The Largest Buddhist Temple In Southeast Asia – Kek Lok Si Temple Malaysia

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country known for its gorgeous coastline, splendid beaches, exotic islands, historical richness, and lush tropical rainforests. The Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang is one of the hotspots to visit on your trip to this tropical country. Buddhism is the second largest religion followed in Malaysia. Kek Lok Si Temple is the symbol of Chinese Buddhism. Situated atop a hill at Air Itam near Penang Island, Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia. If you are planning to visit this thriving metropolitan hub, you will require a Malaysia visa or a Malaysia tourist visa.

Kek Lok Si Temple History

• The history of the Kek Lok Si temple can be traced back to the late nineteenth century. Beow Lean, a priest, came to Penang in 1885 to obtain donations for a monastery in Ku-san in China.
• In 1905, Beow Lean became Kek Lok Si temple’s first Abbot and chief priest.
• He served for 15 years from 1906 to 1938 and was succeeded by Poon Teong. The Pagoda of a million Buddhas was built under the leadership of the second Abbot, and the monastery further expanded.
• The third chief, Abbot Yuan Ying succeeded Poon Teong in 1938. He was succeeded by Pai Sheng, the fourth chief Abbot, and then Tat Neng (1990 to 1997), who became the fifth chief Abbot.
• Under the sixth chief abbot, Jit Heng, the majestic statue of Kuan Yin got completed.

Where is Kek Lok Si Temple Located?

The town of Air Itam, located in the center of Penang Island, Malaysia, is home to Kek Lok Si Temple. It is conveniently accessible for visitors staying in the city because it is only about 7 miles from George Town.

How to Reach & Transport Options

Kek Lok Si temple is about 9 to 10 km away from Georgetown. The cheapest way to reach the temple is to catch a bus at the Komtar bus terminal. It will cost 2 ringgits for the 45-minute ride. If you take an Uber or Grab, it will cost around 13 ringgits for a 30-minute ride. A taxi would cost about 25 ringgits for a one-way trip.

By Bus – From George Town, board Rapid Penang Bus 203 or 204. Walk uphill to the temple after getting off at the Air Itam market.
By Taxi or Grab – For groups or people with little time, using a taxi or using Grab is the most cost-effective and convenient choice.
By Car – There is plenty of parking close to the base of the temple. You can either walk or ride the funicular lift to the higher levels from there.

Best Time to Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang is one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most important Buddhist temples. While it’s open year-round, when you visit can make a huge difference in your experience from crowd levels to weather comfort and even cultural festivities.

Weather : Penang gets hot, really hot during the day. The higher you go, the cooler it gets. But with the sun beaming as you hike up the hills and staircases, you will sweat during the journey. Opt to visit the temple early morning or around 4 pm.

Crowd Tips: Visitors can visit the Kek Lok Si temple every day from 7.00 am to 5.30 pm. Once inside, you can stay and roam in the temple complex till 6 pm. The rush hours begin after 10 am, so plan your visit in such a way that you arrive early to bask in the tranquil environment of the temple. It takes around two hours for you to explore the temple complex at a leisurely pace. You must plan to visit the temple on weekdays, which are quieter than weekends or public holidays.

Magical Chinese New Year Lantern Display

• The Chinese New Year is the best time to visit the temple. The temple is open till 11 pm. Seeing the lantern light up at night and illuminate the entire temple complex is a magical sight to watch!
• Visitors can visit the Kek Lok Si temple every day from 7.00 am to 5.30 pm. Once inside, you can stay and roam in the temple complex till 6 pm. The rush hours begin after 10 am, so plan your visit in such a way that you arrive early to bask in the tranquil environment of the temple. It takes around two hours for you to explore the temple complex at a leisurely pace.

Entry Fee and Opening Hours

No entrance fee or admission fee is required to visit the Kek Lok Si temple. However, a visit to some areas of the temple is chargeable.

