Fifth Avenue Hotel Penang does not arrange or offer tour services. The information provided on this page is for general guidance only, to help our guests explore and enjoy the surrounding area during their stay.
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Religious Sites
Sri Mahamariamman Temple
Explore Penang’s oldest Hindu temple, famed for its vibrant gopuram, silver chariot, and Thaipusam celebrations. Cultural insights and visitor tips.
Sri Mahamariamman Temple is located about fifteen minutes by car from Fifth Avenue Hotel Penang, positioned near the heart of George Town along Queen Street. This makes it an ideal cultural stop during your exploration of the city’s heritage zone. Travelling from the hotel, take Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah southwards and continue onto Lebuh Light before turning into Lebuh Queen where the temple stands prominently.
Founded in 1833 by Tamil settlers, the temple is the oldest Hindu place of worship in Penang and remains an important religious and cultural landmark for the local Indian community. Its façade is dominated by a vividly painted gopuram, or entrance tower, standing five tiers high and decorated with statues of 38 deities. This architectural feature is a striking introduction to the vibrant spiritual world within.
Upon entering, visitors can explore the inner courtyard and admire the artistry of Dravidian architecture, including ornamental pillars, murals and altars. The main sanctum, or moolasthanam, houses a revered black granite statue of Goddess Mariamman draped in silk and adorned with gold jewellery. Morning puja sessions between 6 AM and 9 AM offer a quiet time for observation, accompanied by the scent of jasmine garlands and incense.