Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. In the hills of Ayer Itam, a suburb of George Town on Penang Island, it is not just the size this pilgrimage site impresses with. The architecture of Kek Lok Si Temple’s pagodas and prayer halls, thousands of Buddha images, a larger-than-life Guan Yin statue, and meticulously maintained gardens, all come to life during the Chinese New Year. For an entire month, thousands of lights color the place after dark, creating an electrified wonderland that became one of the most popular Penang attractions.
Kek Lok Si is a spiritual Disneyland, with even a short train ride, though not as exciting as a real roller coaster
Over the years, I have visited Kek Lok Si Temple light-up on several occasions. Every time, I was fascinated by the combination of traditional lanterns, neon, and LED lights that make one mistake this sacred complex for a theme park.
The moment twilight hits, someone presses a button (or several buttons, I imagine), and the Penang light show begins. Hundreds of spectators pull out their cameras, pressing their buttons too. It’s a spiritual Disneyland, with even a short train ride, though not as exciting as a real roller coaster.
Kek Lok Si Temple at night has a valid Instagram potential. But it has been attracting devotees long before the light play started in the 1990s. For generations, Buddhists from Malaysia, China, and beyond have come here to seek blessings, perform rituals, and make merit, all in hopes of achieving a little more inner peace, and, at the very best, better karma.
In this article, you’ll find out what lies beneath all the twinkling lights, so you can design your Kek Lok Si Temple itinerary and activities according to your preferences. You’ll learn how to visit Kek Lok Si Temple at night and pick up fun facts you never knew you needed.
The Chinese community in Penang is responsible for several more, very special CNY events. Learn more about Chap Goh Mei, the holiday of love, and Pai Ti Kong, the birthday of the Jade Emperor, also known as Hokkien New Year!
How much does the light display cost?
Kek Lok Si Temple entry is free, so naturally, one has to wonder who pays for the spectacular display. Surely, lighting up thousands of lanterns, neon accents, and LED displays for an entire month isn’t powered by good karma alone.
The exact electricity bill for Kek Lok Si Temple CNY lights isn’t publicly disclosed. But considering the scale and duration of the event, the cost of powering such an extensive operation would likely be significant.
With the help of AI, I tried to estimate the cost of Kek Lok Si’s light show. Here’s a little math!
If an average LED light bulb uses about 10 watts, 10,000 lights would require a total wattage of 100,000 watts, or 100 kilowatts. The light show typically runs for about 5 hours each night, so the daily energy consumption clocks in at 500 kWh.
The average cost of electricity in Malaysia is around $0.14 per kWh. Therefore, the daily expense comes to 500 kWh × $0.14 = $70. As the light show runs for about a month, we can give a rough estimate of $2,100 as an electricity cost for Kek Lok Si’s festival of lights.
Kek Lok Si Temple – the meaning behind the name
Kek Lok Si Temple's Chinese name is written as 極樂寺 (Jílèsì in Mandarin, Gik Lok Zi in Cantonese). Or, character by character: 極 (Jí / Gik) – ultimate, supreme 樂 (Lè / Lok) – joy, bliss 寺 (Sì / Zi) – temple, monastery Therefore, 極樂寺 (Jílèsì / Gik Lok Zi) translates as "Temple of Supreme Bliss". This name ties directly into Buddhist teachings, particularly the concept of Amitabha Buddha’s Western Pure Land (極樂世界, Jílè Shìjiè), a paradise of enlightenment free from the cycle of suffering (samsara). In Mahayana Buddhism, this golden, jewel-filled land is a place of rebirth, where souls achieve eternal happiness. Kek Lok Si’s Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas embodies this philosophy, with large Amitabha Buddha statues reflecting his role as a savior figure. Devotees engage in prayers and merit-making rituals hoping to secure a one-way ticket to the Pure Land. They believe that by chanting Amitabha’s name (念佛, niànfó) with sincerity, they can be reborn in his paradise. Thus, Kek Lok Si represents more than just another religious site. It is a spiritual sanctuary where people seek an upgrade to a higher plane of existence.
