Kek Lok Si Temple
The sprawling hilltop "Temple of Supreme Bliss."
Supanot Arunoprayote, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Introduction
We consider Kek Lok Si a non-negotiable stop for anyone visiting Penang. Built starting in 1891, the temple isn't just one building; it's a series of tiered gardens, prayer halls, and monuments connected by winding stairways. The atmosphere here is a mix of spiritual devotion and architectural wonder. Whether you’re navigating the colorful souvenir stalls at the base or standing in the shadow of the massive Kuan Yin statue, there’s a sense of scale here that few other temples in Southeast Asia can match.
Whether you’re navigating the colorful souvenir stalls at the base or standing in the shadow of the massive bronze Kuan Yin statue at the summit, there’s a sense of scale here that is truly humbling. We love how the temple seamlessly blends three distinct cultures, Chinese, Thai, and Burmese, into a single "Temple of Supreme Bliss." It is a vibrant, living heritage site that offers not just a lesson in history, but also some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the island.
What to See and Do at Kek Lok Si Temple
Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas (Ban Po Thar)
This 30-meter high pagoda is the temple's architectural crown jewel. It is famous for its "three-style" design: a Chinese octagonal base, a middle tier inspired by Thai architecture, and a Burmese golden crown. Inside, the walls are lined with thousands of alabaster and bronze Buddha statues.
Hours
8:30am – 5:30pm
Fees
RM2
Bronze Kuan Yin Statue
Located at the highest point of the complex, this 36.5-meter statue of the Goddess of Mercy is sheltered by an enormous pavilion supported by 16 intricately carved stone pillars. The area around the statue offers incredible views over George Town and the surrounding hills.
Hours
8:30am – 5:30pm
Fees
Access to the statue zone is RM3
Liberation Pond (Turtle Pond)
Located near the lower entrance, this pond is home to hundreds of turtles. In Buddhist tradition, releasing turtles into a pond is a gesture of "liberation" and a way to gain spiritual merit.
Main Prayer Hall (Hall of Mahavira)
The central hub of the temple features large, gold-plated Buddha statues and beautiful murals. It’s often filled with the scent of incense and the sound of chanting monks.
Zodiac Garden
A landscaped garden near the Kuan Yin statue featuring statues representing the 12 animals of the Chinese Zodiac.
Getting there and around
Kek Lok Si is located in Air Itam, about 9km from George Town. We recommend taking a Grab or taxi directly to the "mid-level entrance" to save yourself a very steep climb through the market tunnels. If you're on a budget, Rapid Penang buses 201, 203, and 204 from Komtar will drop you at the foot of the hill for a few Ringgit. To get between the different levels of the temple, there is an inclined lift (funicular) that saves you from climbing hundreds of stairs.
Hours and fees
Hours
8:30am – 5:30pm daily (Extended hours during Chinese New Year)
Fees
General entry to the temple grounds is free. Inclined lift (funicular) costs RM16 for a round trip (Adults) or RM8 (Children).
Frequently asked questions
What happens during Chinese New Year?
This is the most spectacular time to visit. For 30 days starting from Chinese New Year, the temple is illuminated by tens of thousands of colorful lanterns and neon lights. During this period, the temple stays open late into the night (often until midnight).