Kampung Madras (Little India) - Image 1
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Kampung Madras Little India

4.5
·35 reviews·, Indonesia

Medan's vibrant Little India, a cultural enclave with colorful streets, authentic Indian cuisine, and the historic Sri Mariamman Temple.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere & food stalls

CrowdMedium
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Kampung Madras (Little India) - Image 1

Kampung Madras Little India

Best Time

Evenings

Vibrant atmosphere & food stalls

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Medan's vibrant Little India, a cultural enclave with colorful streets, authentic Indian cuisine, and the historic Sri Mariamman Temple.

4.5
(35 reviews)

"A good place to go if you visit Medan, surrounded by malls and other places you want to visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the colorful streets and shops. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Carry Cash for Snacks

Many street food vendors prefer cash, especially in the evenings. :moneybag:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple

Kampung Madras

Medan's oldest Hindu temple, a stunning architectural marvel dedicated to Goddess Mariamman. A spiritual and visual feast.

Authentic Indian Cuisine

Authentic Indian Cuisine

Various eateries in Kampung Madras

Indulge in a diverse array of delicious Indian dishes, from savory snacks to rich curries. A culinary adventure awaits!

Colorful Streets and Shops

Colorful Streets and Shops

Main streets of Kampung Madras

Wander through vibrant streets lined with shops selling traditional Indian clothing, accessories, and more. A feast for the eyes!

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibrant Culture

Kampung Madras, Medan's Little India, is a cultural hub brimming with Indian heritage. Explore colorful streets, visit ancient temples, and savor authentic Indian cuisine. Plan your visit to immerse yourself in this unique enclave.

Best Times for Exploration

While Kampung Madras is lively year-round, consider visiting during festivals like Navaratri or Thaipusam for a truly immersive experience. Evenings offer a vibrant atmosphere with food stalls and cultural activities.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Vibrant atmosphere & food stalls
Crowd
Medium
When
During Indian Festivals
Why
Cultural immersion & celebrations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Little india/Kampung Madras Kampung yang menjadi pusat Budaya india yg berada di Kota Medan,kampung ini awalnya disebut kampung keling,namun diubah menjadi kampung madras pada tahun 2008 Kampung madras ini memiliki banyak kuil Hindu,tempat makan khas india dan lain lain yg berkaitan dengan india🥰 Di kampung ini juga memiliki Toleransi agama yg sangat kuat🥰dan di Kampung Madras ini menjadi tempat ...
nadyadharma
121 likes • 3.8K views

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the colorful streets and shops. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Carry Cash for Snacks

Many street food vendors prefer cash, especially in the evenings. :moneybag:

Sri Mariamman Temple is Medan’s oldest Hindu Temple. This temple was built in 1884 for the worship of Goddess Mariamman. The temple is situated in the area known as Kampung Madras or Medan’s Little India. This temple is also devoted to the Hindu Gods Ganesha, and Murugan, children of Mariamman. #mariammantemple #srimariammantemple #medan #medancity #indonesia #northsumatra #hindoutemple
balenciavan
37 likes • 334 views
Ada miniatur India di Medan yang sering disebut “The Little India”. Area ini disebut Kampung Madras. Nanti aku ceritain kampung ini di content selanjutnya yaa!🌻
juwita.pobian
93 likes • 3.6K views

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant streets and intricate temple details make for amazing photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Car parking is often on the side of the road, so be prepared for that. :car:

Jalan pagi ke Little India a.k.a Kampung Keling/Madras di Kota Medan 🇮🇳🇮🇩 joget-joget mode on 💃 #jalanpagi #jalansehat #kampungkeling #kampungkelingmedan #kotamedan #sumut #sumaterautara
prasetyoyanu
7 likes • 403 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the colorful streets and shops. :athletic_shoe:

💰 Carry Cash for Snacks

Many street food vendors prefer cash, especially in the evenings. :moneybag:

📸 Capture the Colors

The vibrant streets and intricate temple details make for amazing photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky

Car parking is often on the side of the road, so be prepared for that. :car:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(35 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Kampung Madras is praised for its vibrant cultural immersion, offering a taste of India with its colorful streets, authentic cuisine, and the historic Sri Mariamman Temple. Visitors appreciate the lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings, and its convenient location near other Medan attractions. However, some note that car parking can be challenging.

"Good place to go if you visit Medan surrounded by mall and other places you want to visit"

CH Waleed

"Nice gate and many Indian-influenced restaurants!"

Maurice Poot

"Previously called Kampung Keling, now it is better known as Little India Medan. Actually, behind this Indian temple there are many typical Indian snacks in the afternoon approaching night. However, during the day. This place is only busy with vehicles passing by. But if you want to take a walk, this place is actually quite aesthetic. And it is not far from the Sun Plaza Medan mall. Just walk about 150 meters. Awesome."

susah tidur

What People Like

Vibrant cultural experience
Authentic Indian food
Colorful streets and architecture

What People Dislike

Challenging car parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kampung Madras is centrally located in Medan, between Medan Polonia and Medan Petisah districts. It's easily accessible by taxi, ride-sharing apps, or local public transport. Many visitors find it a convenient spot to explore on foot once they arrive. Instagram

Yes, Kampung Madras is conveniently located near Sun Plaza mall, making it easy to combine your visit with shopping or dining. Reddit

Walking is the best way to experience the vibrant atmosphere and discover hidden gems within Kampung Madras. Instagram

Look for the distinctive Indian-influenced architecture and the colorful decorations that signify you've entered Little India. The Sri Mariamman Temple is a prominent landmark. Instagram

Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are widely used in Medan and are a convenient way to reach Kampung Madras. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kampung Madras is an open public area, so there are no entrance fees to explore the streets and general vicinity. Instagram

While entry to the temple grounds is generally free, donations are welcome and appreciated to support the temple's upkeep. Instagram

Shops typically open in the morning and stay open until the evening. The atmosphere becomes particularly lively as food stalls set up in the late afternoon and early evening. Reddit

For a wider selection of goods and a bustling shopping experience, aim for late morning to early afternoon. For a more vibrant street food scene, visit in the late afternoon and evening. Reddit

While official guided tours might not be widely advertised, you can often find local guides offering informal tours, especially around the temple area. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect a rich immersion into Indian culture, with vibrant Hindu temples, traditional music, colorful attire, and authentic Indian cuisine. Instagram+1

Don't miss out on typical Indian snacks available in the afternoon and evening, as well as a variety of delicious Indian dishes from the restaurants. Reddit

Kampung Madras often hosts celebrations for major Indian festivals like Navaratri and Thaipusam, offering a unique cultural spectacle. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The colorful streets, intricate temple architecture, and vibrant cultural scenes make it a photographer's paradise. Instagram

The atmosphere is generally lively and colorful, especially in the evenings when food stalls are buzzing and the community comes alive. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a diverse range of restaurants offering authentic Indian flavors, from South Indian specialties to North Indian curries. Reddit

Yes, most Indian restaurants in Kampung Madras offer a wide variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. Reddit

Look out for popular snacks like samosas, pakoras, and various types of chaat, especially from the street food vendors in the evening. Reddit

Many of the restaurants cater to a diverse clientele, and you can inquire about halal options. The strong religious tolerance in the area ensures a welcoming environment. TikTok

You can find a range of dining options, from affordable street food snacks to mid-range restaurant meals, catering to various budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The vibrant streets with colorful buildings, the intricate details of the Sri Mariamman Temple, and the lively street scenes, especially during festivals, are prime photography locations. Instagram+1

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. Evenings are great for capturing the vibrant atmosphere and illuminated temple. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in the temple premises, but it's always respectful to check for any specific signage or ask temple staff for guidance, especially during prayer times. Instagram

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for street scenes and temple details. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the temple, and a prime lens is good for low-light evening shots. Instagram