Kek Lok Si history
Kek Lok Si’s history begins in the late 1800s, during the Qing dynasty. The temple founder was Venerable Beow Lean, a Buddhist monk from Fujian, China. He arrived in Penang and recognized that the island’s growing Chinese community needed a spiritual refuge. His vision? A grand Mahayana Buddhist temple dedicated to wisdom, peace, and enlightenment.
Financially backed by local Chinese tycoons, the construction of Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang began on December 6th, 1891. The hillside location in Ayer Itam (formerly spelled as Air Itam), named Crane Hill (Huock-san), was chosen for its feng shui harmony with nature.
By 1905, Kek Lok Si Temple’s main prayer hall was complete, quickly cementing itself as a major Buddhist pilgrimage site in Southeast Asia.
In 1906, Emperor Guangxu of China personally gifted sacred Buddhist scriptures and calligraphy scrolls to be housed at the temple. This royal endorsement elevated Kek Lok Si’s status and prestige, attracting devotees and monks from across Asia.
Over the next two decades, more halls, pavilions, and meditation areas were added, expanding Kek Lok Si’s role as a center of Buddhist teachings, monastic life, and cultural heritage.
In the 1930s, they erected the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, and in the 2000s, yet another expansion saw the construction of the giant Guan Yin bronze statue.
Today, Kek Lok Si Temple is 120 years old. It aged well, becoming one of the largest and most significant Buddhist sites in Southeast Asia, drawing in both pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
Kek Lok Si Temple architecture
Kek Lok Si Temple architecture blends Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences. The sanctuary’s design reflects both its rich history and regional Buddhist connections, as well as the multicultural heritage of Penang.
From the traditional upturned eaves adorned with dragons and phoenixes to the walls covered in Buddhist scriptures and Buddha images, every detail is masterfully crafted, but also rich in deep spiritual symbolism.
The temple’s architecture celebrates the diverse Buddhist traditions of Southeast Asia. Primarily influenced by Mahayana Buddhism, Kek Lok Si also incorporates elements of Theravāda Buddhism, evident in its stupas and decorative motifs.
Built on multiple levels, the temple is structured in a way that guides visitors on both a physical and spiritual journey. Starting at the grand entrance arch, a path through the tiered layout encourages gradual, possibly cardio-intensive exploration.
The lower levels feature prayer halls and peaceful gardens with manicured bonsai trees. As visitors ascend, they encounter ornate Chinese pavilions, imposing pagodas, and monumental statues, all designed to elevate the experience of worship and wonder.
At the highest point, devotees reach the grand Guan Yin Pavilion, home to one of the world’s tallest statues of the Goddes of Mercy. Here, the views of the skyscraping skyline of George Town complement the classic grandeur of Kek Lok Si.
What to do in Kek Lok Si Temple – the highlights
There are plenty of things to see and explore here, so let’s go on a quick Kek Lok Si tour!
1. Guan Yin statue
The Guan Yin statue (sometimes spelled Kuan Yin or Kwan Yin) is one of the most iconic features of Kek Lok Si, so colossal that she could probably see traffic jams on the Penang Bridge. Standing at 30.2 meters tall, this bronze statue of the Bodhisattva of Mercy is among the tallest representations of this deity in the world.
She could have been even taller, but local regulations ensured she wouldn’t cast a shadow over the Penang State Mosque. Well, there’s some compensation, as the main goddess statue is surrounded by a hundred smaller ones, each reaching 2 meters in height.
Funded entirely by donations, the Guan Yin statue was completed in 2002. It was originally open-air, but due to exposure to the elements (the lesson was learned in 1993, when the original statue, made of plaster, was damaged by rain and fire), a monumental pavilion was added in 2009. Sixteen carved granite pillars now hold an octagonal roof, a three-tier pagoda, marking a focal point of the temple.
For devotees, the Goddess of Mercy embodies compassion. They believe her gaze can bring peace, prosperity, and guidance. As they approach the foot of the Guan Yin statue, worshippers light incense, offer prayers, and seek blessings and protection.
