Singapore is the land of celebrations; and Christmas is one of the major festivals celebrated in the city with great zeal and enthusiasm. Read on to know about top five…
Singapore is teeming with large, beautiful Buddhist temples that are visited in large numbers by tourists landing in the city. Some of the most famous Buddhist temples are listed below. Take a look!
Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum
Situated in the Chinatown, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum is one of the most beautiful Buddhist temples in Singapore. Established in 2002, the temple features the ancient tooth relic of Buddha along with other valuables dating back to the early years of Buddhism in the country. The beautiful architecture, inspired by the Chinese Tang Dynasty, is what makes the temple a popular attraction in Singapore. Several artworks including paintings, statues and tapestry can be found in the temple museum.
Burmese Buddhist Temple
Also known as ‘Maha Sasana Ramsi’, Burmese Buddhist Temple is the oldest Theravada Buddhist Temple in Singapore. Founded in 1875 by U Thar Hnin, the temple today houses one of the largest white-marble Buddha statues within its complex. The architecture of the temple is largely inspired by traditional Burmese Buddhist temple designs. The special Bodhi tree, Buddhist sculptures and paintings are among the popular attractions at the temple. Regular meditation classes, lectures on Dharma, and Dhammacakka chanting sessions are organised by the temple authorities.
Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple
Situated in the Rochor district, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple is a traditional Chinese temple in Singapore. Established in 1884 by a group of Chinese invaders, the temple today is a classic example of fine architectural design and traditional craftsmanship. The 1001 Buddha statues by Hiroshi Sugimoto, a lotus mantra by Tsai Charwei along with other paintings and sculptures are among the highlights at the temple.
Siong Lim Temple
Also known as ‘Lian Shan Shuang Lin Monastery’, Siong Lim Temple is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Singapore. Built in 1902 by a group of Chinese merchants, the temple today is designated as a National Monument of Singapore. The bonsai tree, wall carvings, paintings, sculptures, impressive gateways and the rock garden is a classic display of fine architecture and efficient manpower that went towards the construction of the temple.
Poh Ern Shih Temple
Literally translated to ‘Temple of Thanksgiving’, Poh Ern Shih Temple is a famous temple in Singapore. Constructed in 1954, it is a memorial for those who lost their lives in the Battle of Pasir Panjang in 1942. Paintings and sculptures depicting the life of Buddha along with other symbols of worship are the popular attractions at the temple. The replica of the Sarnath Buddha giving his first sermon is a must-see at the temple. Regular dharma talks, meditation courses and Sutta discussions are held both in Chinese and English for monks and tourists.
Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple
Often referred to as the Temple of 1,000 Lights, Sakya Muni Buddha Gaya Temple is one of the most frequently visited Buddhist temples in Singapore. Founded in 1927, the popular structure features a 15-meter seated statue of Buddha. Several paintings, images and murals depicting different stages in the life of Buddha can be found within the temple structure.