It is more or less likely that you will see people of most of the myriad of cultures in Asia, by looking at the population of Singapore. The Sikhs of Singapore came with the British rule as a part of the Sikh Contingent of the Straits Police Force from India, and have grown to become a colourful addition to the multiethnic melting pot of the country. The Central Sikh Temple of Singapore symbolizes the important role they play in current society.
First made in 1912, it was relocated a couple times before settling at its current site of Kallang Planning Area. The main place of worship for all the Sikhs in the country, the ‘Wada Gurdrawa’ also is an important centre for cultural education and welfare. Its large hall, that does not have any columns, can hold around 1,500 people gathered for celebrations under the 13 metre high dome. A pool, dining hall and kitchen complete the main building, while the tower accommodates a dormitory, classrooms and library for cultural and religious studies and a special museum dedicated to Sikhism. The combined capacity of the seven floors can be extended to 15,000.
The Central Sikh Temple is a popular tourist destination because of its unique architectural style that stands out against other buildings in the neighbourhood. Decorated in mosaics of white, gold and grey, the large dome is a notable feature from both the inside and the outside of the temple. It brings a traditional element to the otherwise modern structure of Sardinian granite. The pink colour is enhanced with extensive polishing and the marble decor in the interior gives a grandeur that is fitting for a place of such importance. Considered as one of the finest Sikh temples outside Punjab, it is a stopover that will give depth to a vibrant subculture along with a fascinating insight into architecture.
The location of the Central Temple is reached easily from almost anywhere in the city. For the business traveller with extended stays in mind or vacationing with a family, an interesting alternative to hotel accommodation can be a serviced apartment Singapore such as Somerset Bencoolen Singapore. Situated close to many transport and entertainment hotspots, these Singapore serviced apartments provide a home away from home with the services of a hotel.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
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