The Kuan Yin Bodhimandala (the circle of awakening) transcends sectarian boundaries, attracting worshippers from both Chinese Mahayana and Southeast Asian Theravāda communities.
Next to the Guan Yin Pavilion, you’ll find the Water Pavilion (not a place to release turtles or fish – we’ll get to that part soon!), and a garden with Chinese Zodiac animals represented. Try to find yours!
2. The Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas
Another striking landmark of Kek Lok Si Temple is the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, sometimes ambitiously referred to as the Pagoda of a Million Buddhas. Also known as Ban Pho Tar, this seven-tier pagoda enshrines over 10,000 alabaster, jade, and bronze Buddha statues.
Completed in the 1930s, thanks to the sponsorship from King Rama VI of Thailand, Kek Lok Si’s famous pagoda is a rare melting pot of architectural styles from three different Buddhist traditions, fusing Mahayana and Theravāda Buddhist aesthetics.
The octagonal base is Chinese, adorned with traditional red and gold motifs, intricate carvings, and upturned eaves. The middle section honors Thai culture, featuring a more slender, elongated design. The top is Burmese, crowned with a golden stupa, reminiscent of Myanmar’s shining religious monuments.
Pilgrims visit the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas to offer prayers, light candles, and meditate. They believe that the numerous Buddha images radiate special positive energy, wisdom, and blessings.
To get to the upper levels of the 30-meter-tall Kek Lok Si pagoda, with panoramic views of the temple complex and the surrounding hills, you can climb the inner spiral staircase.
Just don’t get too caught up counting Buddhas – you’ll be here all day.
3. Prayer halls
Kek Lok Si Temple is home to several majestic prayer halls, each serving as a hub for worship, meditation, and blessings.
At the heart of Kek Lok Si stands the Main Prayer Hall, where three golden Buddha statues take center stage. They represent the past, present, and future Buddhas. The architecture here is quintessentially Chinese, with red pillars, lotus motifs on the ceiling, and walls inscribed with Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist teachings. This is a place for daily prayers and chanting ceremonies.
Beyond the main hall, other prayer spaces worth exploring are the Hall of the Laughing Buddha, the Guan Yin Hall, the Amitabha Buddha Pagoda, and the Hall of Bodhisattvas.
4. Tortoise Liberation Pond
Kek Lok Si Tortoise Pond or Turtle Liberation Pond (Fàngshēngchí) has been a temple attraction since its early days. Even if turtles can live long lives, it is believed the oldest ones have been residing in this century-old home for a few decades.
Among the hundreds of freshwater turtles in Tortoise Liberation Pond, the most common are Asian pond turtles and softshell turtles. Visitors can feed them with the food purchased at the temple.
For Buddhists, turtles are symbols of endurance, longevity, and wisdom. Releasing turtles into the pond is seen as an act of compassion and merit-making. Many devotees purchase turtles just to “set them free” in this overcrowded “water prison”, believing that it will bring them good karma and blessings.
Of course, the idea behind the Buddhist practice of fangsheng or “life release” is to liberate animals from captivity or slaughter destiny (kind of like the U.S. president pardoning a Thanksgiving turkey). The ethical release would imply letting turtles live in natural habitats instead of showing “mercy” by sentencing them to life in an enclosed pond.
5. Kek Lok Si souvenir shops
Along the entrance path to the Kek Lok Si Temple, but also at its middle and upper stations, one can find souvenir shops and market stalls selling everything from Buddhist artifacts to local snacks. Whether you’re looking for a miniature Guan Yin statue, a monk-blessed lucky charm, incense sticks, prayer beads, jade bracelets, or a tasty local treat, Kek Lok Si Temple shops will have a lot to offer.
6. Kek Lok Si food
Beyond just providing food for the soul, Kek Lok Si can nourish your body’s needs too. Here’s where to fuel up!
