Singapore's oldest hindu temple is located in the central parts of Chinatown. It was first made by a Mr Naraina Pillai, a trader who came to Singapore with Sir Stamford Raffles back in 1819. Four years later he managed to get a piece of land to build the temple on, and in 1827 the temple for the goddess Sri Mariamman was all done. In 1862 it was rebuilt to look more like what it looks like today.
Sri Mariamman is a goddess known to help people get well from disease and get away from death. I think it's working too, after visiting the temple my worried stomach was feeling much better! (it might also have been thanks to the great drink I got at the roof top bar next door, but...).
The temple is very beautiful, with lots of detailed statues and forms. Unfortunately the front entrance tower (Rajagopuram) was under re-construction when me and Herny visited, so we couldn't really see it. But there are plenty to see also inside the temple, so it's well worth a visit.
There are ceremonies daily, and when we were inside they had a smaller one with drums and fire. Very impressive, specially the drummer!
The temple is open to everyone, no matter if you're a believer or not. Just remember that you must take off your shoes outside the temple due to religious reasons. If you don't want to leave your shoes outside on the street it's okay to bring them inside in a bag though. There is no entrance fee, but if you want to take photos you'll have to pay 3 SGD. Double that sum if you want to use a video cam instead.
Don't miss all the statues on the different buildings! And neither miss the beautiful roof paintings everywhere!
Updated Nov 9, 2009
Address: South Bridge Road
LOCATED IN CHINATOWN IS THE MOST IMPORTANT HINDU TEMPLE CALLED THE%cb Sri Mariamman Temple The original temple was built out of wood and attap in 1827 and the original brick structures of the present building were built around 1843. Convicts built the original structure in 1862, expanding a wood and thatch temple which was put up by one of Singapore's first successful Indians, businessman Narayana Pillai. The temple has undergone several refurbishments to add new annexes to the original building.
Updated Jul 27, 2009
Address: 244 South Bridge Road
This is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore & is situated in the heart of Chinatown. It was built in 1827, then rebuilt in 1862. Above the entrance gate is a colourful gopuram(tower). This is covered in a collection of colourful Hindu figures.
Updated May 21, 2008
Address: South Bridge Road
Sri Mariamman is Singapore's oldest Hindu temple and dates back to 1827. Covered with figurative sculptures of gods and goddesses and mythological beasts, this tower is visible from afar so devotees can even say their prayers without stepping inside the temple.
Updated Jul 3, 2007
Address: 244 South Bridge Road
Phone: (65) 6223 4064
Website: http://www.visitsingapore.com/publish/stbportal/en/home/what_to_see/places_of_worship/sri_mariamman_temple.html
Right in the heart of Chinatown is the Sri Mariamman Temple which is also happens to be the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.
Regardless of your personal religious beliefs you will admire the multitude of colourful and intricate carvings on its facades.
Updated Sep 6, 2006
Address: South Bridge Road
Sri Mariammann Temple is an Indian temple located in Chinatown. Admission is free but you must buy a ticket to take pictures. You also have to walk barefoot. I saw several people, including myself, who decided not to enter because of the shoe regulations. There is also a good view of the temple from the right side (when facing the front door) through a gate. Just walk through the outdoor shopping stalls to get to the gate.
Updated Jun 16, 2006
Address: South Bridge Road
Sri Mariamman Temple was built in 1843 and used provide accommodation to indian immigrants in early days.Today Sri Mariamman Temple is place of worship and a favourite tourist spot.
This also reflect the multi-racial groups in Singapore.
Updated Feb 17, 2006
Address: South Bridge Road
Sri Mariamman Temple is the largest and oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. It was first built in 1827, at that time basicly just a wooden hut. In 1843 it was reconstructed and dedicated to the Goddess Mariamman, who is believed to protect against disease and death.
Over the years Sri Mariamman Temple would serve as a refuge for immigrants while they looked for work and a place to stay. In 1973 it was declared a national monument and has since become one of the most visited places in Singapore.
Important to Know: Anyone may visit the temple. But before entering, you must remove your shoes. So dont wear your best shoes that day if you are planning to visit the temple and are worried about them walking off.
Written Jan 11, 2006
Address: 244 South Bridge Road Singapore 058793
Phone: (65) 6223 4064
Built in 1827, the temple has an awesome facade. To get inside the temple, one must be barefoot and to use a camera will cost a $3 donation ($6 for video cameras). There is a ceremony late in the afternoons.
Written Nov 4, 2005
Address: South Bridge Road
The biggest Hindu temple in Singapore. The Hindu temples are usually very well ornamented but this one is especially incredibly rich in ornaments both out- and inside. You can enter the temple, you just have to remove your shoes, so take an extra pair of socks that you don't worry about as the ground is very dirty.
Updated Jan 12, 2005
Address: South Bridge Road
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The biggest Hindu temple in Singapore. The Hindu temples are usually very well ornamented but this one is especially incredibly rich in ornaments both out- and...
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