Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum

Sri Mariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore.  It was founded by the Indian pioneer, Naraina Pillai, a government clerk and social entrepreneur from Penang who was in the company of Sir Stamford Raffles (1781-1826) on the latter’s second visit to Singapore in 1819.  It was built in 1827 under a Dravidian influence.  The most striking feature of Sri Mariamman Temple is the grand entrance tower gopuram, which resembles a pagoda.  Thus the two streets on either side of this temple are called Pagoda Street and Temple Street respectively. On top of the temple’s exterior sit six tiers of brightly coloured Hindu Deities. This makes this temple aesthetically pleasing and unique. The Sri Mariamman Temple serves as Hindu Singaporeans main place of worship.  It is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, known for her power to cure illnesses and diseases.  This temple is also popular amongst tourists due to its colourful exterior and location in Chinatown.  Admission is free and a renowned fire-walking ceremony takes place here annually.