Kek Lok Si Temple Penang

Popularly known as Temple of Supreme Bliss. Situated on a hill and facing the sea in the town of Air Itam is one of the most beautiful and biggest Buddhist temples of Southeast Asia.

It is close to Penang hill and one of the must-visit places in Penang. It was such a visual delight to see so many red and yellow lanterns decked up all around the temple as a part of the Chinese new year celebration.

The temple creates an inexplicable impression the moment you set eyes on it.

Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang in Pictures :

As we entered the temple there was a huge shop, selling a variety of souvenirs, food, and drinks. Passing through that we entered to an open courtyard surrounded by numerous temple, plants and a small pond in the center with a sitting Buddha statue. The temple was quite vibrant and colorful. Every corner was beautifully decorated. You can’t stop yourself marveling the paintings on the wall, intricate woodwork, and carvings.

Oh wait, thats not yet …a small shaded pathway took us to another section of the temple. As we entered there, we saw numerous golden colour buddha statue standing and glowing in the sunshine.

But the main highlight was the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas. The one you can see below, this unique structure was a marvel to behold. Unfortunately we did not had time to visit the pagoda. But there is always a next time. 🙂

As we stepped in to the main hall of the temple, we were welcomed by the waft of incense scent and the prayers enchanted by priest. It was a peaceful place to be. A huge laughing buddha statue was covered in a glass with golden carved pillars and the hall was covered with intricate handwork, colorful laterns and paintings.

As we got out of the main praying hall, we headed towards the elevator lift to reach the Sky garden at the Hilltop. The hilltop is part of the temple and can also be reached by car or bike by taking another road.

The highlight was the massive Kuan Yin or Goddess of Mercy statue (Mahayana Buddhism). I was quite thrilled seeing the statue of Goddess of Mercy for the first time. The statue was 82.7 meters tall and the roof was supported by 16 granite pillars embellished with ornate carvings and guarded by four fierce looking Guardians from the four directions.

Soaking in the peace and tranquility of the beautiful temple, we walked slowly towards the car saying adieu to return back again.

Note :

Pricing: Free unless you decide you want to go into the Temple of 10,000 Pagoda and Skylift to uphill.
Hours: 9am-6pm daily.

Official Website: Kek Lok Si temple

***

The Tales of a Traveler was part of the Fam Trip organized by Malaysia Tourism.

***