Sri Mariamman Temple Singapore / Famous temples in Singapore

Sri Mariamman Temple:

Sri Mariamman temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.An impressive Hindu temple in Chinatown,Singapore.It is one of the tourist attractions of Singapore. Sri Mariamman temple is built in South Indian style.This temple was built in the year 1827 as simple temple made of wood and attap with a small idol Amman called 'Sinna Amman' by Naraina Pillai. Later it was renovated with impressive gopuram of six level structure.The temple was known to devotees over the years as Sithivinayagar and Gothanda Ramaswamy Mariamman temple or simply Mariamman kovil.The gopuram has several sculptures of gods and goddesses and mythological beasts.The six level structured gopuram is visible from far.The statues include Hindu gods seated in relaxed poses accompanied by Indian soldiers dressed in British army uniforms which is different to see.The main deity Sri Mariamman is worshiped for good health and prosperity.Due to its architecture and historical significance,the temple has been gazetted as National monument and major tourist attraction.

Deities:

The temple's main prayer hall has the main deity Mariamman in the center. The secondary deities are Lord Muruga and Lord Rama.The other deities are Goddess Durga,Lord Ganesha,Lord Muthularaja(Madurai Veeran-Rural tamil deity),Aravan and Draupadi.The second most important shrine is Draupadi as she is central to annual Timiti festival.Left of Draupadi are five Pandavas. They are presided over by Lord Krishna.The temple compound also contains Linga and Yoni sculptures.

Festivals:

The main festival celebrated here is Timiti - Fire walking about a week before Diwali,the festival of lights in the month October - November.This Timiti festival is celebrated from olden days in this temple.Apart from Hindus, the Chinese people also participate in this fire walking festival in large number. Navarathri,1008 Sangabishegam,Maha sanda sandi yagam,Navasakthi Archana and Draupadi utsav festival are celebrated in the temple.

Contact:

Sri Mariamman Temple,

244 South bridge road 

Singapore 058793.

Timings:6:00 am - 9:00 pm.

How to reach:

Take MRT to Chinatown station and take Exit A and walk along Pagoda street towards South bridge road to reach the temple.