Sri Mariamman Temple, Chinatown, Singapore Singapore

Sri Mariamman Temple is a fine illustration of Dravidian-style architecture. It especially stands out for its gopuram (monumental tower) that is seen at the entrance. Flanked by the images of Lord Muruga and Lord Krishna on both sides, the gopuram consists of six tiers ornamented with the colourful sculptures of Hindu deities that are brilliantly detailed using plaster work.

At the base of the gopuram is a doorway consisting of a pair of timber gates embellished with small golden bells. Devotees are required to ring the bell as they enter the temple. From the doorway, a covered hall leads to the main prayer hall that enshrines the deity of Mariamman, along with the images of Lord Rama and Lord Muruga.

There are also opulent columns as well as ceiling graced with vivid paintings. A series of agnostic shrines devoted to deities such as Ganesh, Mathurai Veeran, Durga and Draupadi bounds the main prayer hall. Of these, perhaps the most noteworthy is the shrine of Draupadi together with the Pandavas and Lord Krishna.