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Things to do in Singapore, Singapore: The Best Sacred & Religious Sites
The Singapore cityscape looks like it was ripped from the pages of a science fiction comic book. If you’re hungry for a true Singapore experience, sample the myriad street foods or take a cultural cooking class. The Botanic Gardens and the Gardens By the Bay offer a slice of horticultural heaven, and the observation deck of the Sands SkyPark makes you feel like you’re high above the clouds. The banks and walkways along the Singapore River bustle with local activity.
Restaurants in Singapore
1. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,424 reviews
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum (BTRTM) was founded in 2002 by Venerable Shi Fazhao. It was registered by the Registrar of Societies in 20th February 2003, and as a charity under the Charities Act in 8th January 2004. The Temple is dedicated to the Maitreya Buddha, which means 'The Compassionate One', and also called 'The Future Buddha'. (A)WEEKLY FREE GUIDED TOUR: BTRTM is pleased to offer a 1 1/2 - 2 hrs long guided tour of the Temple every Saturdays at 2pm. The tour will be conducted free-of-charge in English by the temple's Volunteers guides. Limited slots are available per weekly session. Confirmed registration is based on first-come-first-serve basis. (B)DISCOVERING BUDDHISM: Shakyanmuni Buddha had gained insight into the truth, perfected the qualities of wisdom and compassion over 2560 years ago. His teachings develops clarity in minds, enables abilities to end suffering and finds lasting happiness. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is carrying on the mission in offering "Discovering Buddhism' programme. 'Discovering Buddhism' is a specially designed programme for participants to gain experiential taste of Chinese Mahayana Buddhist etiquette, Basic Buddhist teachings and Basic Meditation within a day. This English taught programme is suitable for both tourists who wish to learn more about Buddhism and experienced learners who needs a refresher. Participants will benefit from the interactive and engaging teaching led by Venerable Wu Xiang and Venerable Ru Zhi who have more than a decade experience teaching Buddhism and Meditation in different cultural settings! [Chinese Mahayana Buddhist Etiquette] Buddhist etiquette is an important part of every Buddhist life. It expresses religious sentiments to the Buddha, the Teacher (Monk or Nun) and promotes gracefulness in social interactions. This is also a mean of training in mindfulness in every action one is taking. [Basic Buddhist teachings] Buddhism has been transmitted over the past centuries because of its timeless and enduring message to the spiritual needs of man in finding true peace, happiness, and well-being. In this part of the programme, learn about the basic essential knowledge of Buddhism. [Basic Meditation] Buddhist have been practicing meditation in cultivating calm, focused and positive states of mind. Introductory of technique will be taught to enable the participants to learn practical tips on how to achieve a clearer state of mind and focus better. Things to take note : * Avoid wearing hats, shorts or revealing tops * The organizer reserves the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such instances, registrants will be notified via their mobile phones.
Reviewed By cl41r3 - Nottingham, United Kingdom
This temple has so much to view. From the main hall where there were prayers being read, to the walkways around the temple showing the history, artefacts, statues, and smaller prayer/ meditation areas. There are many floors and even a roof garden where you can ring the prayer bell. It is an incredible place. I’d highly recommend a visit if visiting Singapore. There is a dress code but if you are not wearing appropriate clothing there is access to sarongs and scarfs to use during the visit
2. Chesed-El Synagogue
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 8 reviews
Reviewed By Kim025Singapore - Singapore, Singapore
I went on a guided tour arranged by National Monument Board. This beautiful building was built in 1905 by Mr Manasseh Meyer. A.J. Bidwell of Swan and Maclaren, designed it in the late Renaissance style. The facade features ornate floral plasterwork. At the entrance is a three-arched carriage porch. There are large arched windows throughout the building. In the interior there are arks which are oriented westwards to face Jerusalem. The Torah scrolls are stored in the arks which is a form of decorated receptacles. In the middle of the prayer hall is the bimah, a podium from where the rabbi leads the congregational prayers.
3. Armenian Church
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 111 reviews
Take a walk in the lush gardens of the Armenian Church before entering the church and admire the exterior architecture. Breathing history and rich heritage the Armenian Church of St. Gregory the Illuminator is the oldest Church of Singapore and is a gazetted National Monument.
Reviewed By jeanettem190 - Cairns, Australia
The Armenian Church, more correctly called St Gregory the Illuminator's Armenian Catholic Church is conveniently situated between Fort Canning Park, Orchard Rd and the Padang. The first thing you'll notice is how small the church is! Perhaps that's a reflection of the tiny size of the early Armenian population of Singapore. It was designed by George Coleman; an Irishman who was the best in the business in those days. Have a good look at the imposing Doric columns out front, and the handy (and typically Singaporean) covered drive through porch; ideal for letting the ladies and gents get out of their carriages in a pouring rainstorm. Inside you'll see the dome over the sanctuary; a typical Armenian architectural feature. Be sure to visit the graveyard (or perhaps 'memorial garden'; I think the remains have been moved). You can visit Miss Joaquin's gravestone. She's the young lady who is credited with creating the Vanda Miss Joaquin orchid; the national flower of Singapore. They have a nice example of this orchid climbing alongside Miss Joaquin's grave stone. Have a look at the other gravestones featuring traditional Armenian decorative art and lots of writing in the Armenian alphabet. You'll also see the church office tucked away in the back. This building was the original priest's residence.
