The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is Kuala Lumpur’s oldest and most opulent Hindu temple. First inaugurated in 1873, it underwent an impressive renovation in 1968, incorporating the grandeur of the South Indian temples on the continent. The temple forms an important part of the city’s spiritual landscape, and it is worth visiting when you are in the city. Whether it’s business or leisure that brings you to KL, consider investing in one of the city’s finest Kuala Lumpur serviced apartments to host your stay. An excellent option of a quality Kuala Lumpur service apartment can be found at the Ascott Kuala Lumpur which features luxury interiors and five-star service for an unforgettable stay. Round off a visit to KL’s Chinatown district with a foray into a different religion and culture: Hinduism, most vibrantly presented at the historic Sri Maha Mariamman Temple. Its most iconic feature is the magnificent 5-tiered “Gopuram” tower, which decorates the entrance to the temple. Its elabourate construction is credited to South Indian sculptor S. T. Muniappa, who is also believed to have carved all 228 divine idols decorating the gopuram. The temple’s structure is designed to mimic the form of a body lying on its back, and the gopuram represents the feet, whilst the sanctum sanctorum represents the head.
The primary prayer hall features the main shrine dedicated to the chief deity, Mariamman, a powerful protectress venerated by Tamils around the world who have left their South Indian homeland. Flanking her shrine are shrines with Lord Ganesha on the left and his brother, Lord Muruga on the right. The room also features eight beautifully carved statues of the goddess Lakshmi, who is the goddess of abundance and wealth. The temple also houses a resplendent chariot carved out of pure silver, which is brought out during the Thaipusam festival in January to bear the statue of Lord Muruga and his consorts to the Batu Cave temple. The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is a magnificent tribute to one of the Tamil Hindu community’s most beloved spiritual figures and it should occupy a must-visit spot on your KL itinerary.
