The Most Spectacular Temples in Malaysia
In Malaysia, the Buddhist and Hindu communities have their daily rituals and religious celebrations at the temples. Each temple has its own unique history and architectural designs, dedicated to their ancestors and holy deities. Here is the list of Malaysia’s most spectacular temples for you to start exploring.
1. Batu Caves Temple
Shrine
2. Kek Lok Si Temple
Buddhist Temple
3. Sri Mahamariamman Temple
Hindu Temple, Shrine
5. Khoo Kongsi Temple
Khoo Kongsi Temple is one of Penang’s iconic heritages that represent the Hakka community. The temple was built in the 19th century, decorated with stone carvings and murals of divine guardians, deities, immortals, carps and dragons. It is a gathering place for Chinese families with the surname to come to worship their ancestors. The temple maintains its unique history including an association house, a traditional theatre and rowhouses for the clan members gathered at a granite-paved square. The temple is located at the Canon Square in the heart of old Georgetown.
18, Cannon Square, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, 04-261 4609
6. Snake Temple
Park
Built in 1950, the Snake Temple honors a Buddhist priest and healer Choo Soo Kong. According to a legend, the priest provided shelter for the jungle snakes which are believed to have become the priest’s disciples. After he passed away, these snakes made the temple their own home. Walk through the temple entrance and you will see a big incense burner in the middle of the temple hall with sculpted statues and carvings. Toward the back of the temple is a snake pool with fruit trees coiled with snakes.
Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Bayan Lepas Industrial Park, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang, 04-643 7273
7. Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple
Hindu Temple, Shrine
8. Sam Poh Tong Temple
Buddhist Temple
Sam Poh Tong Temple is located within a limestone hill of Gunung Rapat, Ipoh. It is a magnificent temple of art and faith, with various Buddhist statues among natural stalactites and stalagmites. Walk around the beautifully decorated pavilion and a mesmerising landscape garden with a fish pond. In 1993, this tranquil area was celebrated as Malaysia’s ‘Best Landscape Gaden’. Climb the 246-step staircase and be amazed with the views of Ipoh and the temple surroundings. Feed the turtles at the pond and wish for great fortune at the wishing well.
9. Ling Sen Tong Temple
Ling Sen Tong Temple is a Taoist cave temple at the foot of a limestone hill in Ipoh, Perak. Its name is literally translated as ‘rock of heavenly spirits’. It is right next to the Sam Poh Tong Temple along Jalan Gopeng. The temple consists of many designs, such as animals, deities and other characters of Chinese folklore. You will find colourful statues of Chinese mythology, including the legendary Monkey King from the popular classic tale Journey to the West.
10. Chin Swee Cave Temple
Chin Swee Cave Temple is at a rocky slope near to the peak of Genting Highlands Resort. The temple is a sacred place for devotees to pray to Buddha and the Goddess of Mercy. Discover the essence of Chinese traditions and beliefs within this religious temple. Explore the iconic nine-storey pagoda, lit with 10,000 blessing lamps placed by the devotees and figurines of Buddha. Sink in the wondrous panoramic views of Genting Highlands and enjoy the gentle cool breeze at the observation deck.
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