Sri Mariamman Temple – the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.

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Sri Mariamman Temple
The Hindu Temple Devoted to Goddess Mariamman.

The Façade of Sri Mariamman Temple

If you want to see the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, you shall go to South Bridge Road. It’s easy to spot the temple which is famous with its intricate ornamental tower entrance or known as "gopuram" which has been a landmark to generations of Hindu worshipper and Singaporean alike.

This is the current temple picture (2007) with fully develop sculptural works at "gopuram".

Sri Mariamman Temple - Oldest Hindu Temple in Singapore

Actually the original gopuram (grand tower entrance) was constructed in the late 1800's but did not contain much ornamental works. It was rebuilt in the 1930s, repaired and restored with elaborate creation of sculptures in the 1960s.

Here is the picture of Sri Mariamman Temple with gopuram in 1915:

Sri Mariamman Temple - View from South Bridge Road in 1915

History

Looking at history, the temple itself was built in 1827 inspired by Mr. Naraina Pillai with structure made of wood for shelter and worship by immigrants from the Nagapatnam and Cuddalore districts of South India.

Known as Mariam Kovil or Kling Street Temple in the past, the temple was dedicated to Goddess Mariamman who was known for her power in curing epidemic illnesses and diseases.

The temple was the only Hindu Temple at that time whose priests were given the authority to solemnize Hindu marriages.

Then, the first works of adding bricks and plaster started in 1843.

Interior

The temple has undergone several redevelopment and redecoration phases spanning in more than 100 years. These include a huge amount of deities carved all over the walls, bell-decked doors and frescoes on the ceilings.

Here are pictures of the interior

Interior of Sri Mariamman Temple: Frescoes!

Meditation inside Sri Mariamman Temple

Festivals

These days you can see Theemithi (fire walking ceremony), the main festival celebrated at the temple held annually in October/ November, which draws attention either worshippers or visitors. Other festivals you’ll see are Navarathiri (Nine night festival) and 1008 Sankabishegam (Conch shell anointment).

This is the place where the Theemithi (fire walking ceremony) and other festivals are held.

This is a place for fire walking ceremony - inside Sri Mariamman Temple

How to get there?

As usual, the easiest way to go there is by MRT. If you do so, you shall alight at City Hall Station (EW13/NS25). You can take SBS bus103, 166 or 197 or SMRT Bus 61 from North Bridge Road after that.

Location:

244 South Bridge Road Singapore 058793