
Sri Mariamman Temple Medan
Medan's oldest Hindu temple, built in 1884, featuring vibrant South Indian architecture and a spiritual heart in Little India.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

Sri Mariamman Temple Medan
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Medan's oldest Hindu temple, built in 1884, featuring vibrant South Indian architecture and a spiritual heart in Little India.
"The oldest Indian temple you can find in Medan town. Historical and pretty, located at little india Medan."

👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:
💧 Cleanse Before Entry
Wash hands, feet, and face before entering the temple premises. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Gopuram's Colorful Grandeur
Temple Entrance
Marvel at the intricately carved, vibrant tower, a stunning example of South Indian temple architecture.

Goddess Mariamman Shrine
Main Sanctuary
Pay respects to the primary deity, the goddess of rain and a powerful mother figure in Hinduism.

Little India Ambiance
Surrounding Area
Experience the lively atmosphere of Medan's Little India, with its unique shops and eateries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Culture
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:
💧 Cleanse Before Entry
Wash hands, feet, and face before entering the temple premises. :droplet:
👟 Remove Shoes
Leave your shoes at the designated area before stepping inside. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respectful Photography
Ask permission before taking photos of devotees or inside sacred areas. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect. :pray:
💧 Cleanse Before Entry
Wash hands, feet, and face before entering the temple premises. :droplet:
👟 Remove Shoes
Leave your shoes at the designated area before stepping inside. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Respectful Photography
Ask permission before taking photos of devotees or inside sacred areas. :camerawithflash:
📅 Check for Events
Inquire about special ceremonies or festivals for a richer experience. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sri Mariamman Temple Medan as the oldest and largest Hindu temple in the city, appreciating its historical significance and beautiful Indian architecture. Its location in the vibrant Little India adds to the cultural experience, though some note it's a regular temple and best visited to 'kill some time' or study diversity.
"The oldest Indian temple you can find in Medan town. Historical and pretty, located at little india Medan. Still a regular temple after all, but it's good to kill some time to discover the town."
Cph Ed (Ed)
"The biggest Hindu temple in this town, even in Indonesia. Located in Little Indiatown which most of the citizens here are Indian descendants. It is opened for non Hindu or tourists. Before you enter inside the temple, you must wash your hand, feet, and face. Same like Muslims before enter mosque. It age is 136 yo. The ornaments inside and outside the temple is so wonderful and reflect pure Hindu faith, gods and goddesses are stand stall. This temple was officially signed by former North Sumatera governor, and had fully restoration in 1991."
Lucee Siregar
"Very strategic location. My visit here was when I and my friends studied the diversity of beliefs in Medan, And this is one of the activities of the National Student Exchange program which takes the city of Medan as its destination."
Muhammad Fauzan Ilham
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Kampung Madras, also known as Medan's Little India, making it easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. It's a central spot in the city, so many local drivers will know the way.
Yes, its location in the heart of Little India makes it a prominent landmark. You can use GPS or ask locals for directions to Kampung Madras.
Walking is a great way to explore the area around the temple, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover local shops and eateries.
Parking can be limited in the bustling Little India area. It's often best to use ride-sharing services or be prepared for a short walk from where you're dropped off.
While specific bus routes might vary, local public transport can get you close to the Kampung Madras area. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are generally more convenient for direct access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entrance fee to visit Sri Mariamman Temple. It's a place of worship open to the public, though donations are always appreciated.
The temple is typically open daily from morning until evening. It's advisable to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and atmosphere.
No advance booking is required. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
Non-Hindus are welcome, but you must maintain cleanliness, remove shoes, and dress modestly. Avoid visiting if you are menstruating.
Photography is usually permitted in certain areas, but it's best to be discreet and respectful. Always ask for permission before photographing devotees or inside the inner sanctum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It's the oldest Hindu temple in Medan, built in 1884, dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, the goddess of rain. It's a significant cultural and religious landmark.
Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing.
Take your time to admire the intricate carvings and the vibrant decor. Observe the rituals respectfully and soak in the spiritual ambiance.
Before entering, visitors are expected to wash their hands, feet, and face. Shoes must be removed.
The main deity is Goddess Mariamman, with shrines also dedicated to her children, Ganesha and Murugan, as well as Shiva and Krishna.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The temple is located in Medan's Little India (Kampung Madras), which is brimming with authentic Indian restaurants and street food stalls offering delicious South Indian cuisine.
You'll find a wide variety of Indian dishes, from dosas and idlis to curries and biryanis. Many places offer vegetarian options.
Yes, street food vendors and smaller eateries in Kampung Madras offer affordable and tasty meals.
While many Indian restaurants cater to specific dietary needs, it's always a good idea to inquire about halal options if that's a requirement.
Don't miss out on trying a traditional South Indian thali, various types of dosas, and flavorful curries.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant Gopuram (temple tower) is a prime spot for photos. The colorful decor and intricate details throughout the temple also offer great shots.
While general photography is often allowed, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid flash photography, especially near the main deities, and refrain from photographing devotees without their consent.
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer lighting, ideal for capturing the temple's details without harsh shadows.
Drone usage is generally not permitted in and around religious sites due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local rules before flying drones.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide shots of the architecture and details. A prime lens can be great for low-light interiors if permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit smoother, ensure children are dressed comfortably and modestly. Explain the ritual of washing hands and feet before entering, which can be an interesting part of the experience for them. While the temple itself is a place of quiet contemplation, the lively atmosphere of Kampung Madras can be more engaging for younger visitors. Consider a short visit to the temple followed by exploring the food stalls in Little India for a balanced family adventure.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Reddit discussions often highlight the temple as a good spot for understanding religious diversity in Medan. It's a place where you can observe daily rituals and appreciate the architecture without feeling rushed. The surrounding area is also great for photography and experiencing local life. Don't hesitate to try street food – it's a highlight for many budget travelers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
The temple complex also houses shrines for other important Hindu deities, including Ganesha and Murugan, the children of Goddess Mariamman, as well as Shiva and Krishna. This makes it a significant center for worship for the local Tamil Hindu community. The temple has undergone restorations over the years, ensuring its preservation for future generations, with a notable full restoration in 1991.
Visiting the Sri Mariamman Temple offers a unique opportunity to connect with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Medan. The ornate decor and the palpable sense of devotion create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere, even for those unfamiliar with Hindu traditions. It's a place where history, faith, and art converge beautifully.
Experiencing Medan's Little India
Kampung Madras is more than just a commercial hub; it's a living community where descendants of Indian immigrants have preserved their traditions and way of life. Visitors can immerse themselves in this unique cultural enclave, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of its residents. The area provides a fantastic opportunity to sample traditional South Indian dishes, from savory dosas and idlis to rich curries and fragrant biryanis, offering a culinary journey that complements the spiritual experience of the temple visit.
Exploring Little India is an integral part of visiting the Sri Mariamman Temple. It allows you to understand the context of the temple within the community it serves and to appreciate the enduring cultural influence of the Indian diaspora in Medan. The vibrant street life, the diverse culinary offerings, and the friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit destination within the city.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit