Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Kuala Lumpur (8 July, 2016)
Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the oldest Hindu temple in Kuala Lumpur. It is located along Jalan Tun HS Lee, in the Chinatown area of the city. The temple to the South Indian deity Amman dates back to 1873, in other words, to the very beginning of Kuala Lumpur itself. Its landmark feature is the 22-meter gopuram, or entrance tower, ornately embellished with sculptures of Hindu deities, guardians, warriors, nymphs and beasts.
The Sri Mahamariamman Temple is the starting point of the kavadi procession during the annual Thaipusam celebrations. From here the kavadi bearers trudge through the streets of the city to complete their journey of penance and thanksgiving at Batu Caves.