Sri Mariamman Temple
Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, in the middle of Chinatown, with a gopuram crowded with painted figures.
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Sri Mariamman was founded in 1827 by Naraina Pillai, who came to Singapore with Raffles, and it is the oldest Hindu temple on the island, standing incongruously in the middle of Chinatown because that is where the Indian community first settled. The gopuram over the entrance is six tiers of brightly painted figures, added in 1925 and repainted regularly. The goddess Mariamman is associated with disease and healing, which is why she was the one brought.
What you actually see
- The gopuram - a six-tier tower crowded with painted deities over the entrance.
- The prayer hall - the main shrine with Mariamman at its centre.
- The ceiling paintings - painted scenes across the interior ceiling.
- The location - the oldest Hindu temple standing in the middle of Chinatown.
When to go
Year round; the temple keeps daily hours with a midday closure. The Theemithi firewalking festival, usually in October or November, is the year's main event. Mornings are quietest.
Honest expectations
Shoes must be removed and dress rules apply. Photography inside is charged and restricted in places. It is a working temple and busy at prayer times.
Nearby
The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a short walk, and Maxwell Food Centre is beside it.
What to pack for Sri Mariamman Temple
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.