Focus on candid shots of people, vibrant market scenes, religious rituals (if permitted), and the unique architectural details that showcase the blend of Indian culture in Medan. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kampung Madras offers a colorful and engaging experience for families. The vibrant streets and shops provide visual stimulation for children, and the Sri Mariamman Temple offers a glimpse into a different culture. Instagram Consider visiting in the late afternoon when the atmosphere is lively but not overwhelmingly crowded. Pack snacks and drinks, as exploring can be tiring for little ones. Reddit

While there aren't specific playgrounds, the novelty of the surroundings and the opportunity to try new, kid-friendly Indian snacks can make it an exciting outing. Be mindful of the heat and ensure everyone stays hydrated. The proximity to Sun Plaza mall also offers a convenient escape if the kids need a break or a change of scenery. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Kampung Madras is a fantastic destination for budget travelers. Exploring the streets and admiring the architecture is free of charge. Instagram You can enjoy delicious and affordable meals from street food vendors and local eateries, making it easy to eat well without breaking the bank. Reddit

Opt for local transportation or ride-sharing apps for cost-effective travel to and from the area. TikTok Carrying cash for smaller purchases and snacks is recommended, as some vendors may not accept cards. This vibrant cultural enclave offers a rich experience without requiring a large budget. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Kampung Madras is a dream come true. The vibrant colors of the buildings, the intricate details of the Sri Mariamman Temple, and the lively street scenes offer endless opportunities for stunning shots. Instagram+1 The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, or in the evenings when the area is illuminated and buzzing with activity. Instagram

Experiment with capturing candid moments of daily life, the architectural grandeur of the temple, and the textures of the market stalls. Be respectful when photographing people, and always ask for permission if you plan to take close-up portraits. The cultural richness and visual appeal make Kampung Madras a highly rewarding location for any photographer. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Culture

Kampung Madras, originally known as Kampung Keling, has a rich history rooted in the arrival of Tamil and Punjabi laborers in Medan during the late 19th century for tobacco plantations. Instagram Over time, this area evolved into a vibrant hub for the Indian diaspora, fostering a strong sense of community and preserving their cultural heritage. The name change to Kampung Madras in 2008 reflects a broader embrace of its identity. TikTok The area is characterized by its strong religious tolerance, with Hindu temples standing as prominent landmarks. TikTok

Today, Kampung Madras is a living testament to the enduring Indian culture in Medan. Visitors can witness this through the numerous Hindu temples, the aroma of authentic Indian cuisine wafting from eateries, and the colorful array of traditional Indian clothing and accessories sold in its shops. Instagram The community actively celebrates major Indian festivals, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the vibrancy and spirit of these traditions firsthand. Instagram+1

Exploring Kampung Madras is more than just a sightseeing trip; it's an immersion into a unique cultural enclave. The blend of historical significance, religious devotion, and everyday life creates a captivating experience. Whether you're drawn by the spiritual aura of the temples, the tantalizing flavors of Indian food, or the visual spectacle of its colorful streets, Kampung Madras offers a memorable journey into the heart of Indian heritage in Medan. Instagram

Culinary Delights of Little India

The food scene in Kampung Madras is a major draw for visitors, offering an authentic taste of India right in Medan. From bustling street food stalls that come alive in the evenings to established restaurants, there's a culinary adventure for every palate. Reddit You can expect a wide variety of dishes, reflecting the diverse regional cuisines of India. Reddit

Popular choices include savory snacks like samosas and pakoras, perfect for a quick bite. For a more substantial meal, explore the rich curries, flavorful biryanis, and various lentil dishes. Many eateries also offer traditional Indian sweets, providing a delightful end to your meal. The strong religious tolerance within Kampung Madras ensures that vegetarian options are abundant and delicious. TikTokReddit

When visiting, be prepared for a sensory experience. The aromas of spices fill the air, and the vibrant presentation of the food adds to the overall charm. While car parking can be a bit challenging, with many opting for roadside parking, the culinary rewards are well worth the minor inconvenience. Reddit It's a fantastic opportunity to explore new flavors and experience the warmth of Indian hospitality through its food. Reddit

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