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Candi Sri Mariamman: A Hindu Temple with Dravidian Architecture
Candi Sri Mariamman is a Hindu temple located in Kampung Madras, Medan. Established in 1881, it is dedicated to the worship of Goddess Mariamman, a manifestation of Goddess Durga. The oldest Hindu temple in Medan, it remains a place of worship, especially during Deepawali and Thaipusam festivals. The temple showcases Dravidian architecture, typical of South India and Sri Lanka, with a multi-tiered tower (gopuram) adorned with intricate sculptures of deities. Besides Goddess Mariamman, the temple enshrines four other deities: Shri Vinayagar, Shri Murugan, Shri Lakshmi, and Shri Saraswati.
Location and Accessibility:
Candi Sri Mariamman is situated at Jalan Teuku Umar No. 18, Petisah Tengah, Medan Petisah, Medan 1. It is located in the area known as Kampung Madras or Little India Medan, approximately 500 meters from Vihara Gunung Timur and near Sun Plaza.
To reach Candi Sri Mariamman:
- Public transportation: Take angkot (minibus) route Amplas-Simpang Limun and get off in front of Sun Plaza. Walk 5 minutes west toward the temple. Take Trans Medan Corridor 2 bus route Amplas-Pinang Baris and get off at the Sun Plaza bus stop. Walk west toward the temple.
- Taxi: Order an online or conventional taxi and go directly to the temple’s address.
Entrance Fee and Opening Hours:
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM WIB
- Best time to visit: During Deepawali and Thaipusam festivals to witness Hindu rituals and celebrations.
Activities:
- Admire the Dravidian architecture, including the gopuram and intricate carvings.
- Learn about the history and culture of the Tamil ethnic group who founded the temple in 1881.
- Witness Hindu rituals and celebrations, especially during Deepawali and Thaipusam.
- Interact with friendly Hindus and taste Indian food around the temple.
- Explore nearby attractions such as Sun Plaza, Bukit Barisan Museum, Museum Perjuangan TNI, Tjong Yong Hian Gallery, and Kampung Keling.
Facilities:
- Limited facilities as it is a place of worship.
- Public facilities nearby:
- Vehicle parking in front of the temple or at Sun Plaza.
- Public toilets at Sun Plaza or Kampung Keling.
- Indian food and beverage stalls around the temple or Kampung Keling.
- Souvenir and handicraft shops around the temple or Kampung Keling.
- ATM and money changer at Sun Plaza or Kampung Keling.
Candi Sri Mariamman offers a unique cultural and religious experience, allowing visitors to witness the beauty of Hindu architecture and traditions.
Experience the rich tapestry of culture and spirituality at Candi Sri Mariamman.