Kek Lok Si Temple has its own vegetarian restaurant, located within the temple grounds. It serves authentic Buddhist cuisine, without garlic, onion, or animal products. The only meat specialties they serve are made of mock meat – such as “mutton” soup, “prawn” roll, braised “duck”, or “fish” vermicelli. Prices are reasonable and, depending on the size of the portion, they range between 4 and 24 ringgit. Set lunch costs 10 MYR (just above 2 euros/dollars). The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Just outside the temple, Ayer Itam is home to some legendary Penang dishes. Air Itam Laksa is a famous stall that has been serving up bowl after bowl of tangy, spicy, and flavorful asam laksa for decades. Made with a fish-based broth, tamarind, lemongrass, fresh herbs, and a spoonful of prawn paste, this rice noodle dish is a must-try for lovers of bold flavors. If willing to stay in a queue, expect to pay 7 ringgit (1.5 euro/dollar) for a bowl.
Would you prefer to eat curry mee after your Kek Lok Si visit? You’ll find this spicy, creamy, coconut-based soup with yellow noodles, seafood, and tofu at Ayer Itam Market hawker stalls (morning and afternoon hours).
If you want to try nasi kandar near Kek Lok Si temple, head to Nasi Kandar Kampung Melayu or Nasi Kandar Ali Air Itam. Both restaurants are perfect for the night owls, offering a flavorful Malaysian-Indian fare for a post-temple snack. Fragrant rice, a rich curry (ask for kuah banjir – flooded with gravy), and then combine different meats and seafood (from crispy chicken and beef rendang to fish roe). Of course, you can always add veggies of choice to Penang’s best comfort food. All menu items are under 8 Malaysian ringgit (1.7 euro/1.8 dollar).
Whether you prefer a simple temple meal or Penang’s street food wonders, you’ll find some nice, good food options near Kek Lok Si Temple.
The best time to visit Kek Lok Si Temple
Timing your visit to Kek Lok Si Temple can make a big difference in your experience. Whether you want to enjoy a peaceful exploration, witness the temple lit up in all its glory, or soak in the festive atmosphere, here’s when to go!
Best season – dry season (December – April)
The dry season is a period with less rain and clearer skies. Of course, you should expect larger crowds during peak holiday periods (Christmas, New Year, Chinese New Year).
If visiting between May and November (rainy season), bring an umbrella, and prepare for humid weather, occasional downpours, and sometimes fog-obstructed views.
Best time of day – morning or late afternoon
Besides being ideal times of the day to avoid the midday heat and crowds, mornings and late afternoons are also preferred times for photography, especially if you visit Kek Lok Si Temple during the golden hours (early morning, or just before sunset).
Of course, during the festivals, when the temple is open at night, evening visits are quite special.
Best time for special events – Chinese New Year and Wesak Day
Kek Lok Si Temple is the most interesting during the Chinese New Year (January or February). Besides the CNY fireworks, thousands of lanterns glowing in brilliant red and gold, create a magical atmosphere. The lights turn on at sunset time. Try to visit on weekdays, for fewer crowds.
Kek Lok Si Temple light-up dates vary from year to year. For your provisional Penang planning, the lighting ceremony starts 4 days before Chinese New Year, and the temple stays illuminated for an entire month. During this period, Kek Lok Si Temple extends its visiting hours, allowing guests to explore the annual Penang light show until 10 or 11 pm.
Another recommended date to visit Kek Lok Si is Wesak Day (Buddha’s birthday falls in April or May, depending on the year). Expect candlelit processions and chanting ceremonies.
How long do you need at Kek Lok Si Temple?
How much time should you spend at Kek Lok Si Temple? This depends on how much you want to explore.
For a quick visit that covers the main highlights, allow yourself at least 1 hour.
If you want to explore the temple at a relaxed pace, visit all prayer halls, climb the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, stroll around the Guan Yin Pavilion, and feed turtles at the Turtle Liberation Pond, reserve 2 to 3 hours. You might even squeeze in a meal at the vegetarian restaurant.
If you are in a temple-enthusiast mode, you can easily spend more than 4 hours at Kek Lok Si Temple. This is perfect for those who take their time with photography, and admire the details of every part of the temple complex. If visiting during Chinese New Year, evening light-up will certainly extend your sunset visit too.
Visitor information
Kek Lok Si opening hours
Kek Lok Si Temple’s operating hours are officially from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
During the Chinese New Year light-up, Kek Lok Si closing time moves to later hours, normally to 10 or 11 pm.
Kek Lok Si entrance fee
Visiting Kek Lok Si Temple is mostly free of charge, but some sections require a small admission fee, also called – a donation (an obligatory one if you want to pass through).
For visiting the Main Temple complex and prayer halls, Turtle Liberation Pond, and souvenir stalls, there is no entrance fee, as they are open to all visitors.
If you want to access the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, the entry will cost you 2 Malaysian ringgit.
Kek Lok Si Temple inclined lift to the Guan Yin Statue has a price of 3 ringgit per ride (RM 6 for a return ticket).
If you don’t mind walking uphill for about 10-15 minutes, you can save yourself a lift cost, but you’ll still have to pay for the entrance when you reach Guan Yin Pavilion. The obligatory donation is 2 ringgit (this fee is waived if you take the inclined lift).
Kek Lok Si Temple rules & etiquette
When visiting Kek Lok Si, keep in mind that it’s considered a sacred Buddhist site, so a little mindfulness goes a long way. Here’s what to remember about the general etiquette:
- Be quiet and respectful. Avoid loud conversations, music playing, or other disruptive behavior at an active place of worship.
- Don’t smoke, drink, or eat inside prayer halls.
- Refrain from public displays of affection. Holding hands is usually fine, but kissing or hugging might be seen as inappropriate.
- Don’t touch or point at Buddha statues. It’s considered disrespectful.
- Give way to monks and worshippers, especially during prayer processions.
- Photography is allowed, but avoid close-up shots of people praying.
- No drone use without permission from Kek Lok Si Temple authorities.
- Don’t bring pets, they won’t be allowed to enter.
- Feed turtles responsibly. If you want to participate in the Turtle Liberation Pond tradition, buy proper turtle food from vendors.
Kek Lok Si Temple dress code
Wondering what to wear to Kek Lok Si Temple? While there isn’t an extremely strict dress code, wearing appropriate clothes at this sacred Buddhist site shows respect.
What to wear (recommended Kek Lok Si Temple attire)
✔ Modest clothing – Cover your shoulders and knees.
✔ Loose, breathable fabrics – It can get hot and humid, so wear light materials.
✔ Comfortable shoes – You’ll be walking a lot, so opt for good sneakers, sandals, or walking shoes.
What not to wear (avoid these)
❌ Shorts or miniskirts – Knee-length or longer is best.
❌ Sleeveless tops, crop tops, or low-cut shirts – A t-shirt or blouse is a better choice.
❌ Slippers or high heels – Some prayer halls require shoe removal, so wear practical footwear.
Chinese New Year dress code tips
1. Wear red or bright colors to join the festive spirit.
2. Avoid black or all-white outfits, as these are associated with mourning in Chinese culture.
How to go up Kek Lok Si Temple
Getting to the top of Kek Lok Si Temple involves multiple levels, and how you reach the upper sections depends on how much effort you’re willing to put in.
Kek Lok Si Temple via stairs
If you don’t mind challenging your calf muscles, you can explore all temple sections completely on foot, following a network of staircases and inclined pathways.
There isn’t an exact, official count of all the steps in Kek Lok Si Temple, but if you’re planning to walk all the way up, expect several hundred steps in total. The Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas itself requires 200+ steep spiral steps!
If you plan to walk around the entire Kek Lok Si complex, prepare for a serious hike. Call it a leg day.
Kek Lok Si Temple via the inclined lift
For those who want to cut down the exercise, especially in Penang’s heat and humidity, a convenient shortcut between the mid-level temple complex and the Giant Guan Yin Statue is the inclined lift.
This skylift operates both ways, so you can choose to take it up and walk down (or vice versa). The ticket price for the lift is RM 3 per way (RM 6 return).
Taking this short train/tram ride one way up saves you from paying the obligatory donation of 2 ringgit, collected at the place where hikers enter. So essentially, you’re paying just 1 ringgit difference when heading to the Guan Yin Statue area by lift.
