Mariamman Hindu Temple is a place of worship at 45 Trương Định in Ho Chi Minh City, close to Ben Thanh Market. Built by Indian traders in the late 19th century, it is dedicated to Mariamman, the Hindu goddess of rain and fertility. Look for the brightly painted figures on the entrance tower and outer walls, then step inside to see the shrine and its 12-metre statue of the goddess. Hindu, Vietnamese and Chinese worshippers come here to pray, so keep your visit quiet and respectful.
Built by Indian traders
Mariamman Hindu Temple was built in the late 19th century by Indian traders, including members of the Tamil community. Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman, it is an important place of worship for the city's Hindu community and is also sacred to some Vietnamese and Chinese residents.
The temple is a distinctive example of Indian religious architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. Materials and statues were brought from India, and the building was later renovated into the form seen today. The temple was used for making incense and processing dried fish before it returned to the Hindu community in the early 1990s.
Deities on the entrance tower and walls
The entrance tower, or gopuram, is covered with colourful sculpted figures. Look for representations of Mariamman, Ganesha and Vishnu among the deities on the outer walls. The detailed carvings reward a slower look before you enter.
Inside, the main shrine holds a 12-metre statue of Mariamman, flanked by her guardians. Other shrines are decorated with flowers, including jasmine and lilies. Incense is used as worshippers pray for health, prosperity and happiness.
A place of worship
The temple serves a small Tamil Hindu congregation, alongside Vietnamese and Chinese worshippers who also regard the site as sacred. Its role as an active place of worship shapes the visit: people come to pray and make offerings, not only to see the architecture.
Visitors can observe quietly or join in prayer or meditation. Treat the shrines and offerings with care, and remove your shoes before entering. If you wish to make an offering, food, incense and fragrant flowers are among the items associated with worship here.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Mariamman Hindu Temple?
It is at 45 Trương Định in Ho Chi Minh City, close to Ben Thanh Market.
What can you see inside Mariamman Hindu Temple?
The inner hall has a 12-metre statue of Mariamman flanked by her guardians, as well as smaller shrines decorated with flowers.
Do you need to remove your shoes?
Yes. Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
When is a quieter time to visit?
Avoid busy religious holidays if you want a quieter visit.
