Sri Sivan Temple

frédéric araujo/Alamy

Cream-colored Hindu temple with carved towers and a black gate beside a Geylang East Ave 2 street sign, Singapore

This is the story of the traveling temple. Constructed on Orchard Rd in the 1850s, the Sri Sivan Temple (sst.org.sg) honors the deity Shiva. In the 1980s the land on which it was built was acquired for development, and the temple was uprooted and temporarily relocated to Serangoon Rd, before finally settling in its present Geylang location in 1993. What sets the temple apart is its whimsical and intricate design, combining elements from North and South Indian architectural styles. This fusion is beautifully showcased in the grand octagonal structure made from thousands of hand-carved marble and limestone pieces. Visitors are welcome to explore inside; wear respectful attire and remove your shoes at the door.

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