Geylang is a unique neighbourhood where historic temples stand alongside neon-lit bars and nightclubs. While the district is famously home to Singapore’s red-light district, there’s plenty of history and culture to discover if you know where to look. Admire colourful Peranakan terrace houses, visit a fascinating local history museum and get lost in a bustling market.
Things to do in Geylang
Geylang is home to some of the most beautiful Peranakan terrace houses in Singapore. Painted in a rainbow of pastels, the terrace houses recall the grandeur of a bygone era. Marvel at the ornate “pintu pagar” swinging doors and admire facades decorated with colourful glazed tiles and statues of birds, dragons and marine life.
Learn more about Singapore’s Peranakan heritage at The Intan. The museum is housed in a heritage home and showcases an impressive collection of Peranakan artefacts, including hand-beaded slippers and embroidered textiles. You’ll also see a treasure trove of furniture, silverware and hand-painted vases on display.
Sri Sivan Temple towers over Geylang and is dedicated to Shiva, the Hindu God of Destruction. The temple dates back to the 1850s and features a trio of ornate towers. Walk around the grounds, admire the brightly coloured offerings and attend daily “pooja” prayers.
Comb through stalls selling tropical fruit, vegetables and spices at Geylang Serai Market. On the first floor is a traditional wet market brimming with meat and fish, while the second floor features food stalls where you can try mouth-watering Singapore dishes like “char kway teow” stir-fried noodles and Hainanese chicken rice served with spicy chilli sauce and crunchy cucumber.
Getting around Geylang
Geylang is easy to get around on foot or using the city’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) subway network. Stops in Geylang include Aljunied Station, Paya Lebar Station and Eunos Station. Singapore Changi Airport is a 30-minute drive away.