Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple (8 August 2006)


Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple (GPS: 5.41328, 100.32689) is the temple of the Patthar Indian community. The full name of the temple is Arulmigu Sri Kamatchi Amman Devasthanam. It is located at the junction of Dato Kramat Road and Kampung Jawa Lama.

The Patthars are a caste of Indians who are mostly goldsmiths by trade. It is dedicated to their goddess Sri Kamatchi Amman. The temple began as just a shrine in 1914. The intention to set up a proper temple goes back to as early as 1923, and for that purpose, two shophouses along Dato Kramat Road was bought for the temple. Dato Kramat Road was the choice because many Patthars had their businesses within the vicinity.

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple, at the junction of Kampung Jawa Lama with Dato Kramat Road (4 February 2006)


Several issues delayed the commencement of the temple construction until 1940, but once it did, the construction proceeded without too much interruption, even through the war years of the Japanese Occupation. The first consecration of the temple was carried out on 27 October, 1944, with the attendance of top Japanese officials as guest. Since then, the Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple had two later consecrations, the second on 7 September, 1975, and the latest on 7 September, 1989, following renovations done the year earlier.

Unlike other Hindu temples in Penang which see a tussle for control between different groups, control of the Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple was firmly within the control of the Patthars, so there was no problem arising over management style.

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple, side view (4 February 2006)

Getting there

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple is located near the start of Jalan Macalister. From the Komtar Bus Terminal, walk along Jalan Tek Soon to Jalan Penang. Cross Jalan Penang and turn left. Walk along Jalan Penang until you arrive at the junction of Jalan Macalister, and then cross Jalan Dato Kramat. Turn right and walk along Jalan Dato Kramat until you arrive at Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple on your left.

Contact

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple
33A Dato Kramat Road
10150 George Town, Penang

Sculpturework of Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple (4 February 2006)


Figurines on the Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple (4 February 2006)


Another sculpture at Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple (4 February 2006)

Getting there

The nearest bus stop is at Penang Times Square, about 20 meters away. It is served by Rapid Penang Bus 11, 102, 201, 202, 203, 204, 206, 301, 304 and 502.

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple is on the Map of Jalan Dato Keramat, Penang

List of Hindu Temples in Penang and Hindu Temples in Malaysia