15 Must-Visit Temples In Singapore

There are so many beautiful temples in Singapore! Showcasing our Little Red Dot’s rich cultural heritage, there are plenty of temples worth exploring. Read our guide below, whether you’re planning a cultural outing or praying for good luck during your Fan Tai Sui year.

There’s no shortage of temples to visit in a multicultural city like Singapore. From towering Hindu temples to serene Buddhist temples, you can find them on nearly every corner. These temples serve as both places of worship and reflections of Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage. Visitors of all backgrounds often stop by to admire the intricate architecture and learn about the culture and history of each temple. Be sure to check out these temples in Singapore the next time you’re in the area.

Things to take note of when visiting temples in Singapore:

When visiting temples in Singapore, make sure to be mindful of any rules they may have and remember to remain quiet and respectful to avoid disrupting the devotees present. Many temples require visitors to dress modestly, typically recommending clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. While some temples are more relaxed and may allow shorts or slippers, this is not common practice. Don’t worry if you’re underdressed, as many temples provide cover-ups for visitors. Wearing black clothing is traditionally discouraged because it is associated with funerals, but this is not strictly enforced. You may also be asked to remove your shoes before entering.

Some temples may have photography restrictions, so please check before snapping photos. Most temples in Singapore are free to enter and welcome donations, either via cash donation boxes, QR codes or online through their websites. Lastly, if you are unsure of what to do before entering, just observe and follow what the locals are doing or feel free to ask them for guidance.

Jump to:
– List of buddhist temples in Singapore
– List of hindu temples in Singapore
– List of taoist temples in Singapore

Buddhist Temples In Singapore

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown

You may have passed this temple during visits to Chinatown, but did you know its name stems from the Buddha’s left canine tooth enshrined inside? The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple attracts locals and tourists eager to witness this sacred relic and explore other Buddhist artefacts in its museum (entry is free!). Plus, its striking Tang Dynasty architecture serves as the perfect backdrop for Insta-worthy photos.

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple, 288 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058840, www.buddhatoothrelictemple.org.sg

---

Leong San See Temple

Leong San See Temple is one of Singapore’s most ornate temples, featuring intricate carvings and beautifully crafted statues throughout its compound. The temple is dedicated to Guan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. During your visit, you may be welcomed by the gentle aroma of incense and the soothing sounds of prayer. Whether you’re here to meditate or admire the sights, take your time to appreciate the detailed artwork and soak in the temple’s serene atmosphere.

Leong San See Temple, 371 Race Course Road, Singapore 218641, www.leongsanseetemple.com

---

Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery in Toa Payoh

Declared a national monument in 1980, Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery is one of Singapore’s first major Buddhist temples. It’s known for its serene courtyard and annual Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. Visitors come to enjoy the courtyard’s tranquillity or to seek blessings from the deities worshipped here. They also offer calligraphy sessions and fresh vegetarian meals to visitors.

Check out our reel from our visit during their last Mid-Autumn Festival celebration here.

Lian Shan Shuang Monastery, 184 Jalan Toa Payoh, Singapore 319944, www.shuanglin.sg

---

Thian Hock Keng temple at Telok Ayer

Thian Hock Keng is one of Singapore’s oldest and best-known temples. Chinese immigrants historically visited this temple to give thanks to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea, for their safe voyages. Built in the traditional southern Chinese style, the temple features intricate dragon and phoenix carvings throughout. Thian Hock Keng was gazetted as a national monument in 1973. The temple later received the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2001 after its 2000 restoration.

Thian Hock Keng, 158 Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 068613, www.thianhockkeng.com.sg

---

Wat Ananda Metyarama: Thai Buddhist Temple

Singapore’s oldest Thai Theravada Buddhist temple, Wat Ananda Metyarama, sits along Jalan Bukit Merah. Its main shrine features gold-trimmed roofs, a distinct feature of Thai architecture, complemented by local touches, such as the red Chinese lanterns decorating the compound. The temple also celebrates traditional festivals, such as Loy Krathong, adapting them to fit Singapore’s urban setting. It has since become a go-to place for Singaporeans curious about Theravada Buddhism.

Wat Ananda Metyarama, 50B Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 169545, www.watananda.org

---

Hindu Temples In Singapore

Sri Mariamman Temple in Chinatown

Built in 1827, Sri Mariamman Temple stands as Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple. This temple ranks among Chinatown’s most iconic landmarks, alongside the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple. Its striking five-tiered gopuram, decorated with colourful statues of deities, instantly draws the eyes of many passersby. While admission remains free, visitors wishing to offer prayers can purchase archanai items, such as ghee lamps, rose water and flower garlands, starting at $1 each.

