image

🌎  Malaysia 🇲🇾

⭐  

4.4
(13300)

📍  Kek Lok Si Temple

✈️  Penang International Airport (PEN)

🚗  21.1 KM

⏱️  31 minutes

Kek Lok Si Temple, Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple, offers a captivating cultural experience nestled on a hillside in Air Itam. Easily accessible by local bus, taxi, or ride-share, visitors can explore independently or opt for a guided tour for deeper insights; a funicular lift and pathways aid accessibility, though some areas involve steps. The temple is open year-round, with Chinese New Year being a particularly festive, albeit crowded, period due to elaborate light displays. While general admission to the complex is free, a small fee (typically RM3-RM6 per section) is charged for the funicular, the impressive Ban Po Thar pagoda, and the Sky Garden featuring the towering bronze Guanyin statue, making it a very affordable destination. A typical visit lasts 2-4 hours, allowing ample time to admire the unique blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architecture, enjoy panoramic views, and explore the many prayer halls and gardens. Visitors should dress modestly as it is an active place of worship.