Singapore’s Hidden Gem: Jalan Besar, Singapore, Singapore

Once a swampland filled with vegetable gardens, Jalan Besar has risen among the in-the-know crowds as the grittier, up-and-coming sister to the hip Tiong Bahru neighborhood.

Just adjacent to the famed Little India ethnic enclave, Jalan Besar is equally vibrant and can be an interesting alternative for those looking to find hiddem gems slightly off the usual path.

This trail starts from Farrer Park MRT and ends at Jalan Besar MRT. Along the way, discover a plethora of impressive eateries, gelato bars, cool art spaces and vibrant lifestyle precinct hidden among the beautifully-decorated shophouses and heritage temples.

This 1885 temple is one of the oldest and most prominent in Singapore. Its tall gopuram (tower) portrays different incarnations of Lord Vishnu, while the interior comes with statues of Lord Vishnu, his consorts and his garuda bird.

Dubbed the Temple of 1,000 Lights, this is one of Singapore’s most visited Buddhist temples. Its highlight is a 15-metre Buddha statue which weighs nearly 300 tons, as well as murals depicting the life of Shakyamuni Buddha. Established in 1924, there are also Thai influences in its architecture. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).