During busy periods, there might be queues, as the Kek Lok Si Temple funicular can take around 10 adults per ride.
Is Kek Kok Si Temple wheelchair-accessible?
Unfortunately, due to its many stairs and uneven pathways, Kek Lok Si Temple is not wheelchair-friendly.
If you still want to explore it in a wheelchair, your best option would be to park your car at the top-level car park, or even better, arrive via Grab, and ask to be dropped off at the top – near the Guan Yin Pavilion entrance.
For the best experience, bring assistance, and visit the temple in the morning, when crowds are thinner.
If you can walk but have difficulties walking barefoot, keep in mind that some prayer halls require removing shoes.
When coming with small children, bring a baby carrier instead of a stroller.
How to get to Kek Lok Si Temple?
Kek Lok Si Temple is located in Ayer Itam, about 8 km from George Town Center. It is easy to reach using public transport, ride-hailing services, or private vehicles. Here are your best options:
1. By bus
Taking a Rapid Penang bus is the cheapest way to get to Kek Lok Si. Hop on bus number 203 or 204 at Komtar (George Town’s main bus hub), and get off at Pekan Air Itam stop.
The fare should be 2-3 ringgit, and the journey should last 45-60 minutes.
From the bus stop, you’ll need to walk some 15 minutes through the market area to the temple entrance.
2. By Grab/taxi
A Grab ride from George Town is the easiest way to reach Kek Lok Si Temple without the hassle of walking or waiting for buses. It costs 12 – 25 ringgit, depending on demand.
Getting to Kek Lok Si Temple by taxi may cost 30 – 40 ringgit.
The journey time would be 20-30 minutes.
If you choose a drop-off at the lower entrance (near the souvenir market), you’ll need to take a short uphill walk. Some drivers may agree to take you higher up and drop you at the inclined lift entrance, for an easier visit.
3. By car
If you’re renting a car or driving your own, the parking at Kek Lok Si will cost you 10 ringgit.
During weekends and Chinese New Year, roads in Ayer Itam can be very congested. While driving all the way up to Kek Lok Si Temple may seem like the most convenient option, the reality is you’ll spend many minutes waiting in your car as it slowly inches up the hill.
Instead of parking at the Kek Lok Si Temple car park, leave your vehicle further down the road and walk up from there (locals will wave at you, directing you to the parking spots even before you reach the temple).
Distances from popular spots to the temple are as follows:
– from Penang Hill lower station to Kek Lok Si Temple – 2 km (6 min drive)
– from Gurney Drive / Gurney Plaza to Kek Lok Si Temple – 9 km (15 min drive)
– from Chew Jetty to Kek Lok Si Temple – 9 km (16 min drive)
– from Sweetenham Pier Cruise Terminal to Kek Lok Si Temple – 10 km (18 min drive)
– from Queensbay Mall to Kek Lok Si Temple – 13 km (18 min drive)
– from Snake Temple to Kek Lok Si Temple – 13 km (19 min drive)
– from Batu Ferringhi to Kek Lok Si Temple – 19 km (28 min drive)
– from Ipoh to Kek Lok Si Temple – 160 km (2 hour drive)
– from Kuala Lumpur to Kek Lok Si Temple – 355 km (4 hour drive)
4. On an organized tour
For a hassle-free visit, book a tour that includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within George Town.
A half-day tour, which includes guided visits to both Kek Lok Si and Penang Hill, is available at a price of $45 (42 euros).
Attractions near Kek Lok Si Temple
After (or before?) exploring Kek Lok Si, why not check out some nearby attractions? Whether you’re into scenic views, markets, or hidden murals, there’s plenty to see within a short distance.
These are the most interesting places to visit in the vicinity of Kek Lok Si Temple:
1. Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
Just 2 km away, Penang Hill is one of the best spots in Penang for panoramic views of George Town and the coastline. Ride the steepest funicular train in Asia, visit the Habitat, a rainforest eco-park with a canopy walk and scenic treetop views, and enjoy an afternoon tea at David Brown’s Restaurant.
