Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si Temple, the "Temple of Supreme Bliss," is one of the largest and most magnificent Chinese temples in Southeast Asia and is a premier landmark in Penang. Perched majestically on a hillside in Air Itam, this sprawling temple complex is a national icon and a must-visit attraction. The construction of the temple began in 1890 and it has been expanding ever since, resulting in a fascinating collection of prayer halls, pavilions, bell towers, and beautifully landscaped gardens, all built on multiple tiers up the hillside.

The temple's three most famous features are the stunning, seven-tiered "Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas," which incorporates Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles; the colossal 30.2-meter-tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy; and the vast prayer hall that houses many statues of Buddha and other deities. A visit to Kek Lok Si is a profound spiritual and cultural experience, offering not only religious insight but also breathtaking panoramic views of the island.