Independent hotels in Geylang

Singapore is renowned for its strict order to everything. However, the Geylang neighbourhood seems to be the only place on the island that doesn’t follow this trend. The main streets and lorongs are home to lines of historic shophouses, some of which remain merchant stores, while others have been transformed into modern stores, cafés, restaurants and even inns. Geylang is also famous for being Singapore’s ‘red light district’.

Geylang is short on tourist attractions. Nevertheless, there are some interesting things to see and do inside the district.

Tourists must spend a few hours strolling through this historic neighbourhood. Geylang Road is the main thoroughfare, and certainly boasts plenty of heritage-soaked shophouses. However, it’s the small side streets that tourists shouldn’t forget about.

Visitors can explore the many religious sites along Geylang Road. This multicultural neighbourhood is home to the tranquil Foo Hai Ch’an Monastery, which boasts bonsai trees and peaceful Buddha statues. Next door is another religious site known as the Sri Sivan Temple. It is regularly visited by Hindu worshippers and visitors keen on its intricate design.

While visiting Geylang, tourists are encouraged to head around the corner to the area of Joo Chiat. This adjacent neighbourhood is the main Perankan community in Singapore. Guests are greeted by 100-year-old shophouses that provide local delicacies, handicrafts and more.

The district is home to an enormous range of restaurants and cafés, with a variety of different cuisines. Chinese, Malay and Indian food can all be found here, including rice, dumpling, curry, soups and noodle dishes. Satay skewers are extremely popular here. The chilli crab dishes are said to be the best in Singapore too. Durian, that famous sweet yet strong-smelling fruit, is also in abundance in Geylang, and certainly worth a try. Some of the shophouses have been converted into small pubs, karaoke bars and even working-girl venues, all all offer a lively evening for visitors and locals. Geylang Road is lined with restaurants and pubs.

Tourists won’t find any sprawling shopping malls in Geylang. Instead, shopping is found among the older-style shophouses. There are many different stores operating along Geylang Road. Some of these are traditional merchants who offer fabrics and other wares. However, there are plenty of newer spots that offer trendy clothes and accessories too. The nearby Geylang Serai Market is home to a range of cheap goods that should not be passed up.