Celebrating Diwali in Singapore offers a unique atmosphere and an experience that is sure to be memorable. The festival is not only observed by the Hindu community in Little India, but its festive spirit can also be felt throughout various parts of the city. There is another celebration you can also take part in during this season of festivities: Bhai Dooj.

Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival that celebrates the special bond between brothers and sisters. It takes place on the fifth day of the Diwali festival. 

On this celebration day sisters perform a ritual called tilak or tikka on their brothers’ foreheads and pray for their long life and well-being. Meanwhile, brothers give gifts in return and promise to protect their sisters.

Celebrating Bhai Dooj or Bhai Beej in Singapore blends traditional rituals with the city’s vibrant festive energy. Besides the bustling temples and homes hosting the celebrations, many shops offer a variety of Bhai Dooj gifts for brother or Bhaubeej gift for sister, such as:

Browsing these stores and soaking in the festive atmosphere has its own charm for travellers. That is why Bhai Dooj in Singapore has become a unique cultural experience for both residents and visitors alike.

In 2025, Diwali will be celebrated on Tuesday, October 21, marking the main day of the five-day festival. The festivities commence on Saturday, October 18, with Dhanteras, and conclude on October 23. Here are the timeline of Diwali celebration often happen:

Bhai Dooj, the fifth and final day of Diwali, is observed on Thursday, October 23, 2025.

Curious about how the Hindu community celebrates Bhai Dooj with their family? Here’s how it typically unfolds: 

While Bhai Dooj is a celebration, there are certain customs traditionally observed to maintain its sanctity, including:

Above all, the spirit of respect, love, and familial bonding is central to the occasion, ensuring that the rituals carry both significance and joy.

In Singapore, Bhai Dooj presents a wonderful opportunity to witness and participate in Indian cultural traditions amid the city’s vibrant urban setting. Areas such as Little India come alive with families hosting the tilak ceremony and exchanging gifts. 

If you’re interested in experiencing the Bhai Dooj 2025 celebrations in Singapore, Little India is the area most immersed in the festivities. As the heart of the Hindu community in Singapore, this area naturally offers an atmosphere that feels truly authentic. Some accommodation options you can consider in the area include:

You can easily book the hotels above through Traveloka!

During Diwali and Bhai Dooj week, Singapore comes alive in every corner. Sweet shops and restaurants roll out festive specials, so it’s the best time to explore and sample authentic flavours, like:

No Indian festival is complete without mithai. It’s a traditional sweet that symbolizes love, joy, and togetherness. On Bhai Dooj, sisters often prepare or buy sweets to share with their brothers, making the day extra sweet in every sense. Some favourites include:

Where to find in Singapore:

Bhai Dooj meals are usually hearty, vegetarian, and celebratory, bringing families together around a shared table. A typical spread may include:

Where to find in Singapore:

Today, many families also embrace contemporary gift-giving, blending tradition with modern tastes:

Where to find in Singapore:

Bhai Dooj and Diwali add a special sparkle to Singapore, bringing together families, friends, and visitors in joyous celebration. The city glows with lights, echoes with laughter, and overflows with festive delicacies. Here are some of the best places and activities in Singapore to experience the magic of the season:

Festive bazaars filled with Diwali decorations, sweets, and gifts.

Learn about Indian culture and festive traditions through exhibitions.

Enjoy cultural performances and music shows during the festive season.

Seasonal Diwali-themed events and light displays in a magical setting.

A historic temple, beautifully decorated during Diwali celebrations.

Known for vibrant Diwali prayers and festive rituals.

Famous for colorful ceremonies and cultural significance.

The oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, vibrant and full of history.

A quieter temple offering a peaceful festive experience.

Local food court with South Indian dishes, snacks, and sweets.

Buzzing street market with flowers, garlands, and festive goods.

A nearby neighborhood offering a cultural blend and festive lights.

Seasonal stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, and festive décor.

24-hour shopping for clothes, sweets, electronics, and more.

Great place for festive wear, groceries, and Indian goods.

Popular for sarees, fabrics, and traditional outfits.

Iconic spot to buy mithai (Indian sweets) and vegetarian meals.

Souvenirs, trinkets, and Diwali decorations all in one spot.

To soak in the excitement of Bhai Dooj and Diwali, Little India is the heart of the celebration. But, just a short walk away, you’ll find lively streets and charming neighborhoods that make great places to stay. Here are some top recommendations:

Just a short walk from Little India; convenient for exploring temples and festive bazaars. Check hotels and accommodation in Rochor Road here: 

About 10 minutes away; central, with easy MRT access and plenty of mid-range hotels. Explore hotels and stays along Bencoolen Street here:

Right next to Little India; close to Tekka Centre and the Diwali light-up. Check out where to stay on Selegie Road here:

Just 5 minutes from Serangoon Road; quieter than the core but still very near the celebrations. Browse Farrer Park accommodation choices here:

Around 10–15 minutes’ walk, Bugis is a lively area with shopping and dining, yet close enough to join the festivities. Discover hotels and place to stay near Bugis Area here:

Visiting Singapore during the festive season adds an extra sparkle to your journey, turning every corner into a celebration of light, color, and togetherness. 

Plan your next trip to Singapore and enjoy the ease of self check-in hotels. With Traveloka, you can discover the best deals on hotels, flights, and tickets to attractions—all in one app. Convenient, seamless, and stress-free, your adventure begins here!