• RM 2 entrance fees to visit the pagoda, RM 1 for children under 13 years.
• RM 16 for a return trip for the inclined lift or cable car, free for children depending upon their age.

In addition, occasional donation runs are held at the temple to fund future construction projects and for the maintenance of the temple.

Opening Hours – The temple is open daily from 7 am to 5.30 pm.

Things to See Inside Kek Lok Si Temple

There is plenty to explore in the vast Penang Kek Lok Si Temple complex.

• Buddha Pavilion – As you proceed up from the Avalokiteshvara Hall, the path leads up through a finely decorated corridor facing a landscaped garden. There are dozens of Buddha statues on the perimeter of this landscaped garden, and in the center is a building with smaller prayer halls.
• Avalokiteshvara Hall – The shrine at Avalokiteshvara Hall is where three majestic seated Boddhisattva wait for believers in prayer. The hall is adorned by hundreds of small niches where seated Buddha figurines are placed.
• Kuan Yin Statue – Kuan Yin, also called the Goddess of Mercy, is worshipped by women to beget children. It is a 36.5-meter-high statue of the Goddess sheltered by a Chinese-styled roof supported by 16 pillars.
• Pagoda Ban Pho Tar – The seven-story pagoda, with ten thousand bronze statues, is the main attraction of the temple. King Rama VI of Thailand laid the foundation of this pagoda. Hence, it is also called Rama Pagoda. It combines a Chinese, Thai, and Burmese design, reflecting the amalgamation of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism.
• The Liberation Pond – The Liberation Pond is a large pool filled with many beautiful tortoises. According to Chinese tradition, turtles symbolize strength, endurance, and long life. The pond surrounded by Chinese arched bridges and a viewing platform is a must-stop on your way up to the first level of the temple.

Visiting During Chinese New Year? Here’s What to Expect

The temple transforms into a colorful wonderland during the Chinese New Year season, which is often in late January or early February. You can experience,

• Thousands of red and gold lanterns are lighting up the temple at night.
• Special prayer ceremonies and festive events.
• A buzzing crowd of locals and tourists who flock here to witness the celebration.

Interesting Kek Lok Si Temple Facts

• The Kek Lok Si is a 130-year-old temple built over an area of 12 hectares and is said to be the oldest and largest temple in Malaysia.
• This temple is among the few places where Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism teachings are practiced together with a harmonious blend of Chinese culture.
• The temple has a seven-story pagoda that houses ten thousand alabaster and bronze statues of Buddha.
• The architectural design of the Kek Lok Si temple draws inspiration from different countries like Thailand, China, and Myanmar.
• The octagonal base of the tower is built, taking inspiration from the Chinese style. The middle tiers are made, taking inspiration from the Thai style. The top tier of the pagoda or crown of the temple in yellow has a Burmese design.
• Along the way to the hilltop, you come across statues of the twelve zodiac animals such as ox, rat, tiger, rabbit, snake, dragon, horse, monkey, sheep, rooster, dog, and pig.

Tips for Your Visit to Kek Lok Si Temple – Dress Code and Etiquette

There is no signage in the temple or enforcement to follow any dress code. But the Kek Lok Si temple is a religious site. Therefore, all visitors are expected to dress modestly to show respect. Cover your shoulders and knees as a general rule of thumb. Since this temple is uphill, you will have to walk a lot. So, avoid wearing heels. Remember to remove your shoes outside the prayer halls.

As a sign of respect, take off your shoes when you visit temple halls. Keep your voice low, and do not disturb worshippers during prayer services. You can take pictures, but always be careful, and do not use flash in places of worship

FAQs Before You Go to Kek Lok Si Temple

Conclusion

Kek Lok Si temple is an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists from Hong Kong, the Philippines, Singapore, and other countries in Southeast Asia. Make sure to take advantage of the delicious street food like Asam Laksa, Curry Mee, and Rojak available in the area.