2. Ayer Itam Market
Located just below Kek Lok Si Temple, Ayer Itam Market is a local foodie paradise and a great place to soak in Penang’s street life. Besides trying Penang’s famous Ayer Itam Asam Laksa, grab some fresh local fruits, snacks, and souvenirs. The bustling atmosphere and colorful stalls make for cool street photographs too!
3. Street art murals
While George Town is famous for its street art, the Ayer Itam area also has mural gems worth checking out. Walk around the Ayer Itam Market, and keep an eye out for Sister Curry Mee (illustrating famous elderly sisters who ran a legendary noodle stall for decades), Susu Tarik (local Indian that makes the iconic frothy milk drink), Generation to Generation (Penang’s cultural heritage), Kites Got Stuck (childhood nostalgia), and Gorilla on Motorbike mural (for a touch of surreal)!
4. Ayer Itam Dam
If you’d like to spend some time at a peaceful and scenic nature spot, Ayer Itam Dam offers lush greenery, cool air, and breathtaking views of Penang Island. Take a scenic walk or jog around the dam, enjoy lake and mountain backdrops, and spot local wildlife and birds in their natural habitat.
Hotels near Kek Lok Si Temple
While Ayer Itam isn’t a major hotel district, there are still a few decent accommodation options nearby.
If you wish to stay super close to Kek Lok Si Temple, your best pick is probably Kek Lok Si Inn, a short walk away. Located above a Chinese restaurant, the hotel offers spacious rooms at budget-friendly prices. Convenient private parking is available. Look for their best rates on Booking and Agoda.
For something bigger, consider DeView Hotel Penang. As its name suggests, this hotel offers fantastic views of the hills, particularly of the neighboring Kek Lok Si. Rooms are modern and well-rated, and they come with a breakfast. Check them out on Booking or Agoda.
If you prefer more choices, George Town (15-20 min away) offers a wider selection of hotels, from budget stays to luxury boutique hotels.
Is Kek Lok Si Temple worth visiting? – Conclusion
All my Kek Lok Si Temple visits happened during the Chinese New Year light-up period. While I cannot give personal feedback on temple life for the rest of the year, I can vouch for Kek Lok Si in this special season, when the Festival of Lights transforms it into a neon nirvana.
For a month, Kek Lok Si becomes the “Disneyland of temples”. Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, a photography enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a good scenic view, Kek Lok Si Temple firmly grips the list of Penang’s greatest attractions.
Kek Lok Si during the annual light-up is a fairytale temple. Imagine Las Vegas, but swap slot machines for prayer halls.
This is, after all, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, a masterpiece of cultural fusion that impresses with its architectural marvels, from the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas to the towering Guan Yin statue.
Kek Lok Si’s peaceful vibes are perfect for reflection. The food nearby is delicious. And there is always the view – Penang panorama from Ayer Itam Hill is something special.
If you like culture, heritage, photography, and nature, you’ll love Kek Lok Si. The lantern temple with glowing pagodas embraces its visitors whether they are spiritual seekers or just casual travelers.
Sure, there could be a few downsides to your Kek Lok Si visit. If you get there during the year’s worst rush hour, you might not enjoy the crowds. You might hate all the stairs too.
But other than that, Kek Lok Si during the annual light-up is a fairytale temple, one of the most iconic landmarks in Malaysia, and a top attraction in Penang. Imagine Las Vegas, but swap slot machines for prayer halls.
The floating temple of lights offers a unique blend of culture, religion, and views. Kek Lok Si is not just worth it. It’s a must-see.
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Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you click on them and make a purchase, Pipeaway may make a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting our work! The authors of all photographs are mentioned in image titles and Alt Text descriptions. In order of appearance, these are: Ivan Kralj - all photographs except for Photo no. 8 - mouse sculpture - Balon Greyjoy Photo no. 14 - turtles - Balou46, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 Photo no. 15 - curry mee - JB Macatulad Photo no. 17 - fireworks - HundenvonPenang, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Photo no. 22 - inclined lift - CEphoto, Uwe Aranas, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
