Sri Mariamman Temple, George Town

Built in 1833, Sri Mariamman is the oldest Hindu temple in Penang. Here you can see fascinating sculptures of gods and goddesses over its main entrance and façade. A long-standing place of worship for Indian Hindus in the city, today it holds a special place in the heart of that community. Built in the south Indian Dravidian style, the temple’s most outstanding feature is the impressive gopuram (tower). Rising above the entrance, it features Hindu deities, soldiers and floral decorations. Housed within its ornately decorated interior is the priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam, embellished with gold, silver, diamonds and emeralds. The statue figures prominently in the annual Thaipusam festival, when it is borne on a silver chariot through the city streets to the temple.