Penang Attractions - Interesting Temples in Penang
o Goddess Of Mercy Temple: One of the oldest Chinese temples in Penang, the Kuan Yin Teng or the Goddess of Mercy Temple was built in 1800 by early immigrant settlers from China. The building is decorated with intricately crafted dragons and sculptured stone lions which are said to be its guardians. Devotees flock to the temple all year round especially during the three anniversaries of Kuan Yin which are on the 19th day of the second, sixth and ninth lunar months.
Opening hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm.
Admission is free.
o Sri Mariamman Temple: Built in 1883, this Hindu temple features fascinating sculptures of gods and goddesses at its main entrance and facade. Housed within its ornately decorated interior is the priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam embellished with gold, silver, diamonds and emeralds. The statue figures prominently in the annual Thaipusam festival when it is borne on a silver chariot through the city streets to the temple at Jalan Waterfall. Permission to enter must be obtained from temple officials.
Opening hours: 8.00am to 12.00noon
4.00pm – 9.00pm
Admission is free.
o Kek Lok Si Temple: One of the finest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, the Kek Lok Si temple stands majestically on a hill in Ayer Itam. Built in tiers, the temple culminates with the beautifully crafted “Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas”. Taking more than 20 years to build, the temple is set against beautiful scenic surroundings. It features a turtle pond, gardens, shrines and beautiful sculptures.
Opening hours: 9.00am to 6.00pm
Admission fee (pagoda): RM2.00 per person.
o Dharmikarama Burmese Temple: A pair of elephants guard the entrance to this Burmese temple. Within the pagoda grounds is a Boddhi tree and a wishing pond. It is the venue of many celebrations held during the water festival in April.
Opening hours: 9.00am to 5.30pm
Admission is free.
o Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram: A Buddhist temple with Thai architecture, it houses a 33-metre gold-plated reclining Buddha said to be one of the longest in the world. The niches behind the statue house urns containing the ashes of devotees.
Opening hours: 8.00am to 5.30pm.
Admission is free.
