Singapore in October is hot and humid with high rainfall. For those visiting, we suggest checking out Old Chang Kee, the Gardens by the Bay, Little India for Deepavali, and the Esplanade.
Read on to find out more about travel and weather, including temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and tips for October.
Singapore Weather in October: Overview
Averages:
- Temperature range: 25–32°C (77–90°F)
- Daily high feels like: 46°C (115°F)
- Rainfall: 17 cm (7 inches)
- Rainy days: 15
- Sunshine hours/day: 5
- Humidity: around 82% (very humid across Singapore)
October marks the beginning of the rainy season in Singapore, with around 15 rainy days, and 17 cm (or 7 inches) of rainfall throughout the month. Humidity is also high, at around 82%.
Temperatures remain high, due to Singapore's proximity to the equator, at around 25–32°C (77–90°F), and daily highs feel like 46°C (115°F)! There are 5 hours of sunshine per day on average in October.
The Best Places to Visit in Singapore in October
October is outside of the tourist season, as it sees the beginning of the monsoon season, which runs between October and January. As a result, there can be heavy showers, but these won't last all day.
To prepare, we recommend bringing an umbrella, staying on top of the weather forecast, and making sure that you have some indoor activities and flexibility planned as well, just in case.
1. Try Singaporean Curry Puffs at the Famous Old Chang Kee
Old Chang Kee is a Singapore institution, being one of the most famous snack stores in Singapore (it has recently even expanded outside of Singapore and Malaysia, with locations in London). In Singapore, there are around 100 locations, and Old Chang Kee is definitely a must-try, particularly the curry puffs.
Legend has it that during the British colonial era in Singapore, chefs combined the idea of western-style pies with east Asian spices, and today, this buttery pastry filled with delicious fillings are worth a stop off at an Old Chang Kee on your trip to Singapore. The traditional curry puff is filled with either potatoes, curry powder (with other spices) and chicken; potatoes only; or potatoes, chicken and a boiled egg.
If you want to have a full meal, we also recommend the nasi lemak (rice cooked in coconut milk served alongside boiled eggs, anchovies and other accompaniments) from here, or famous Singapore laksa, and other popular snacks such as fishballs on sticks, chicken wings, crab nuggets, or the squid which are also great to grab on the go during your exploration.
For other food recommendations while in Singapore, we recommend checking out our piece about visiting Singapore in January.
2. Explore the Gardens by the Bay on a Sunny Day
When you have a couple of sunny hours guaranteed, we highly recommend checking out the Gardens by the Bay. There, you'll be able to see flowers and plants from all over the world, go on a walk along an incredible bridge up near the tree tops, and learn lots about tropical plants and eco-systems.
For more information about visiting the Gardens by the Bay, check out our piece about visiting Singapore in April, or our piece about visiting Singapore in June for more information about the Supertree Grove path specifically.
The Gardens by the Bay are not located very far from the world-famous Merlion, which we highly recommend visiting either right before or right after. You can read more about this interesting structure and what it means to Singapore in our article about visiting Singapore in September. It is definitely not one to miss.
3. Enjoy a Show at the Beautiful Esplanade
The Esplanade is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture or in theater and the performing arts. The building itself looks like a durian, as its circular glass shells are covered in aluminum sunshades, and is often referred to as such too. Its name, the Esplanade, came from its location in the Esplanade Park, and the theater was officially opened in 2002, around 10 years after its planning commenced.
The events that are on here vary between lots of different genres, and we highly recommend seeing what is on during your time in Singapore. Sometimes there are big international bands that come through this venue, shows from local music groups and orchestras, opera, art exhibitions, or cultural talks.
Asia Highlights can also help you plan and buy tickets for an event of your choice. Just let us know your interests and we can make sure that an evening at the Esplanade is part of your Singapore itinerary.
4. Celebrate the Festival of Lights, Deepavali, in Little India
In October, Indian Singaporeans celebrate Deepavali, which is also a public holiday for Singaporeans. The festival of lights falls on October 21 in 2025, and November 9 in 2026.
While it is a public holiday, and there may be some closures, Singapore is mostly open to tourists year-around and you shouldn't notice any major disruptions when traveling. If you did have intentions to visit smaller restaurants in Little India, do check ahead to ensure they are open.
Moreover, Deepavali is a nice time to visit Little India with decorations and festivities happening at the major Hindu Temples and in the bazaars and shops. It is worth walking around the Hindu Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, which has its roofs adorned by beautiful decorations, and will be even more decorated for Deepavali. This temple is also one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore.
The Tekka Center is also worth visiting, which is both a shopping mall and a food court. You will be able to find some traditional foods there, including snacks for Deepavali. We also suggest checking out the Little India Arcade, and Mustafa Center if you have the time. The atmosphere will be buzzing around the festive season.
Low Season: Less Expensive and Fewer Crowds
October falls in low tourist season in Singapore, with fewer crowds and lower prices as a result. We do still recommend booking ahead, because Singapore is a popular destination most of the year.
What to Wear in October
October is hot and humid in Singapore, with a 50% chance of rain day to day. As a result, we suggest dressing for the warmer weather, but being armed with an umbrella or a raincoat or poncho if you prefer.
It's necessary to bring your summer wardrobe to beat the heat, including dresses, shorts, t-shirts, and short-sleeved blouses. Natural fabrics tend to work better in hot weather, and we recommend bringing good footwear to support you on your adventures.
Bringing an additional pair of shoes is advised, as you might get stuck in some rain, and your shoes might need a day to dry in between.
Recommended Tours for Singapore in October
Our Singapore experts have put together some amazing itineraries amazing itineraries to visit Singapore. We also have a few particular recommendations for visitors in October, including:
Our team are ready to help ensure you have the best possible time on your travels. We can arrange a different itinerary or tailor any of the existing itineraries to your needs. Let us help you make the most of your time in Singapore, without any of the stress of planning. Contact us to arrange your trip to Singapore.
Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries
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