Temple of Mariamman Hindu

Overview of Mariamman Hindu Temple

It is the city's only remaining Hindu temple, and both Hindus and non-Hindu Vietnamese regard it as sacred. The temple is said to have amazing abilities, bestowing good fortune and money on anyone who worships within its confines.

The temple was first built as a site of worship for the Chettiar community at the end of the 19th century in honor of Mariamman, the Hindu Goddess of strength.

Mariamman Hindu Temple is decorated with bright deity sculptures similar to those seen in Southern India, which can be found on the external walls, roof tops, towers, and inside the shrine. The temple was once a factory for the production of joss sticks.

Highlights of the Mariamman Hindu Temple

The Mariamman Hindu Temple was established by Tamil Nadu merchants who came to Vietnam to bring celestial entities such as Ganesh, Amman, and Murgua to the streets of Saigon. Sacred images dance on the exterior walls, which include a 12 metre high regal tower at the entryway. With Simha Vahanam seated to the left of the entryway, gods and goddesses such as Shiva, Kali, Brahma, and Vishnu are prominently represented.

A statue of the Goddess Mariamman stands in the center of the altar at the temple's heart, flanked by two Hindu guardian deities and two lingams. Offerings like flowers and joss sticks are generally placed around the shrine. On the roof, there are two colorful towers with more Hindu gods, goddesses, and lions; simply take the stairs up from the entryway to observe these magnificent pillars.

The temple has a permanent keeper who is happy to show visitors around and intends to recruit a Hindu priest from India to perform regular devotions.

Location and Opening hours of Mariamman Hindu Temple

The Mariamman Hindu Temple is located at 45 Truong Dinh Street in District 1, only three blocks west of Ben Thanh Market, and is open daily from 7:00 to 19:00. Remember to remove your shoes before entering and dress conservatively.

Before taking any photographs, always obtain permission from the caretaker, and expect to be asked to donate money to the beggars inside the shrine.