Kek Lok Si Temple, situated in Air Itam, Pulau Pinang, is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia as well as a popular pilgrimage institution for devotees from Southeast Asia. Packages like Rasa Sayang – Penang Hill extend Further Mountain can now be booked through several ticketing websites. 

Directions to Kek Lok Si Temple

The town of Air Itam is located around 8–9 kilometers away from both the city of George Town as well as Batu Ferringhi. Then, let’s look at the map and spelling to not forget which island is which. 

Also, you might book a Grab car for a faster and more straightforward alternative. 

In the case of congestion, it will cost a traveled distance of around RM 20-RM40, with the duration of traveling distance between 25 mins from George Town to 45 mins to Batu Ferringhi. 

Reaching the Temple Boundary

You’ll be taken to the main gates once you disembark. For those who wish to drive, quite a few parking spaces are situated nearby, although these are not free. Just before proceeding to the temple, do not forget to go to the pond area where you can see a number of tortoises. 

Touring the Complex

The temple has several levels, the most memorable one for visitors being the top level with a statue of Guanyin 120 feet tall. You can access this area by foot or through the lift cable. Because the walk is steep and can be somewhat tiring during the hot weather, the majority of visitors choose the lift within the building. 

The inclined lift operates from 830 am to 530 pm and it’s compulsory to pay RM16 for a return ticket (RM8 one way). From the lift station, you will first take an aerial cable

car, then transfer via golf cart to the next station and board another aerial cable car which will take you to the top of the mountain. 

Notable Attraction on the Journey to the Summit

As you reach the summit, you will be welcomed by the Guanyin statue which is incredibly tall and has a beautifully carved pavilion. 

The sheer size of the structure is impressive, and the little statuettes that are in the back do not go unnoticed either. Make sure to walk around as well, because there is a small pond with little colorful fish which is a beautiful place. 

The balcony at the very top allows a panoramic view of Air Itam, George Town, Penang Hill, and the Strait of Malacca. Regardless of whether you go during the day or late in the evening when the sun sets, the view is one to behold. 

Going Down the Temple 

Moving from the pavilion of Guanyin, take the road downhill to see the rest of the temple. Along the way, you’ll see decorative arches and arrive at the main praying chambers as well as the pagoda that is easily recognizable. 

Kek Lok Si Pagoda is an exceptional temple as it is a three-tiered structure that incorporates Chinese, Thai, and Burmese styles. You can ascend to the very top of the pagoda for a little fee of RM2. The steps are rather steep and old, which means they demand quite some energy, but the views plus the complicated designs on every stage are well worth it. 

Overview 

The central part of the temple compound contains all the praying halls, statues, pavilions, and gardens on offer in the Southern temple. There are no designated paths so do not be in a rush to move from one section of the temple to the other. 

Observe the ceilings in the prayer halls—they are held with elegant worked-out decoration and designs.

To make the most of your visit, plan on around 2-3 hours to be at the temple. If you are a temple architecture buff, you might even want to take longer. 

What to Know Before You Go 

1. Wear the Right Clothes: It is a religious place so it is wise to dress conservatively. Shorts are something many visitors wear, but it is preferable to wear clothes that cover both shoulders and knees. 

2. Drink Plenty of Water: Though vendors selling refreshments and snacks are available inside the complex, it is advisable to carry a bottle of water.

3. Put on and Off Footwear Effortlessly: It will be the requirement for everyone to take off their shoes as they are going inside the prayer halls. 

4. Use Cash: Cash is the only mode of payment for entrance fees. 

What will you do After Your Tours?

When you have finished viewing the temple, you can reverse your journey back to the town. For those who still wish to have some fun, there is the Penang Hill funicular just one kilometer away. 

Air Itam on the other hand, should itself be afforded a brief visit. Head to the food court at Beng Chin Garden and try out some of the local Penang dishes like Char Kway Teow and Hakka Mee. It is an excellent place to chill out before being picked up by your Grab car. 

Conclusion

There is so much more than a mere site that visitors can engage in when they visit the Kek Lok Si Temple but rather a piece that contributes to the long history of the people of Penang and their culture and religion. 

Every detail of the temple is distinctive, ranging from the massive Guanyin statue to the intricate carvings on the prayer halls and pagodas. If you need peace of mind,

beautiful architecture, or simply unique sights, this exceptional venue will not let you down. 

As a result, when planning your time in Penang, make sure to include Kek Lok Si Temple, and you will relive the experience long after your trip has ended.