🐉 Siong Lim Temple: A Hidden Oasis of Dragons & Zen in Toa Payoh 🌿

#singaporetrip Tucked away in a quiet corner of Toa Payoh, Siong Lim Temple (also called Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery) feels like a secret portal to ancient China. With its swooping roofs, intricate carvings, and tranquil courtyards, this 100+ year-old temple is Singapore’s best-kept spiritual hideout. First Impressions: A Time Capsule 🕰️ Stepping past the giant red gates, I was hit with the earthy scent of sandalwood incense mixed with the faint rustle of wind through old banyan trees. The temple’s main prayer hall is a masterpiece—golden Buddhas, flickering oil lamps, and the soft hum of chanting. No crowds, no rush—just pure, unfiltered peace. The "Whoa" Moment 🏯 I turned a corner and BAM—the Seven-Tiered Pagoda, standing tall like something out of Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. It’s the only one of its kind in Singapore, and climbing up (yes, you can!) gives you a sneaky view of the city skyline between the temple’s tiled roofs. Hidden Gem: The Backyard Bamboo Forest 🌱 Behind the main complex, there’s a quiet bamboo grove with stone benches—perfect for: Pretending you’re a wandering monk (just me?) Actually meditating (if you’re that disciplined) Escaping Singapore’s heat in the shade Food Detour: Temple Eats & Toa Payoh Treats 🥢 The temple’s vegetarian canteen (open to public!) serves soy-based "char siew" buns that taste shockingly like the real deal. For post-visit cravings, Toa Payoh’s famous lor mee (thick, vinegary noodles) is a 5-minute walk away. Quick & Soulful Itinerary ⏳ ⏰ 9AM – Arrive early, beat the heat & soak in the serenity ⏰ 9:30AM – Explore the main halls + pagoda climb ⏰ 10:30AM – Tea break at the temple canteen ⏰ 11:30AM – Chill in the bamboo garden (bring a book!) Pro Tips 💡 ✔️ Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered) ✔️ No loud noises—this isn’t the place for TikTok dances ✔️ Weekdays = empty, weekends = occasional ceremonies Final Thoughts 💭 Siong Lim Temple is Buddhist tranquility meets architectural wonder—minus the tourist crowds. I left feeling 10x calmer (and maybe a tiny bit wiser?). Would I go back? In a heartbeat. Know more underrated temples? Drop ’em below! 👇 #singaporesecretspots