Ruby Dot Trails

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM

Ruby Dot Trails

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM

Ruby Dot Trails

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM

Ruby Dot Trails

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM

Ruby Dot Trails

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM

GEMS OF KAMPONG GLAM TOUR

THE ROYAL MALAY QUARTER

WHY VISIT

Our best selling tour!

Looking at the laid-back vibe of Kampong Glam today, it may surprise you to find out that this was the seat of Malay royalty in the 1820s, complete with its own Palace. The Malays were the original inhabitants of the island, before Singapore came under British rule.

The kings and princes are long gone, and Kampong Glam today is an eclectic mix of traditional businesses alongside new cafes and lifestyle shops. It's here that you will find everything from Persian carpets, silks and perfume oils to exotic cuisines, delicious desserts, indie-boutiques and lively jazz bars.

It's a charming neighbourhood we know you'll enjoy exploring. In fact, it's one of our favourite places in Singapore 🙂

WHAT YOU'LL SEE ON TOUR

About the Gems of Kampong Glam Tour
There's so much to see and enjoy in Kampong Glam, The Royal Malay Quarter of Singapore. To ensure you don't miss any of the highlights, join our walking tour and sightsee with us!

The Former Of Palace Of Kampong Glam

Dating from 1840, the former Istana, or Palace, of Kampong Glam has been beautifully restored to become The Malay Heritage Centre.

Come hear the riveting and intriguing story of modern Singapore's founding, and how the Sultan was convinced to sign over Singapore to the British.

Sultan Mosque

With its graceful golden dome, this beloved Kampong Glam landmark is the most photographed mosque in Singapore.

Find out what unique feature was incorporated into its design that had a social purpose behind it.

Haji Lane

We guarantee you'll love the buzz at Haji Lane!

The eye-catching street art at every corner, and the eclectic mix of shops and cafes, has turned this formerly sleepy lane into one of Singapore's trendiest, making it hugely popular among photographers and fashionistas.



During our jalan-jalan (wandering) we'll enjoy the historic streets of Kampong Glam and see some traditional businesses that have been around for generations, as well as how new cafes and shops have injected a fresh vibe into the area, making Kampong Glam a popular haunt for Singaporeans of all races today.

There are 2 ‘bonus’ stops in the tour not mentioned above. We couldn't resist including these because we think you’ll enjoy seeing them. Intrigued? Join us on the tour to find out what these are!

The tour is designed to end at lunch time so it’ll be perfect timing for you to enjoy the specialities of the area – our guide will provide several suggestions.

Please note: Ruby Dot Trails may adjust the above tour itinerary, in response to site conditions or circumstances beyond our control.

GUEST REVIEWS

  • "We really enjoyed our morning with Shal guiding us around the many sights of the Kampong Glam district in Singapore. Shal was a fund of knowledge about the history and culture of the area and its place in the wider context of the development of Singapore. Shal was also very willing to be 'sidetracked' onto other areas of our interest, particularly the social and political aspects of Singaporean life. On the practical side, Shal was always conscious of our comfort zones bearing in mind that we did the tour on a very hot and humid day. Ensuring that we were staying in the shade was always very important and she regular checked that the pace and content of her contributions were appropriate and relevant for us. A first class guide and we intend to book her again on our next visit. Thank you, Shal" - JOHN & DIANA, UK



  • "A great walking tour of a precinct that is perhaps overlooked but with a very knowledgeable guide and in a small group there is a lot to discover. Walking along the original and renewing streets, going in to the mosque and even the small cemetery revealed so many visual points of interest and many stories of Singapore's past and present...Highly recommended for finding more detail on Singapore's rich history"- EDWIN & DEBRA, AUSTRALIA



  • "Shar was a wonderful tour guide and her passion for her home country shone through in this tour. I have been to Singapore several times, but the tour taught me so much more than I had previously known and also gave a good insight to the history of that local area. I would highly recommend this tour" – LYNNE, AUSTRALIA



  • “Shal has done a great job researching the history of Singapore and the neighborhoods on her tours. I learned so much about this small island nation and how it came to be. She is a great historian and story teller and has great pictures to illustrate what she's talking about. Personal touches with her tour: Shal is so easy going and relaxed - it's like hanging out with your best friend all day. PLUS she provided us small fans that hooked up with our phones. This was so helpful when it got quite warm. She also carries ponchos in case it rains.If you find your way to Singapore, you MUST go on this tour!! If you're from Singapore, I still recommend this tour.” – MARWA & TYLER, USA

    • YOUR GUIDE

    Meet your guide! Ruby Dot Trails' owner, Shal, was featured in an interview with the Singapore Tourism Board, on her passion for what she does.



    BOOKING INFO

    When?
    9.30am on Tuesdays
    We recommend booking at least 24 hours before the tour start time so that we can confirm your place.

    Duration?
    3 - 3¼ hours
    We do include time for an air-conditioned break, where you can rest and have a drink, as well as bathroom stops.

    How much?
    S$65 per person
    We need a minimum of 2 guests for the tour to go ahead.
    (If you're travelling solo, please email us to find out if the tour is going ahead on the date you're interested in and if so, you'll be able to book a place for one)

    What's included?
    Small group walking tour (a maximum of 6 guests) for a more personal experience
    A great guide - fluent in English, articulate and professionally licensed
    A wonderful sampler of Malay culture, Singapore history and the unique businesses of this charming neighbourhood!

    What's not included?
    Food and drinks, Gratuities (optional), Hotel transfers

    Where to meet?
    Bugis MRT Station (EW12 DT14)

    We'll send you a photo of the meeting point and directions in your Tour Confirmation email.

    What to bring?
    Wear comfortable shoes and bring an umbrella or poncho, a bottle of water and of course, your camera.

    Anything to take note of for the visit to the Sultan Mosque during the tour?
    The Mosque requests visitors to observe 'modest' dressing i.e. trousers or skirts should reach the knees, and shoulders should be covered. If you prefer to wear shorts or a sleeveless top that day, a shawl or scarf can be used during the mosque portion of the tour.

    More information?
    Do take a look at our FAQ Page - you’ll find it helpful!

    Join us on one of our walking tours now!

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