Singapore, a vibrant melting pot of cultures, offers a plethora of attractions for history buffs, cultural enthusiasts, and casual tourists alike. Among these, the Indian Heritage Centre Singapore (IHC) stands out as a beacon of Indian culture, history, and contributions to the city’s societal fabric. Opened in May 2015, the IHC has quickly become a must-visit destination for those keen to explore the rich tapestry of the Indian community in Singapore. Powered by the community’s voices, recollections, and contributions, the Centre offers an intimate, contemplative experience through its exhibitions, interactive displays, and year-round events.
The Journey Begins: Exploring the Indian Heritage Centre
A Trip Through Time
Your adventure at the IHC begins with a step back into the ancient interactions between South and Southeast Asia, documented from the 1st century. The Centre’s story unfurls into multiple threads, showcasing the Indian diaspora’s footprint across continents and their contributions to Singapore. With the help of holograms, virtual guides, and interactive gameplay, visitors are guaranteed an engaging experience. The Centre’s thoughtful incorporation of behind-the-scenes research exercises ensures fresh insights are continuously shared, making each visit a unique experience.
The Building: An Architectural Marvel
The IHC’s four-storey building is an attraction in itself, reflecting the past while embracing the present. Inspired by the baoli, a traditional Indian stepwell, the building’s facade features a unique trellis of steps and balconies. This design invites visitors to “walk in the footsteps” of yesteryear Indians, creating a bridge between the historical and the contemporary. The facade’s transformation from a reflective surface in the day to a vibrant mural at night pays homage to the kaleidoscopic streets of Little India, making the IHC a standout feature in Singapore’s architectural landscape.
Book Your Tickets to Indian Heritage Centre Singapore Online
To be sure that everything will go smoothly you can book tickets online via Klook!
Permanent Exhibitions: A Tapestry of Tales
Early Contact: South and Southeast Asia Interactions
The journey through the IHC’s galleries starts with the early interactions between South Asian and Southeast Asian cultures. Ancient sculptures and artefacts unravel the complex cross-cultural exchanges, highlighting the intriguing intersections between religious influences and maritime trade routes.
Roots and Routes: Migration Stories
The second gallery invites visitors to explore the diverse stories of migration through the grand entrance of a Chettinad residence. This gallery is dense with intricate carvings, ceremonial gold, rubies, and textiles, each telling its own story of settlers’ varied rites of passage and cultural practices.
Pioneers: Early Indians in Singapore and Malaya
The stories of early settlers and their contributions to Singapore and Malaya are celebrated in the third gallery. It highlights the lives of pioneers like Navroji R. Mistri and William Lawrence Soma Basapa, showcasing their significant contributions alongside those of Tamil schools, media organisations, and religious and social organisations.
Social and Political Awakening
The fourth gallery examines the rise of nationalist movements and their effects on the local Indian community. It discusses the aftermath of World War II and the emergence of social reform movements, led by key community leaders.
Making of the Nation: Contributions of Indians
The final gallery pays homage to the Indian community’s contributions to Singapore’s multicultural and meritocratic society. It reflects on the recent history and looks towards the future, acknowledging the community’s role in nation-building across diverse fields.
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Engage and Embrace: Year-Round Activities
The IHC is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural hub offering a calendar full of performances, workshops, symposiums, masterclasses, and celebrations. These activities provide a platform for visitors to engage with and honour their roots, making the IHC a cornerstone of cultural education and celebration in Singapore.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Visit to the Indian Heritage Centre
Embarking on a journey to explore the rich tapestry of Indian culture and history at the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) in Singapore is an enriching experience. To ensure you make the most of your visit, here are key details and guidelines.
Location and Opening Hours of the Indian Heritage Centre Singapore?
Address: 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
Telephone: 6291 1601
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am to 6pm (Last admission: 5.30pm)
Note: The IHC is closed every Monday, including public holidays that fall on Monday, unless otherwise stated.
Admission Fees & Tickets to the Indian Heritage Centre Singapore
Singaporeans & Permanent Residents:
- Free admission for all Singaporeans & Permanent Residents (PRs)
Foreign Residents & Tourists:
- Adult: Admission charges apply to parents and helpers holding Dependent Pass & Employment Pass cards – $8.00
- Group of 20 pax & above: 20% discount.
- Seniors (60 years & above) and Students: $5.00
- Free admission for children under 6 years, Persons with Disabilities (PWD), 1st Caretaker of PWD
- Family Package of 5 (not exceeding 3 adults per family): $24.00
Valid identification card required upon request.
Tickets can be booked online at Klook.
How to Get to the Indian Heritage Centre Singapore?
By Bus:
- Bus stop 07031 at Serangoon Road in front of Tekka Centre.
Services: 23, 64, 65, 66, 67, 131, 139, 147, 857 - Bus stop 07539 at Sungei Road after Serangoon Road.
Services: 48, 56, 57, 131, 166, 170, 640, 960, 980.
By MRT:
- Alight at Little India MRT Station and use Exit E.
By Taxi/Car:
- The entrance to our building is on Campbell Lane, with the nearest drop-off point at Clive Street. Parking is available on Upper Dickson Road, in the basement of Tekka Centre, and in surrounding street lots.
Read Also: Taxi in Singapore & Grab: Fares, Booking & Tips for Your Trip 2024
Museum Etiquette
To ensure a pleasant visit for all, we ask guests to observe general museum etiquette:
- No food or drink is allowed in the galleries.
- Visitors are encouraged to move quietly through the galleries, fostering a contemplative space where everyone can fully engage with the stories, art, and historical objects on display.
Conclusion: Indian Heritage Centre Singapore
As you embark on this journey through the Indian Heritage Centre, you’re not just exploring a museum; you’re stepping into a story that weaves together the past, present, and future of the Indian community in Singapore. It’s a tale of migration, innovation, and contribution that continues to shape the nation’s identity. So, come along, there’s much to discover and celebrate at the Indian Heritage Centre.
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