Kek Lok Si Temple: A Serene Haven of Culture and Spirituality in Penang
Explore the enchanting Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, a cultural gem filled with stunning architecture and serene spirituality.
Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the largest Buddhist temples in Malaysia, is a breathtaking sight that blends cultural heritage with serene spirituality. Nestled in the lush hills of Penang, this temple complex offers a tranquil escape for tourists seeking to explore the rich traditions of Buddhism amidst stunning architecture and vibrant gardens.
A brief summary to Kek Lok Si Penang (தூய நிலக் கோயில்/極樂寺)
- 196, Jln Balik Pulau, Air Itam, Penang, 11500, MY
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and cooler temperatures.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through various levels of the temple.
- Don't miss the opportunity to try local snacks at the nearby market after your visit.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the pagoda.
- Respect the local customs and dress modestly while in the temple.
Getting There
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Bus
From George Town, head to the nearest bus stop. You can take the Rapid Penang Bus No. 201 or 202 from Komtar Bus Terminal. These buses run frequently and will take you towards Ayer Itam. Make sure to check the bus schedule for the latest timings. Alight at the Ayer Itam stop which is a close distance to Kek Lok Si.
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Walking
Once you get off the bus at Ayer Itam, walk towards Jalan Balik Pulau. You will see signs directing you towards Kek Lok Si. The temple is a bit uphill, so be prepared for a short walk. Follow the road until you see the main entrance of Kek Lok Si on your left.
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Grab (Ride-Hailing Service)
If you prefer a more direct route, you can use Grab, a popular ride-hailing service in Malaysia. Open the Grab app and set your destination to 'Kek Lok Si'. The driver will pick you up from your location in George Town and take you directly to the temple. This is a convenient option if you are traveling with family or have mobility concerns.
Discover more about Kek Lok Si Penang (தூய நிலக் கோயில்/極樂寺)
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Air Itam War Memorial Park
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Monkey Cup Garden (Taman pokok peria kera/கெண்டி பூங்கா)
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Earthquake & Typhoon Pavilion Penang Hill
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Masonic Building Heritage
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Prison Penang Heritage Building
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Buddhist Temple Wat Buppharam
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Anjung Indah Balik Pulau
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Gurney Paragon Mall
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St Joseph's Novitiate Heritage Building
6.0 km
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Pearl Statue (Near Gurney Plaza)
6.1 km
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Penang State Museum
6.1 km
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Persiaran Gurney (Gurney Drive)
6.1 km
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Gurney Drive
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Gurney Tower
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Women's Mosaic Wall (WMW)
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cable Car Kek Lok Si #2
0.1 km
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Kek Lok Si Temple
0.1 km
Experience the spiritual serenity and stunning architecture of Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, nestled in the hills of Penang.
Ayer Itam Wet Market (Pasar Basah Ayer Hitam/அயர் இடாம் சந்தை)
0.7 km
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Penang Hill Hike
1.0 km
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Park Air Itam Dam
1.1 km
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Ayer Itam Dam Lookout Point
1.1 km
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Air Itam Dam
1.1 km
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Air Hitam 山顶景观区
1.2 km
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Jalan Bukit Bendera
1.2 km
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Penang Hill Bukit Bendera Historical Landmark
1.2 km
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Stesen Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang
1.2 km
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Penang hill
1.2 km
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Funicular Service Penang Hill
1.2 km
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Penang Hill Lower Station
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Penang Hill Heritage Trail
1.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Suffolk House Restaurant
3.9 km
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Bón Wine and Dine Bistro & Café (Pork-Free)
4.1 km
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Sri Ananda Bahwan Restaurant
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Annalakshmi Penang - Temple of Fine Arts
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Sin Nam Huat Chicken Rice
5.2 km
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Fam Dining
5.3 km
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Third Culture Dining
5.4 km
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Restaurant Blanc Penang
5.6 km
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Nyonya Su Pei Private Dining / Heritage Artisans
5.9 km
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Din Tai Fung 鼎泰豐 - Gurney Plaza, Penang
6.0 km
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Restaurant First Famous Federal
6.0 km
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Kanada-Ya Penang | No.1 London Truffle Ramen
6.0 km
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Ăn Viet @ Gurney Plaza | Vietnamese Food Restaurant
6.0 km
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IPPUDO Gurney Plaza
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Coco Island Street Food
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Penang Hill Merchandise Store
1.2 km
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Lorong Kulit Flea Market
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Penang Nyonya Culture 槟城娘惹文化店铺
5.4 km
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Atas Store (Jalan Seangtek Georgetown)
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Lovely Lace Gurney Plaza
5.9 km
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Kapten Batik Lifestyle Store at Gurney Paragon
5.9 km
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Hutz Fashion
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DAISO Gurney Plaza (3rd floor)
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AGift With Care Gurney Plaza
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Gift Hauz St. Jo's
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Monki
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Gurney Plaza
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SUB Concept Store
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HONOR GURNEY PLAZA PENANG
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Butik Jade Collection
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tuns Wine Bar
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Artha Indian Kitchen & Bar
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Seventy7 Bar
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Chin Chin Gastropub Penang
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Gravity, Rooftop Bar, Penang
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The Barn Gurney Plaza, Penang
6.0 km
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The Brew House @ Gurney Paragon, Penang
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Tree Bar
6.0 km
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The Mandarin Cocktails Bar
6.0 km
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Dream Garden 777 Pub
6.0 km
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G Pool Bar
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Executive Lounge
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Brussels Beer Cafe, Gurney Paragon
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G Lounge
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G Spot, G Hotel Gurney
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