Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Singapore Overview

The Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is a Hindu place of worship located along Serangoon Road in Little India. A shrine to Lord Vishnu, the Hindu God of Preservation, this temple is known for its magnificently ornate 20-metre-high Gopuram (entrance tower) which depicts the various incarnations of the deity.

The Dravidian architecture of the temple is a visual masterpiece, with thousands of intricate sculptures and paintings adorning the five-tiered tower and ceiling that transport visitors into the world of Hindu mythology. One of the oldest temples in the country, Srinivasa Perumal Temple was first built in 1855 and gazetted as a national monument in 1978.

Built primarily with donations from P. Govindasamy Pillai, a famous south Indian philanthropist, the famous landmark features idols of Lord Vishnu along with his consorts Lakshmi and Andal, and his mount Garuda. Important Hindu festivals like Thaipusam, Brahmotsavam, and Vaikunta Ekadasi are celebrated with much gusto here, and the prasadam (ceremonial offerings) are a must-try!

Historical Significance

The history of this opulent temple dates back to the 1800s when strong community leaders decided to construct a temple for the Vaishnavites in Singapore. The original temple structure remained unchanged until the early 1950s. In 1942, the Mohammedan Hindu Empowerment board of Singapore decided to reinstate Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple. The renovation was carried out in the 1960s when Mr.Pillai financed a considerable amount of work.

The present building along with Rajagopuram and the covered walkway was completed in 1966. This was when many elders and well-wishers advised of renaming the temple from Sri Narasimha to Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple. The temple went through financial constraints which hampered the construction of the Rajagopuram. However, due to Mr.Pillai's generous contribution, the Gopuram was later erected in late 1970s. In 1978, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple was declared a National Monument by the Preservation of Monuments Board.

Inner Sanctum of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple Singapore — The Inner Sanctum (Source)

Architecture of Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple Singapore

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple has a traditional South Indian style architecture which features a spectacular five-tier entrance tower called the Rajagopuram.
It has a striking depiction of the different avatars of Vishnu and other Hindu deities while embracing the floral and abstract pattern.
The Rajagopuram can only be seen from a distance due to its monumental height. This allows believers to offer prayers from afar even if they don't visit the temple premises.

The prayer hall (Mandapam) is decorated by the temple's attractive circular mandalas and elaborate relief carvings that symbolise the universe and nirvana.
The statue of Srinivasa Perumal is enshrined in the main sanctum. It is where only the priests have the liberty to enter.
On either side of the shrine are two figures of door deities known as Dwarapalakas.

Right in front of the main entrance, different avatars of Vishnu are lined at the top of the walls.
The sanctum houses shrines dedicated to other Hindu deities.
The main sanctum is flanked by Vishnu's consorts, Lakshmi and Andal.
This temple also honours Hanuman (Anjaneyar to Tamilians) and Ganesha.
All of the sanctums are crowned with a grand Vimana, a highly decorated dome.

How to Reach Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple

Located on Serangoon Road, Little India, the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is easily accessible. It is a minute away from the bus stop and MRT Station. The buses that halt at the temple are 67, 857, NR6, 141, 21, 23, 64, 65, 66, 125, 130, 139 and 147. The MRT Station closest to the temple is the Farrer Park MRT Station. Exit G will have you reach the temple.