Sri Mariamman Temple, 244 South Bridge Road, Singapore 058793, www.smt.org.sg

---

Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple in Chinatown

At the junction of Keong Saik and Kreta Ayer Roads stands Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Sri Vinayagar, more commonly known as Ganesha, the remover of obstacles. Devotees and visitors alike come to seek Ganesha’s blessings, praying for the removal of obstacles and for wisdom to help their plans succeed. In addition to its spiritual significance, the temple is a vibrant centre for community celebrations, hosting major Hindu festivals such as Vinayagar Chathurthi and Chetty Pusam.

Sri Layan Sithi Vinayagar Temple, 73 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089167, www.sttemple.com/about-lsv 

---

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple at Little India

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple is one of Singapore’s oldest Hindu temples. The temple is dedicated to Sri Vishnu, the God of Preservation and Protection. It is known for its five-tiered gopuram, adorned with images of Vishnu’s various avatars and other Hindu deities, set among intricate floral and abstract motifs. During the vibrant annual Thaipusam festival, the temple marks the start of the grand street procession, which ends at Sri Thendayuthapani Temple on Tank Road.

Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, 397 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218123, www.sspt.org.sg

---

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple near Fort Canning

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the God of War and victory. The temple is renowned for its Dravidian-style architecture, featuring a richly decorated gopuram and striking sculptures. It is a key stop during the annual Thaipusam festival, serving as the final destination for devotees carrying the kavadi as they follow the procession route. Beyond religious activities, the temple also hosts a variety of community programmes, from walk-a-jogs to weddings. We especially love that they provide annathaanam (free food) for everyone during special occasions.

Sri Thendayuthapani Temple, 15 Tank Road, Singapore 238065, www.sttemple.com/about-stt

---

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple at Little India

This Hindu temple was built by early Indian migrants who came to Singapore to work and live. Seeking protection and strength in a new land, they chose Sri Veeramakaliamman, also known as Kali, a powerful goddess and destroyer of evil, as the temple’s chief deity. Nowadays, the temple has become an iconic landmark in Little India. Many visitors head to Sri Veerakaliamman Temple to admire and snap photos of its majestic gopuram and Kali statues.

Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, 141 Serangoon Road, Singapore 218042, www.srivkt.org

---

Taoist Temples In Singapore

Chai Chee United Temple

Chai Chee United Temple is one of the newer temples in Singapore. Built in the 1990s, it unites three sub-temples, Hong San Teng, Zhu Yun Gong and Hock Leng Keng, under one roof. Its most striking feature is the pair of dragons on the roof, blowing pearls together. While it may not be a major tourist spot, the temple remains a beloved place for devotees and local residents to pray for safety and prosperity.

Chai Chee United Temple, 6 Chai Chee Lane, Singapore 469020, www.chaicheeunitedtemple.org.sg

---

Chong Ghee Temple

This temple stands out by being both a place of worship and a charitable organisation. It is valued by local devotees for building a strong sense of community, with many frequently participating in initiatives such as volunteering at food banks and disaster relief efforts. While Chong Ghee Temple is not a major tourist destination, it is a popular site for prayers to deities such as Guan Gong, the God of War, where devotees seek blessings and guidance.

Chong Ghee Temple, 80 Rivervale Crescent, Singapore 545087, www.facebook.com/skcgt/

---

Lorong Koo Cye Sheng Hong Temple

One of the more popular temples among Taoist devotees, Lorong Koo Cye Sheng Hong Temple is revered for its stunning architecture. Many visitors are impressed by the detailed craftsmanship, from its elaborate wall carvings to majestic statues. The temple is also known for inviting Taoist priests to offer prayers to Tai Sui, warding off the bad luck we all want to avoid. We also love how it keeps tradition alive by occasionally showcasing traditional Hokkien operas.

Lorong Koo Cye Sheng Hong Temple, 15 Arumugam Road, Singapore 409960, www.shtemple.org.sg

---

Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple

This temple epitomises Singapore’s vibrant, multicultural ‘rojak’ society. Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple houses idols of Buddhist, Taoist, and Hindu deities, as well as the Malayan deity Datuk Kong. Most visitors, however, come to seek blessings from Tua Pek Kong, the God of Prosperity and Virtue, or to see the temple’s mystical ‘Loyang Oracle Stone’, hoping it will reveal the winning 4D numbers.

Loyang Tua Pek Kong Temple, 20 Loyang Way, Singapore 508774, www.lytpk.org.sg

---

San Qing Gong

Singapore’s largest Taoist temple is located in the East at Bedok North. The temple is known for its Da Luo Bao Dian, the tallest shrine in Singapore, standing at 68.7 ft (20.9 m). It features three halls of worship adorned with gold embellishments, intricate carvings and statues of important Taoist deities, including Confucius and Patriarch Lü Dongbin. Beyond its religious role, the temple is very community-oriented, engaging in charitable efforts, supporting interreligious understanding and more.

San Qing Gong, 21 Bedok North Avenue 4, Singapore 489948, www.sqg.com.sg 

---

Read more: