Discover a Different Side of Singapore: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures in the City

Singapore, often dubbed the “Jewel of Southeast Asia,” is not only famous for its modernity and cleanliness but also home to rich stories of history and culture. For curious travelers with a thirst for exploration, Singapore is a goldmine filled with fascinating hidden corners—from its colorful past to contemporary landmarks that reflect the pulse of our time. Join me as I uncover a different side of Singapore with an adventurous spirit.

Untold Stories of Keong Saik Road – Once a Red-Light District

When people think of Singapore’s red-light districts, Geylang usually comes to mind. But few know about Keong Saik Road—a lesser-known yet integral part of the country’s social history, especially during a more turbulent time in Singapore’s development.

Located in the Chinatown area, Keong Saik was the heart of the city’s red-light district back in the 1960s. Today, it has undergone a dramatic transformation and is now a vibrant creative neighborhood filled with stylish cafés, high-end restaurants, and boutique hotels. Yet, tucked away in its alleys are whispers of a storied past still waiting to be discovered.

What Makes Keong Saik So Fascinating

A Red-Light Past: Originally operated by Peranakan families, the brothels on Keong Saik were staffed by women trafficked from China. The elegant shophouses lining the street still retain their original architecture, bearing silent witness to this history.
Potato Head Singapore: A three-story building with unique architecture, it once served as a guesthouse for “special travelers.” Today, it’s a trendy bar known for its buzzing rooftop scene.
The Library: A hidden bar disguised as a bookstore—you’ll need the secret password to get in.
Cundhi Gong Temple: A sacred site where many Ma Je—unmarried Chinese women who migrated to Singapore to work and support families back home—once prayed and vowed lifelong celibacy.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Chinatown Station (DT19/NE4). Exit via Exit A and walk for about 10 minutes to reach Keong Saik Road.

Explore Battlebox Singapore – The Secret WWII Command Bunker

Hidden beneath Fort Canning Park, Battlebox is a former British underground command center built in 1936. It served as the venue for critical military meetings during World War II, including the infamous decision made by British General Percival to surrender to the Japanese in 1942.

Today, Battlebox offers an immersive historical experience for visitors keen on learning about one of Southeast Asia’s most significant wartime events. Not everyone is drawn to this side of Singapore, but if you’ve visited the city a few times like I have, this is a refreshing and enlightening detour.

Highlights of Battlebox

Authentic Wartime Spaces: Explore fully restored rooms, from the command center to communication hubs, just as they were during the war.
The “Fall of Singapore” Story: Knowledgeable guides narrate the dramatic defense campaign and the tense moments leading to General Percival’s fateful decision—considered one of the greatest military defeats in the region’s history.
Fun Fact: Battlebox lies 30 feet (9 meters) underground and consists of 29 rooms, built to withstand air raids.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Dhoby Ghaut Station (NS24/NE6/CC1). Exit via Exit B and walk 5 minutes to Fort Canning Park. The Battlebox entrance is at the base of Fort Canning Hill.

Tiong Bahru – A Heritage District with a Modern Soul

Tiong Bahru is Singapore’s oldest housing estate and a charming blend of tradition and modernity. Its 1930s-era shophouses, paired with a laid-back vibe, make it a perfect place for those seeking to soak up local culture and daily life.

Must-Visit Spots in Tiong Bahru

Tiong Bahru Market: One of the city’s best hawker centers, serving up local delights like Hainanese Chicken Rice and Chwee Kueh (steamed rice cakes).
BooksActually: A beloved independent bookstore featuring a curated collection of rare and quirky reads—perfect for book lovers and culture seekers.
Tiong Bahru Murals: Hand-painted wall art portraying everyday scenes from the neighborhood—market vendors, kids playing, and families gathering.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Tiong Bahru Station (EW17). Exit via Exit B and walk about 10 minutes to reach the neighborhood.

Little India – A Vibrant Cultural Mosaic

Little India is a sensory-rich district brimming with Indian culture, from colorful Hindu temples to lively streets and authentic cuisine. It’s a must-visit for those wanting to experience a completely different flavor of Singapore.

Top Experiences in Little India

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple: One of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore, adorned with intricate statues and vivid architecture.
Tekka Centre: A bustling market offering everything from traditional Indian garments (sari), jewelry, to an incredible array of Indian street food.
Fun Fact: Little India was once home to cattle and horse stables in the 19th century before evolving into today’s vibrant cultural hub.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Little India Station (DT12/NE7). Exit via Exit E, and you’ll be right in the heart of the action.

Gillman Barracks – A Contemporary Art Enclave

Originally a British military barracks from the 1930s, Gillman Barracks has been reimagined as a contemporary art center housing works from global artists. It’s a dream destination for art lovers eager to explore Singapore’s creative scene.

What to Explore at Gillman Barracks

Art Galleries: Over 10 galleries showcasing rotating exhibitions ranging from paintings and sculptures to video installations.
Outdoor Art: Sculptures and installations are scattered throughout the open-air space, turning the compound into a living museum.
Fun Fact: The name “Gillman Barracks” honors Brigadier General Sir Webb Gillman, a British military officer.

How to Get There: Take the MRT to Labrador Park Station (CC27). Exit via Exit A, then catch bus 57 or 61 and alight at Alexandra Road. Gillman Barracks is a 5-minute walk from the bus stop.

Wrap-Up: Dive into the Hidden Layers of Singapore

While landmarks like Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay are iconic, Singapore also holds countless lesser-known treasures for those who crave something deeper. Wandering through streets like Keong Saik or Tiong Bahru, or exploring places like Battlebox and Gillman Barracks, reveals a side of the city that’s rich, textured, and unforgettable.

So lace up your most comfortable walking shoes, pack your curiosity, and get ready for a unique adventure across the hidden gems of the Lion City.