May 19, 2026
The Sri Mariamman Temple is Singapore's oldest Hindu temple, built in 1827. It is built in the Dravidian style and is located in the downtown Chinatown district and classified as a National Monument.The founder Naraina Pillai was a government clerk from Penang who arrived in Singapore with Sir Stamford Raffles in 1819. Pillai set up the islands first construction company and also entered the textile trade. He rapidly established himself and was identified as the leader of the Indian Community.
I was so surprised to see the Temple in Chinatown, on the end of Pagoda Street nonetheless! I had assumed it would be over in Indian Town, but given it's age, I now get the placement. I love all the colors and the statues are so expressive. It is stunning inside and out!
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Sunday, May 17th in Singapore was the last day for Tulip Mania at the Flower Dome in Gardens by the Bay . Sheri joined me in passion for flowers and we headed over to explore on our last port day here.
I have wanted to try the Dining in the Dark experience for years! Bosco had done once before back in San Francisco, but was game to do again. I was so excited when I found the listing in the Seeking Sophie website , looking for unique experiences in Singapore .
Singapore’s ethnic makeup is officially classified under the CMIO (Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Others) model. The citizen population consists of Chinese (76.2%), Malays (15.0%), Indians (7.4%), and Others (1.4%). The Chinatown area is the historic heart of the city, blending centuries old culture with modern energy. It has bustling pedestrian streets, historic temples and famous hawker centers.