Sri Mahamariamman Temple

Extravagantly decorated, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia.

Founded in 1873, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple rises 23 metres above China Town. The temple’s five-tiered tower is adorned with colourful tiles, precious stones, and hundreds of carvings of Hindu deities. It is named after the Hindu deity, Mariamman, who is believed to protect devotees against sickness and demonic incidents.

Location

The temple is situated at the edge of Chinatown. Kuala Lumpur International Airport is about 60 kilometres away and KL Sentral transportation hub is about 3 kilometres away.

Opening Days and Hours

The temple is open daily from 06:00, and closes every 20:30 on Mondays to Thursdays and Sundays, 21:30 on Fridays, and 21:00 on Saturdays.

Entry Fee and Bookings

Admission to the temple is free.

How to Get There

Major bus routes in Kuala Lumpur operate through this area. You can take the buses heading to “Kotaraya” or “Pasar Seni”, such as Metrobus No. 30 or 99, CityLiner No. 710 or 730, and RapidKL B115 or U22 or U26. Alternatively, you can also take the LRT to Pasar Seni or Plaza Rakyat station, KTM Komuter to Kuala Lumpur station, or Monorail to Maharajalela station, then walk to the temple.

Suggested for

The temple is suitable for travelers of all ages especially those who are interested in the Hindu culture, religion, and architecture.

Time to Spend

Visitors usually spend around 15 to 30 minutes in the temple.

Popularity and Best Time to Go

The temple is busy and crowded during Hindu festivals such as the Thaipusam and Deepavali. You may opt to visit the temple during Pooja times to witness the ceremony. The daily Pooja times are at 07:30, 12:15, and 17:30.

Food

The only food related problem you have here is the limit of your stomach! Some must-try local food at China Town are Kim Lian Kee Hokkien Mee, Yong Tau Fu at the China Town wet market, Sze Ngan Chye’s Roasted Duck, Koon Kee Wan Tan Mee, Portuguese Grilled Fish, Kim Soya Bean, Madam Tang Mua Chi stall, and Air Mata Kucing stall. If you prefer to eat in more comfortable restaurants, you might want to consider the award-winning Café Café, CHOCHA Foodstore, and Old China Café.

Nearby Attractions

Petaling Street (China Town) – 1 minute walk
Central Market – 4 minute’s walk
Merdeka Square – 8 minute’s walk
Sultan Abdul Samad Building – 8 minute’s walk

Stay

Visitors can easily find accommodation in the city of Kuala Lumpur, ranging from budget hostels, mid-range accommodation, to luxury hotels. Some accommodations within walking distance to China Town are Swiss Inn Kuala Lumpur, Alamanda Hotel, and Ancasa Hotel. Budget stays such as The Explorers Guesthouse, Mingle Hostel, and Backhome KL are also within walking distance of the temple.