Temples & religious sites
Sri Mahamariamman Temple, Penang
Overview
Sri Mahamariamman Temple is a Hindu place of worship in George Town, Malaysia. Built in 1833, it is Penang's oldest Hindu temple. Travellers visit to view its traditional South Indian architectural style, particularly the detailed deity carvings adorning the entrance and exterior facade.
Getting There
Situated in central George Town, the site is reachable on foot from most parts of the city centre in roughly 5 to 15 minutes. Travellers arriving from further afield or from Penang International Airport (PEN) can reach the area via local bus or ride-hailing car.
Time to Allow
Allow 30 to 45 minutes for a visit. This provides enough time to view the exterior carvings and walk through the main interior hall.
When to Go
Morning or late afternoon visits are best to avoid midday heat. The temple gets crowded during daily prayer services and major Hindu religious festivals, so plan accordingly if seeking a quieter visit.
Nearby Attractions
Its central location makes it easy to combine with several historic sites within walking distance:
- Kapitan Keling Mosque (0.1km)
- Kong Hock Keong Temple (0.1km)
- Batik Painting Museum Penang (0.3km)
- St. George's Church (0.3km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors