near the city’s financial district, the building is dedicated to the goddess Mazu, the patron deity of seafarers. Its construction began in 1821 and took nearly 20 years to complete.
Thian Hock Keng (“Temple of Celestial Happiness”), as it is commonly known, is one of the largest temples in Singapore. It is located within the grounds of the original palace, alongside the historic Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall. Devotees flock here throughout the year to pay homage to Mazu, whose birthday falls on November 13th each year.
2. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Opened amidst much fanfare in 2007 as part of the city’s 50th anniversary celebrations, Singapore’s famed Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Musem is today, one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist attractions. Located in the heart of Chinatown, it is also widely regarded as one of the best museums in the region.
A must-visit too, the temple and museum boasts a collection of artifacts spanning over 2,500 years. Its highlights include rare Buddhist statues, intricate goldwork, exquisite ceramics, elaborate woodcarvings, and even some fascinating religious paintings.
The temple’s origins trace back to the late 19th century when it served as a place of worship for the local Chinese population. Today, however, it is best known for housing a priceless piece of Buddhist history: a Buddha tooth relic found in Myanmar in 1980. This artifact is considered sacred due to the fact that it is believed to contain the Buddha’s original teeth.
When visiting, don’t forget to make time for the museum located on the same premises. Here you’ll find a rich array of ancient sculptures, paintings, and calligraphy.
3. Sri Mariamman Temple
The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, the Sri Mariamman Temple is located along Upper Bukit Timah Rd, off North Bridge Rd. The temple was established by Southern Indian businessman Naraina Pillai in the early 19th century.
Just a few minutes’ walk away from the temple is a bustling neighbourhood known as Little India. Here, there are numerous shops selling traditional goods such as saris, silk threads, sandalwood incense sticks, and spices.
Among the most famous places within the area is the Sri Mariamman Devasthanam, a six-tiered gopuram (pagoda). This spectacular structure dates back to the late 1800s and was built under the supervision of the renowned British architect George Drumgoole Coleman.
There is also a statue of Lord Muruga, one of the primary deities worshipped in the region.
4. Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery
Singapore’s largest Buddhist temple is somewhat an exotic Buddhist wonderland nestled in the heart of Singapore’s central district. Originally a small forest temple, it is today a sprawling complex encompassing multiple halls, several ponds, a decorative corridor, a huge golden stupas, and even a large hall where monks conduct elaborate venerations ceremonies every year on Vesak Day.
Among Singaporeans, Kong Meng Shan is also referred to as Bright Hill, the location of this site. And since it is located just off Orchard Road, it is easily accessible to tourists.
5. Lian Shan Shuang Lin Temple
Buddhist and Taoist divinities are often venerated in the same temple complex in Singapore, as they are in other Chinese temples. There is a notable example of this in the Lian Shan Shuang Lin complex in the Toa Payoh residential district.
Lian Shan Cheng Huang Miao, an airy shrine devoted to worshiping Taoist city gods and numerous other Chinese deities, is an official monastery, but is actually a huge shrine. Architecturally, the main monastery is also a tranquil paradise, with design elements similar to those found in temples found in Southern Chinese provinces such as Fujian and Zhangzhou.
Its fabulous seven-tiered gold-topped pagoda is also a favorite of tourists who enjoy photography. Against the backdrop of Singapore’s famous public housing blocks, this religious landmark is sure to provide a picture that will be unique and distinctive.
From the North South Line, it is a 15 minute walk to Toa Payoh MRT Station. Getting around the temple will require a map due to the dense housing blocks surrounding it.
Maha Sasana Ramsi’s main altar is still a sight to behold despite not being as ornate as the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple.
Meditation is available on the upper level for all visitors. Within the premises, Buddhist booklets are also available for free.
6. Maha Sasana Ramsi (Burmese Buddhist Temple)
In spite of being one of the smaller temples on this list, Maha Sasana Ramsi is the oldest and only Burmese temple in Singapore. This large pure marble Buddha statue, the largest outside of Myanmar, was built in 1875 by Burmese immigrant U Thar Hnin.
Besides the Bodhi tree, the grounds also contain a spacious meditation hall and a standing Buddha statue in the shape of a glide. Furthermore, the restored Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall is located beside Maha Sasana Ramsi, making it very convenient for tourists. It takes less than an hour to visit both places.
Toa Payoh MRT Station on the North South Line is a rather complicated walk from Maha Sasana Ramsi. From the Toa Payoh MRT station, you can take a taxi.
Toa Payoh Seu Teck Sean Tong’s main entrance still evokes a sense of adventure, despite neighboring constructions somewhat obscuring the view today.
Journey to the West fans, here’s your challenge! From the paintings flanking the main altar, how many episodes can you identify?
7. Toa Payoh Seu Teck Sean Tong
The small temple nestled inside the Toa Payoh housing estate is actually a Buddhist temple called “Seu Teck Sean Tong,” which translates roughly into English as “the Temple of Celestial Peace.”
Located on the second floor of a building within the complex, the temple offers a number of activities including meditation sessions, talks and workshops, and children’s programs.
However, it is the towering entryway that really stands out.
While most temples tend to use simple stone columns to support their roof structure, this particular temple uses a massive pair of curved pillars to form a grand archway.
This architectural style is known as “Wang Xing”, or “Celestial Palace”.
And while there are many such examples throughout China, this particular example is unique to Singapore.
8. Leong San See
Leong San See is a Buddhist temple located in Chinatown, Singapore. It is the largest temple in Singapore dedicated to Mahayana Buddhism. With over 2,500 Buddhas enshrined within it, Leong San See attracts many tourists and worshippers alike.
The temple was built in 1887 during the British colonial period. In 1927, the temple became part of the newly established Malayan Union and since then has been under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
9. Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple
The Temple of 1,000 Lightbulbs literally sits atop a hill overlooking the city skyline. Located within walking distance of the bustling Chinatown district, the temple dates back to 1833 and is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Singapore.
According to the temple’s website, the temple is dedicated to “the Great Compassionate One”, and offers daily prayers and meditation sessions. Visitors can also take part in religious ceremonies such as the making of offerings, chanting sutras and reciting mantras.
10. Sri Krishnan Temple
At the fringe of the Bugi heritage district lies Sri Krishnan Temple, situated along Upper Cross Street. This small, humble temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his beloved wife Rukmini is one of the oldest temples in Singapore. Established in 1847, the temple underwent extensive restoration work in 2018, restoring the original architecture of the temple complex while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the temple.
The temple features colorful eye-catching sculptures of deities and other figures depicting the stories of Lord Krishna and his love for Rukmini. The temple is also home to a large statue of Lord Krishna, which is believed to be the largest bronze sculpture in Southeast Asia. There is also a beautiful fountain located outside the main entrance of the temple, which adds to the overall charm of the place.
With its history dating back over 150 years, the temple is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in learning about Singapore’s multiculturalism.
Access Information: The nearest MTR station is Rochor Station on the East West Line.
10 Landmarks in Singapore You Shouldn’t Miss
For many people, Singapore conjures up images of high-rises, neon lights, and overpriced shopping malls – but there’s much more to this small island state than meets the eye. Singapore’s diversity and cultural vibrancy attracts tourists from around the globe, and even locals love to go here too. Here are 10 must-see attractions that will make sure you don’t miss out on what makes Singapore such a unique travel destination.
1. Gardens By The Bay Gardens By The Bay is an oasis of calm in the middle of bustling Singapore. Explore this lush park and discover its beautiful botanical gardens, rainforests, conservatories, museums, art galleries, restaurants, fountains, pools, children’s playground, zoo, and water theme park.
2. Chinatown Heritage Centre Singapore’s historic district is a great place to learn about the country’s Chinese heritage. Step inside the center and see how the Chinese once lived and worked in Singapore. Admire the old opium paraphernalia, watch a short film on the history of Chinese immigration, and enjoy a delicious meal of dim sum.
3. National Gallery Singapore This gallery boasts a collection of over 9,000 works of art spread across seven exhibition halls. They range from ancient Indian sculptures to modern paintings by European masters. See rare artifacts from the royal family, religious icons, and classical Chinese art.
4. Tanah Merah MRT Station Tanah Merah MRT station is located near the heart of Singapore’s colonial district. Just a few steps away from this train station, you’ll find several interesting sights including Raffles Place Market, Kampong Glam, and Clarke Quay. Take a stroll along the waterfront, try some local dishes, and drink a cup of coffee.
