Sri Mariamman Temple

Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore. It was founded in 1827 and stands on South Bridge Road in Chinatown. Entry is free, and respectful visitors are welcome.

Its tall entrance tower, covered in brightly painted figures, is one of the best-known sights in the area. This guide explains what to see and how to visit with respect.

History of Sri Mariamman Temple

The temple was founded by Naraina Pillai, an early Indian settler who came to Singapore from Penang. The first temple was a simple wooden shrine. It was later rebuilt in brick and has been extended and restored many times since.

In its early years, the temple was also a shelter and meeting place for new arrivals from India. Today it is a national monument and an active place of worship. It is managed by the Hindu Endowments Board.

The temple is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman. Devotees pray to her for good health and protection from illness. Pagoda Street, right beside the temple, is said to be named after its tall tower.

What to see at the temple

The first thing you will notice is the gopuram, the tall tower above the entrance. It is covered in rows of colourful sculptures of Hindu gods, goddesses and other figures. Stand across the road for the best view.

Once inside, take a slow walk around the main hall. Look out for these features.

• The main shrine: the central shrine holds the image of the goddess Mariamman.
• Smaller shrines: around the hall are shrines to other deities, including Ganesha and Murugan.
• Painted ceilings: look up to see detailed paintings of gods and goddesses.
• Daily prayers: if you arrive during a puja, or prayer session, you can watch quietly from the side.

Every year, around a week before Deepavali, the temple hosts Theemithi, a fire-walking festival. Devotees walk across a pit of hot coals as an act of faith. It draws large crowds, so check the dates in advance.

How to get there

The temple is on South Bridge Road, at the corner of Pagoda Street. Chinatown MRT station, on the North East Line and Downtown Line, is a few minutes away on foot. Leave the station by the Pagoda Street exit and walk to the end of the street. If you take a taxi, the postal code is Singapore 058793.

New to the trains? Read How to Use the MRT in Singapore.

Temple etiquette and tips

Hindu temples have a few simple rules. Following them shows respect to the people who come here to pray.

• Remove your shoes before entering, and leave them at the entrance.
• Dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees.
• Walk around the shrines in a clockwise direction, as devotees do.
• Do not touch the deities, offerings or priests.
• Ask before taking photos of people, and do not use flash during prayers.

Rules can change, so follow the signs at the entrance. Check the official website for opening hours and visitor information. For more on visiting places of worship, see our guide to etiquette and local laws.

Food and things to do nearby

The temple sits among the shophouses of Chinatown, so there is plenty to do close by. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple is a short walk down South Bridge Road. Masjid Jamae, one of the older mosques in Singapore, is on the same road. Seeing a Hindu temple, a mosque and a Buddhist temple on one street shows how many faiths live side by side here.

For food, Chinatown Complex and Maxwell Food Centre are both nearby. Read our guide to the best hawker centres in Singapore for tourists. For sit-down meals, browse restaurants in Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar. To stay in the area, see hotels in Chinatown and Tanjong Pagar, such as Duxton Reserve Singapore.

Want to explore more? Our Chinatown neighbourhood guides and culture and heritage pages have more ideas.

FAQs about Sri Mariamman Temple

Is Sri Mariamman Temple free to visit?

Yes, entry is free. Donations are welcome.

Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

Yes. Visitors of all faiths are welcome, as long as they dress modestly, remove their shoes and behave respectfully.

When is the fire-walking festival?

Theemithi usually takes place about a week before Deepavali. Dates change each year, so check the official website.

What is the nearest MRT station?

Chinatown MRT station is the nearest. It is a few minutes away on foot.