Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur

The Sri Mahamariamman Temple in Kuala Lumpur, founded by K. Thamboosam Pillai, a prominent Malaysian Tamil, in 1873, is the oldest functioning Hindu temple in Malaysia. Mariamman is often worshipped by overseas Indians, particularly by Tamils, as she is their protector for their journeys to foreign lands.

Originally, the temple served as a private shrine for the Pillai family, in late 1920, the family, however, decided to open the temple to the public. The gopuram (which means tower in Hindi) is decorated with over 200 idols which were sculpted by artisans from India.

Visitors need to check in their shoes at the entrance, as no one is allowed to wear shoes inside the temple. A nominal charge of 20 cents is required for storing their shoes at the entrance. There is, however, no admission fee for entering the temple.