5. Sri Mariamman Temple One of Singapore’s holiest Hindu temples, Sri Mariamman temple stands for almost 200 years. Its huge golden statue of goddess Mariamman is surrounded by colorful prayer flags and contains numerous shrines.
6. Central Business District (CBD)After World War II, British planners designed the Central Business District (Cbd) to resemble downtown London. Today, this area of Singapore still retains its original Victorian buildings and white picket fences. It’s now considered as one of the world’s most prestigious business centers.
7. Marina Barrage The Marina Barrage is the third largest man-made structure in the world. At 50 meters wide, it covers two square kilometers of land in the south of Singapore and connects the city’s southern islands with the mainland. Boats heading between Singapore’s three southern islands and the main island can pass through the barrage.
8. Chinatown Heritage Center Chinatown Heritage Center is a museum in Singapore dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the nation’s Chinese community. Inside the center, you can walk down memory lane while taking in exhibits on traditional arts and handicrafts, as well as a display on the lives of early immigrants who came from China.
9. Asian Civilizations Museum The Asian Civilizations Museum offers a glimpse into the history of Asia. Among other things, visitors can explore the origins of agriculture in Southeast Asia, religion and superstition in India, and the way commerce has developed in Thailand.
10. Old Supreme Court Building Built in 1829, the Old Supreme Court building was where British judges would arrive each day after traveling from their homes in England. The site of the current courthouse is believed to be the former location of a Malay sultan’s palace.
1. The most famous landmark in Singapore: Merlion Park
The iconic Merlion statue is a must-see attraction in Singapore. Located in Merlion Park near Marina Square, the statue stands nearly 30 feet tall and depicts a creature with the head and torso of a lion and the tail of a fish. It is considered one of the biggest tourist attractions in the Southeast Asian city-state.
2. A Singapore landmark that puts nature and innovation to work: Super tree Grove
Gardens By The Bay is home to one of the world’s largest urban forest systems. In fact, it’s the largest single manmade tree collection in the entire world. But did you know there are over 18 Supertrees here? These massive trees are located throughout the park and range anywhere from 12 to 50 metres tall. They’re also very unique because they’re actually mechanized—they’re powered by wind turbines and water pumps that allow the trees to grow upwards.
The Supertree Grove is one of the best things about Gardens By The Bay; however, many visitors don’t realize just how big the park really is. If you want to see everything Gardens By The Bay has to offer, check out our 14+ hour video tour of the park, which includes highlights like Cloud Forest Adventure, Flower Dome, Butterfly Garden, KidZania, Night Safari, SEA Aquarium, Science Centre, and much more.
3. The most famous building in Singapore: Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands is one of the most iconic buildings in Singapore. Not only does it boast the world’s biggest rooftop infinity pool, 200 meters high Jacuzzi, and incredible skyline views, but it’s also home to the world’s highest casino, the SkyPark Observation Deck, where you can take in jaw-dropping views of the city.
4. Gather some social media clout at the Insta-worthy Cloud Forest
The entrance to Cloud Forest is located in Gardens by the Bay, which is one of the most popular attractions in Singapore. This lush green space is home to the world’s tallest supertrees — towering trees that are over 200 meters tall.
Cloud Forest is a 35-metre-high mountain of greenery, complete with streams of water flowing down its sides. There are no stairs here; visitors must climb a spiral staircase to reach the peak.
There are many things you’ll want to see while at Cloud Forest, including the Super trees, a canopy walkway and a waterfall. You can even take a dip in the cooling waters.
5. The most serene landmark in Singapore: Kranji War Memorial
Singaporeans are proud of their city state’s peaceful image. But there’s no denying that the island nation had a dark side during World War II. This war memorial in Kranji Village tells the story of how Singapore fell into enemy hands.
The memorial features three bronze statues representing the three branches of government during the war. At the center stands a statue of General Yamashita Tomoyuki, commander of the Imperial Japanese Army forces in Southeast Asia. He’s flanked by two soldiers standing guard. On his left is a soldier holding a rifle, while on his right is a man holding a sword.
This is where things start getting interesting. A group of people dressed in traditional Chinese attire stand behind the general. They’re wearing red headbands, white pants, black shoes and jackets with gold buttons. One of the men holds up what looks like a ceremonial fan. Behind him, another man carries a box. The third person appears to be carrying something heavy.
