Thursday, May 08, 2008

Hindu Temples

Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple
Built in 1873, this elaborate Hindu temple is located at Jalan Bandar near Chinatown. The facade comprised ornate sculptures of Hindu deities and is believed to be one of the country's oldest Hindu temple. During Thaipusam, the temple is a hive of activities with devotees converging to pay their respects and fulfil vows. A silver chariot carrying the statue of Lord Murugan will set off from this temple on the eve of Thaipusam to a 20km journey to Batu Caves.

Court Hill Sri Ganeshar Temple
This temple, which is located along Jalan Pudu Lama, is run by the Sri Mahariamman Hindu Temple in Jalan Bandar. Although not as grand in architecture as the Mahariamman Temple in Jalan Bandar, this temple, which is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, is just as popular. Located nearby the temple are several vegetarian restaurants and if you wish to try Indian vegetarian food, here is your chance to do so.

Batu Caves Sri Subramaniam Temple
Discovered in the late 1800s, Batu Caves is a limestone cave complex rising over 100 metres high. In days of old, it is the site of limestone quarries. However, to preserve the cave complex, quarrying activities was stopped in the late 70s. The cave temple, located on top of the cave complex, is accessible by climbing 272 steps. This cave temple is where Hindus converge each Thaipusam to pay respect the deities.

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