While the country has been a major driving force for industrial and technological developments worldwide, it also harbours some magnificent relics of ancient architecture influenced by numerous religions. The reason behind it is the diversity in ethnicity amongst the residents. People have migrated here from all across the world, primarily from China, India, and Malaysia.
This diversity of beliefs and harmony amongst these ethnicities is reflected by the majestic temples that have been constructed across the state. Dating as far back as the 1800s, these temples are made with the amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist architectural designs.
Regarded as the oldest and most famous Hindu temple in Singapore, the Sri Mariamman Temple is dedicated to the Hindu goddess of rain. It was built in 1827 around the outskirts of Chinatown and holds great significance for all local Tamilians in the state.
The temple is made in a classic Dravidian style with bright colours and breathtaking sculptures called gopurams. The locals also celebrate Theemithi, a fire-walking ceremony during Diwali, which has become a major attraction over the years.
A monument of pride for the Singaporean Chinese Hokkien community, this temple is dedicated to the Chinese goddess of the sea, Ma Zu. Constructed in 1842, it takes you to the heart of Chinese heritage and allows you to gape in wonder over their architectural prowess.
Thian Hock Keng means ‘Palace of Heavenly Happiness’ in its literal translation. The temple is made in the most traditional styles, wherein a cluster of buildings is made to enclose a peaceful central courtyard. The temple’s elaborate entrance studded with golden motifs has become the trademark of Thian Hock Keng.
The Sivan Temple is arguably one of the most beautiful and elaborate temples of Lord Shiva in the world. The temple is revered highly amongst the Hindus living in Singapore as hundreds of devotees visit every day to offer their prayers.
Constructed in an octagonal shape, the temple exudes the architectural styles of North and South India. It transforms into a bright beacon of light and festivities during Maha Shivratri, the most sacred day amongst Shiva devotees.
Although the temple was erected in the past few decades, its significance and historical value are famous throughout the world. The temple gets its name due to a peculiar possession – Lord Buddha’s left canine tooth. The relic is mounted on a 320 kg stupa made purely of gold, which sits gleaming in the fourth story of the five-story building.
The temple is situated in Chinatown and is designed in an architectural style inspired by Tang Dynasty designs. The temple also has intricate Buddhist Mandalas adorning its hallways.
Popularly known as the Siong Lim Temple or Shuang Lin Temple, this temple symbolises the bond between Buddhist and Taoist divinities. It is a gigantic monument whose tips measure up to seven-story buildings and showcase distinct Southern Chinese architectural styles. The shrine is home to various Taoist city gods and Chinese deities.
The serene backdrop of the temple and its beautiful architecture also make it a beloved tourist destination where you can click some iconic photographs for your Singapore trip.
Dedicated to the love and admiration of Hanuman for Lord Rama, the Ramar Temple is one of the most significant Vaishnavite temples of Singapore. What began as a tiny shrine under a tree has transformed into a magnificent temple adorned with a stunning statue of Lord Hanuman.
The temple also houses sculptures of Lord Buddha and the Chinese Goddess of Mercy, Quan Yin. They were established to cater to the non-Hindu devotees for sharing their prayers and blessings.
Popularly known as the Maha Sasana Ramsi, the Burmese Buddhist Temple is an iconic shrine with a majestic statue of Buddha. Towering as high as 3 metres and weighing as much as 10 tonnes, the sculpture is entirely made of white marble. The statue is the largest of its kind outside of Myanmar.
Built in 1875, the temple is one of the oldest Theravada Buddhism establishments in Singapore. It is also the only Burmese temple in the country. The temple also has an ancient Bodhi Tree, which, legend says, was the place where Buddha got enlightenment.
Dedicated to Lord Perumal, one of the eight forms of Lord Vishnu, the Srinivasa Perumal Temple is one of the oldest temples in Singapore. The temple was built in 1855 and is designed in a Dravidian architectural style endowed with beautiful sculptures.
The towering crown of the temple is inspired by the South Indian architectural style, featuring a 20-metre high gopuram just outside the entrance.
The hustling state of Singapore also provides a soulful and spiritual journey to travellers. From the magnificent temples to the amalgamation of various ethnicities, Singapore tour packages provide an enriching experience to people from all over.
If you are looking for a similar spiritual journey, here are some of the most prominent and popular temples of Singapore that you should definitely explore.
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