
Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, located at 244 South Bridge Road in the city's Chinatown district. Architecturally designed in the classic South Indian style, the temple enshrines the goddess Mariamman, known for warding off cholera and plague. The temple's six-story tower features statues of deities, mythical beasts, and other sacred objects. The towering tower at the temple entrance is carved with numerous Hindu deities. The temple is not only a place of worship but also a venue for community events. It once served as the Hindu marriage registry, making it the only temple authorized to officiate Hindu weddings.
All seasons
Less than 1 hour
free
09:00-17:00 (Monday to Saturday, January 1st to December 31st);
09:45-17:00 (January 1st - December 31st, Wednesday);
09:00-13:30 (January 1st - Sunday December 31st).
Sri Mariamman Temple, built in 1827, is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. It is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, known for her healing powers. The temple is a key cultural and spiritual site for the Indian community in Singapore and is a focal point for Hindu festivals, particularly the annual Thaipusam procession.
The temple is located in Chinatown, Singapore. You can reach it easily by taking the MRT to Chinatown Station (Exit A) or by bus. It's also within walking distance from other Chinatown attractions.
The temple is open daily from 7 AM to 12 PM and 5 PM to 9 PM. It is best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid large crowds.
Entry to Sri Mariamman Temple is free. Donations are welcome but not required. No tickets are necessary to enter the temple.
No, advance booking is not required to visit the temple as entry is free. However, it’s recommended to check for any special events or religious ceremonies that might require advanced registration.
Exploring the temple usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your interest in the architecture and the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available for groups and can be arranged in advance. Audio guides are not typically offered, but temple staff are happy to answer questions about the temple's history and significance.
Enter the temple through the main gate, admire the entrance tower, and then proceed into the inner sanctum to view the main deity, Mariamman. Take time to observe the carvings and sculptures throughout the temple.
The temple is open in the evening, but there are no light shows. However, special tours may be available during Hindu festivals or major religious events like Thaipusam.
The temple can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. Weekday mornings are the least crowded times to visit.
There are basic restroom facilities at the temple, but no food or drink is sold on-site. However, there are numerous cafes and eateries around Chinatown, where visitors can enjoy local delicacies.
The temple is accessible to most visitors, but there are steps at the entrance and inside, which may be difficult for those with mobility issues. It is advisable to check in advance if there are any special accessibility provisions.
Cash is preferred for donations, although some nearby vendors may accept cards or mobile payments. Inside the temple, there are no facilities for purchases, only for donations.
Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are widely available in Chinatown, including in the Chinatown Complex Food Centre.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around Chinatown offering items such as Chinese crafts, jewelry, textiles, and items related to the temple like incense and religious figurines.