4. Abdul Gaffoor Mosque
5. Thian Hock Keng Temple
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 306 reviews
The Thian Hock Keng Temple was erected in 1821 by seamen grateful for safe passage, and stands where Singapore's waterfront used to be, before the land was reclaimed.
Reviewed By Ginnyleeinwonderland - Hai Phong, Vietnam
It was a very old temple in China town near Amoy street. I was there to pray at the end of Chinese new year and the second day of Chinese new year. The place was always crowded with local people and tourists. At the opposite site of the road, there was a building, on top of that building, they design it like the image of eyes looking down from the sky. Although it was crowded, everything was so calm inside. On the right side, there was a wishing well. I saw some European throw coins there but it was not the way they should do to make a wish. Long time ago, people used to drink water from the well believing that water was blessed. Right now, they didn't drink water from the well anymore. They just ring the bells, each bell was a symbol of a wish, then put the hands together and wish. The letters on the bells were Chinese so I couldn't read. I dragged my phone out to use Google translate in order to know that they mean. The security guy saw me and thought that I was taking pictures so he came to me and reminded me not to take pictures. I explained what I was doing so he stopped and translated for me although they were about to close. He was so helpful and kind
6. Sultan Mosque
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,065 reviews
A century later in 1928, Denis Santry, an architect of Swan and McLaren, employed the Islamic-Saracenic style that combines ideas from Indian and Islamic traditions, designing a Mosque that incorporated the use of minarets and balusters.
Reviewed By papillon1931 - Wellington, New Zealand
The very impressive Masjid Sultan is located near the centre of Kampong Glam and is a magnificent structure. Non-Muslims are made very welcome and although all visitors must be properly attired, robes are available at the mosque counter and are issued on first come first serve basis. There is a series of excellent information panels inside the mosque and very friendly "volunteers" are on hand to provide further information and discussion, if wanted, in a very pleasant environment. Outside the mosque there is a profusion of eateries - well worth a visit.
7. Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 549 reviews
Built in 1855 by Tamil labourers, the temple has a South Indian architectural style. The gopuram or tower, a common element in South Indian temple architecture, was built at a height so that it can be seen from a distance.
Reviewed By GroverR - Pensacola, United States
Located in the heart of Little India on Serangoon Road, Sri Veeramakaliamman is the most prominent and popular Hindu Temple. For me Little India is temples and food. I do not know if this is the oldest as some claim but I can assure you it was the most popular. We visited just after seeing Sri Srinivasa and the crowds here were vastly greater. Sri Srinivasa was extremely colorful with a very high Gopuram; however, the details at Sri Veeramakaliamman both inside and out were amazing. The thing that caught my eye here was this was the only Gopuram where the figures had gold features. When the sun hits it, the figures sparkle. The other part was the detail inside was much more exquisite and decorative. Sri Veeramakaliamman is to Hindu temples as Baroque/Rococo is to European churches. Its dripping in figures and symbols. I must confess that I really did not understand it all; however, for the cultural and enjoyment value, this is the best Hindu temple to visit and our favorite in Singapore
8. Sri Mariamman Temple
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,030 reviews
Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple is also one of the most popular thanks to its proximity to Chinatown and its colorful exterior. Admission is free, though a donation is requested of those taking photographs. An annual fire-walking ceremony is held here every October or November.
Reviewed By CandaceT145 - Singapore, Singapore
This is a beautiful Hindu temple located right outside Chinatown mrt. There are always devotes praying and tourists going in to take a look. Remember to dress modestly and shoes have to be taken off at the entrance.
9. Kuan Yin Thong Hood Cho Temple
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 182 reviews
Reviewed By CandaceT145 - Singapore, Singapore
This temple is visited by local and tourists and always crowded. It is good to give thank for the good things that happened/ going to happen in our life and pray for good health, career and children etc. There are vendors outside the temple selling flowers, joss sticks for offerings. Some people will also meditate/ Chant prayed in this temple. Highly recommended but the tourists need to be respectful of the people praying there.
10. St Andrew's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 402 reviews
St Andrew’s Cathedral is one of Singapore’s most treasured works of architecture. Gazetted as a national monument on 1973, you’ll stand in awe at its majestic facade, with extended pinnacles and a glossy white exterior. Take a coffee break and enjoy our free wifi at The Cathedral Cafe which is conveniently located beside the City Hall MRT entrance (North Bridge Road).
Reviewed By GroverR - Pensacola, United States
In the center of Singapore is the cornerstone of British colonialism, a gorgeous, sparkling white, neo-gothic Anglican church. As an Episcopalian, we had to visit for a service and we greatly enjoyed. While the exterior is stunning white against a lush green environment, the interior is a beautiful balance of shades of blue with natural wood and white. I will also say the service was truly worldly with a English rector, Nigerian associate and a congregation of Chinese parishioners. For us it was one of the highlights of our visit to Singapore. However, even if you are not an Anglican, it is an impressive house of worship.
