Sri Thendayuthapani Temple

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, on Tank Road, is one of Singapore's most beautiful and vibrant temples. Completed in 1859, it is also one of the oldest. Since the temple was built by the Nattukkotai Chettiyar community, who were Shaivas or worshipers of Lord Shiva, the temple is also often called Chettiyar's Temple. It is constructed in Dravidian, or South Indian style of architecture, whose highlight is the colourful roof, or the gopuram. The interior of the temple is large and spacious. The pillars and a part of the ceilings are done in a beautiful golden colour. The magnificence, and vibrancy of the temple led it to be gazetted as a National Monument in October 2014.

Inside the Thendayuthapani Temple, the main sanctum houses the golden statue of Lord Murugan. Separate sanctums housing statues of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti, the parents of Lord Murugan, are also present. This grand edifice isn't the only gift the Chettiyars left for Singapore. They also introduced the festival of Thaipusam, held January, to Southeast Asia. On the day of Thaipusam, grand processions pass through the roads starting from Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, on Serangoon Road, crossing several other Hindu temples, and finally ending at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. This procession is one-of-a-kind, and a must-see if you're in Singapore at the time.