Sri Mariamman Temple: A Visitor Guide | Singapore Purple Travel Guide

(map, reviews, website)

Located in the heart of Chinatown, the Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple and a National Monument. Originally established in 1827, it serves as a powerful symbol of the city's multicultural roots. While its surroundings are filled with Chinese shophouses, this South Indian Dravidian-style masterpiece remains the spiritual home for Singapore’s Hindu community and a major landmark on South Bridge Road.

Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

Why You Should Visit

Visiting this temple offers a profound look into the religious diversity that defines Singapore. It is not just a relic of the past but a bustling center of worship where you can witness vibrant rituals, intricate South Indian artistry, and the living traditions of the Tamil community. Its stunning entrance tower is one of the most photographed icons in the country.

What is Special About It?

• The Majestic Gopuram: The six-tiered entrance tower is a masterpiece of sculpture, featuring hundreds of colorful figurines of Hindu deities, mythological beasts, and celestial beings. It was designed to be a ‘beacon’ that devotees could see from afar.
• Goddess Mariamman: The temple is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, known in South Indian tradition as the curer of diseases and the bringer of rain.
• Intricate Frescoes: The ceilings of the mandapam (hall) are covered in vivid, hand-painted frescoes and mandalas that depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the cosmos.
• Community Legacy: Historically, the temple was more than a place of worship; it served as a registry for Hindu marriages and a temporary shelter for newly arrived Indian immigrants in colonial Singapore.

History and Facts

• Founded by Naraina Pillai: He was an Indian pioneer who arrived in Singapore with Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819. He established the first brick kiln in Singapore and used his wealth to build the original wood-and-attap temple in 1827.
• Brick Reconstruction: The current brick structure dates back to 1843 and was built largely by Indian craftsmen and Chinese labor, showcasing early cross-cultural collaboration.
• Theemithi Festival: The temple is the starting point for the annual Fire-Walking Festival (Theemithi), held in October or November, where devotees walk across a bed of hot coals to prove their faith.
• National Monument: It was gazetted on June 28, 1973, for its immense historical and architectural value.

Self-Guided Information

Traveler Tip

Please remember that this is an active place of worship. You must remove your shoes before entering (racks are provided at the entrance). Dress modestly by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered; the temple usually provides sarongs or wraps at the door if you are wearing shorts. While photography is generally allowed, please be respectful: do not photograph the inner sanctum (the main altar) or devotees while they are praying.

Back to your Self-Guided Singapore Walking Tour

Where do you want to go now?

Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

Other popular Purple Travel Guides you may be interested in:

Like this Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel Guide? Pin these for later: