Sri Mariamman Temple, Singapore

Singapore’s oldest Hindu shrine, the Sri Mariamman Temple, doesn’t exactly try to blend in. Its soaring entrance tower—called a “gopura”—is packed so tightly with brightly painted gods and mythical figures that it feels like they’re all leaning over to greet you at once. Set right in the heart of Chinatown, this temple has long been the spiritual home of Singapore’s Tamil Hindu community.

Step inside and tilt your head up to be rewarded with a parade of colourful friezes. Here you’ll spot the big three manifestations of the supreme being: Brahma, the creator, showing off three of his four heads; Vishnu, the preserver; and Shiva, the destroyer, casually holding one of his sons. The main sanctum straight ahead is dedicated to Mariamman, a goddess known for her healing powers.

Around the walkway, smaller sanctums honour other deities, including Periachi Amman. Her statue is quite dramatic, to say the least: she’s shown holding a queen on her lap after removing the queen’s evil child—a striking image, considering Periachi Amman is the protector of children and the one-month-old babies brought to her for blessings. For something gentler, Sri Aravan—with his dramatic moustache and oversized ears—waits quietly in a sanctum at the back.

On the left of the main sanctum, you’ll notice a simple patch of sand. Once a year, during the Thimithi festival, this humble square turns into a runway of burning coals. Male devotees sprint across it to demonstrate the power of their faith, protected—so they say—by prayer. Crowds line South Bridge Road to watch the ritual, which is as intense as it sounds.

Visit at the right moment, and you’ll catch daily rituals, chants, and offerings that bring the temple to life. It’s a deeply cultural experience, but one that asks a bit in return—and that is respect. Follow the locals, keep your voice down, cover your shoulders, and take off your shoes. A quick tip—bring socks. The temple floor heats up fast under the afternoon sun, and your feet will thank you.

And yes, entry is free, though there’s a small “camera fee” for tourists who want to take photos. Honestly? It’s worth every cent...