Kampong Gelam draws crowds with its street murals, golden mosque domes, and indie shops—but how do you actually get there? Whether you’re arriving by train, foot, or car, here’s how to make your way into the heart of one of Singapore’s most storied neighborhoods.
By MRT: The Most Convenient Option
Kampong Gelam is flanked by several MRT stations. Each offers access within a short walk to the district’s main attractions.
- Bugis MRT Station (EW12/DT14)
Just a 5-minute walk. Use Exit B and walk down Victoria Street toward North Bridge Road. You’ll land near Sultan Mosque and Haji Lane. - Lavender MRT Station (EW11)
About a 10-minute walk. Exit A takes you toward Victoria Street. Continue south until you reach Jalan Sultan. - Nicoll Highway MRT Station (CC5)
Roughly 12 minutes on foot. This station drops you near the Golden Mile Complex. Walk northeast along Beach Road and turn into the Kampong Gelam area via Jalan Sultan or Ophir Road.
MRT Tip: Bugis is your go-to if you’re heading straight for Haji Lane or the Malay Heritage Centre. Lavender is better if you plan to start near Golden Mile Food Centre or Jalan Sultan.
By Bus: A Network That Works
Bus routes crisscross Kampong Gelam from all directions. Here’s a breakdown by major roads:
- North Bridge Road / Victoria Street
- Buses: 2, 12, 33, 130, 133, 145, 147, 960
- Stops: Sultan Mosque, Parkview Square, Bugis Station Exit B
- Beach Road
- Buses: 7, 32, 51, 61, 63, 80, 100, 197, 980
- Stops: Opp Golden Mile Complex, Opp St. John HQ
- Jalan Sultan
- Buses: 961, 980
- Stops: After Jalan Sultan Complex
Bus Tip: Use bus apps to check for real-time arrival. Morning traffic can affect timings along Victoria Street and Beach Road.
On Foot: The Walk Is the Experience
Walking is arguably the best way to absorb Kampong Gelam’s character. Here’s how to enter the area from nearby hubs:
- From Bugis Junction
Walk down Victoria Street, turn left at Ophir Road, and cut through Haji Lane. - From Golden Mile Complex
Head northeast on Beach Road, enter via Jalan Sultan, and follow your way into Bussorah Street. - From Arab Street or North Bridge Road
These streets run directly through the heart of the district. Spot the Sultan Mosque and orient yourself from there.
Walking Tip: Keep an eye out for street art—especially Gelam Gallery alleyways near Baghdad Street and Sultan Gate.
By Car: Parking Options Nearby
Driving to Kampong Gelam is feasible, but parking fills up fast during weekends and major festivals. Here are the most reliable places to park:
Public Car Parks
- Multi-storey Carpark – Aliwal Street (Car Park W462)
Near Aliwal Arts Centre and easy walking distance to Sultan Mosque. - Open-air Carpark – Bali Lane / Ophir Road (Car Park W463)
Best for access to Haji Lane and Arab Street. - Multi-storey Carpark – Jalan Sultan Complex (Car Park W464)
Covered parking. Convenient if you’re exploring the Jalan Sultan stretch.
Mall Parking
- Golden Landmark Shopping Complex
Underground parking available. Short walk to the Malay Heritage Centre. - Bugis+ and Bugis Junction
Ample parking but fills up quickly on weekends.
Car Tip: Parking.sg is useful for finding availability and pre-paying. ERP charges may apply on surrounding roads.
Cycling and PMDs: Not Forgotten
Kampong Gelam supports shared pathways and bike-friendly routes. While personal mobility devices are restricted in pedestrian zones, bicycles can be parked at designated racks near Sultan Gate, North Bridge Road, and Aliwal Street.
Cycling Tip: Use park connectors via Rochor Canal for a smoother approach if you’re riding from Kallang or Rochor areas.
Need a Landmark? Use the Mosque
The Sultan Mosque‘s golden dome is visible from most entry points. Use it as a central orientation marker when walking or navigating from nearby transit spots.
Final Tip: Timing Makes a Difference
Weekday mornings are peaceful. Afternoons get livelier. Evenings—especially weekends—see large foot traffic. Plan according to what you want: serenity or street buzz.
Getting here doesn’t take much effort, but knowing the best routes can save time and set the right tone for your Kampong Gelam experience.