A closer look reveals that he’s actually carrying a large wooden pole. It’s covered in flowers and leaves, and it’s topped off with a wreath. There are also several flags fluttering in the wind.
In front of the general is a stone wall engraved with the names of those who died during the Battle of Singapore. Their faces are carved out of the rock.
6. Historical landmarks in Singapore: Raffles Landing Site and Raffles Hotel
The landing site where Stamford Raffles landed in 1819 is now marked by a monument and a museum. The former British Colonial administration building is now called the National Monument.
Raffles Landing Site
This is the place where Stamford Raffles came ashore in 1819. A small memorial stands here to commemorate his arrival.
National Monument
This is the building where the colonial administration used to operate. Today it houses the National Heritage Centre, which tells the story of Singapore’s history.
Raffles Hotel
Stamford Raffles died in 1824, but his legacy lived on. His hotel still operates today.
7. An up-and-coming landmark in Singapore: Henderson Waves
In the late 1990s, the government of Singapore was looking to build something special. They wanted to make a statement about how much they loved nature. So they commissioned landscape architect Ian Ballantine to design a bridge that would span across the mouth of Marina Bay. He came up with the idea of building a series of waterfalls that would cascade down the hillside into a large basin, where visitors could stand and watch them flow over the edge.
This project became known as Henderson Waves, named after the street it sits on, Henderson Road. It opened to the public in 2001, and today stands 36 meters tall. The structure consists of four concrete steps leading up to the main deck, which itself leads to a single central step which descends into the basin. At the bottom of the staircase lies a wide walkway that runs along the shoreline of Marina Bay. On either side are the waterfalls themselves, each one cascading down five separate levels. The total length of the falls is 2,500 feet, making it the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.
8. The most thrilling Singapore landmark: Universal Studios Singapore
Universal Studios Singapore is one of the world’s largest themed entertainment destinations. Located just off Orchard Road, it boasts over 50 rides and attractions, including the iconic Studio Tour, featuring a walk-through experience where you’ll see how movies are made. And if that wasn’t enough, there’s also Universal City Walk, which features restaurants, retail shops and live entertainment venues.
The park opened in 2010 and has since become a major tourist attraction, drawing more than 10 million guests annually.
9. Home to some of the oldest buildings in Singapore: Clarke Quay
Clarke Quay is home to some of the oldest structures in Singapore. In fact, it’s one of the most historic areas in the city-state. Built in 1887, it used to serve as a port for cargo ships traveling between Asia and Australia. Today, it’s a popular destination for foodies and tourists alike.
The waterfront promenade is lined with colorful heritage shophouses that run alongside a picturesque river. These quaint old homes are adorned with beautiful murals and elaborate window displays. They’re perfect places to stop and people watch. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can grab a bite to eat. And don’t miss out on the many cultural offerings like art galleries, museums, theaters, and festivals.
10. Love history, food, and drinks? CHIJMES is the Singapore landmark for you!
The Convent of the Holy Child Jesus (CHIJ), located along Victoria Street, was originally established in 1847. In 1899, the nuns moved out and handed over the building to the government. After World War II, the building became a secondary school for boys called Raffles Institution.
In 1969, the school closed down and the building was converted into a convent. But the convent did not remain empty for long. A group of people saw the potential of the old building and decided to convert it into a hotel. They named it Hotel CHIJMES.
When we visited the hotel, we found out that there are several things to do here besides just staying at the hotel. There are restaurants, cafes, bars, and even a museum. You can find everything under one roof.
We stayed in Room 904, which cost us $1,300 per night. We had access to free Wi-Fi throughout our entire stay. The room itself was very spacious and comfortable. Our bed was super soft and the pillows were fluffy.
There are four rooms in each wing of the hotel, and we chose to stay in Wing B. We liked the location because it was near Orchard Road, where we could shop for souvenirs and eat some good local cuisine.
Our favorite part about the hotel was the rooftop bar. It was a great place to unwind and enjoy a drink. The views were amazing, especially during sunset.
If you like history, I recommend that you check out the museum inside the hotel. It contains relics from the early days of Singapore, including a display of old photos and documents.
