Kek Lok Si Temple: A Majestic Buddhist Sanctuary in Penang
Discover the serene beauty and cultural richness of Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist sanctuary in Malaysia, nestled in the lush hills of Penang.
Nestled in the lush hills of Air Itam, Kek Lok Si Temple is a breathtaking Buddhist complex that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Malaysia. As the largest Buddhist temple in the country, it is not only a spiritual haven but also a stunning architectural marvel, drawing both devotees and tourists alike. Visitors can marvel at its intricately designed pagodas, towering statues, and serene gardens, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Penang.
A brief summary to Kek Lok Si Temple
- Kek Lok Si Temple, Jln Balik Pulau, Air Itam, Penang, 11500, MY
- +604-8283317
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and some steep paths to navigate.
- Don’t miss the beautiful views from the top of the pagoda; bring a camera for stunning photographs.
- Explore the local food stalls nearby for a taste of authentic Penang cuisine after your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from George Town, head southwest on Jalan Penang toward Jalan Perak. Continue on Jalan Perak and take the exit toward Jalan Balik Pulau. Follow Jalan Balik Pulau until you reach Kek Lok Si Temple, located at 11500 Air Itam, Penang. Parking is available near the temple, but it can get busy during peak hours. Be prepared to pay a small fee for parking.
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Public Bus
From George Town, take the Rapid Penang bus number 201 or 203 towards Air Itam. The journey will take approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the Air Itam bus station, you can either walk to Kek Lok Si Temple (approximately 15 minutes) or take a local taxi or Grab car for a short ride. Ensure that you have small change for the bus fare, typically around RM 2-3.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Service
For a more convenient option, you can book a taxi or a Grab car from anywhere in Penang directly to Kek Lok Si Temple. Simply enter the address (Kek Lok Si Temple, Jln Balik Pulau, 11500 Air Itam, Penang) into the app. The fare will vary depending on your starting location but expect to pay around RM 20-30 from George Town. Make sure to confirm the fare before the ride.
Discover more about Kek Lok Si Temple
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
4.7 km
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Buddhist Temple Wat Buppharam
5.5 km
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Gurney Paragon Mall
5.8 km
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St Joseph's Novitiate Heritage Building
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Pearl Statue (Near Gurney Plaza)
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Persiaran Gurney (Gurney Drive)
6.0 km
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Penang State Museum
6.0 km
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Anjung Indah Balik Pulau
6.0 km
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Gurney Drive
6.0 km
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Gurney Tower
6.0 km
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GurneyWalk
6.1 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cable Car Kek Lok Si #2
0.1 km
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Kek Lok Si Penang (தூய நிலக் கோயில்/極樂寺)
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, a cultural gem filled with stunning architecture and serene spirituality.
Ayer Itam Wet Market (Pasar Basah Ayer Hitam/அயர் இடாம் சந்தை)
0.5 km
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Penang Hill Hike
0.8 km
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Jalan Bukit Bendera
1.0 km
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Penang Hill Bukit Bendera Historical Landmark
1.0 km
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Stesen Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang
1.1 km
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Penang hill
1.1 km
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Funicular Service Penang Hill
1.1 km
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Penang Hill Lower Station
1.1 km
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Park Air Itam Dam
1.2 km
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Ayer Itam Dam Lookout Point
1.2 km
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Air Itam Dam
1.2 km
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Penang Hill Heritage Trail
1.2 km
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Air Hitam 山顶景观区
1.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Suffolk House Restaurant
3.7 km
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Bón Wine and Dine Bistro & Café (Pork-Free)
4.0 km
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Sri Ananda Bahwan Restaurant
4.1 km
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Annalakshmi Penang - Temple of Fine Arts
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Sin Nam Huat Chicken Rice
5.1 km
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Fam Dining
5.2 km
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Third Culture Dining
5.2 km
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Restaurant Blanc Penang
5.5 km
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Nyonya Su Pei Private Dining / Heritage Artisans
5.8 km
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Din Tai Fung 鼎泰豐 - Gurney Plaza, Penang
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Kanada-Ya Penang | No.1 London Truffle Ramen
5.9 km
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Ăn Viet @ Gurney Plaza | Vietnamese Food Restaurant
5.9 km
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IPPUDO Gurney Plaza
5.9 km
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Restaurant First Famous Federal
5.9 km
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Coco Island Street Food
6.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Penang Hill Merchandise Store
1.0 km
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Lorong Kulit Flea Market
4.6 km
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Penang Nyonya Culture 槟城娘惹文化店铺
5.3 km
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Atas Store (Jalan Seangtek Georgetown)
5.7 km
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Lovely Lace Gurney Plaza
5.8 km
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Kapten Batik Lifestyle Store at Gurney Paragon
5.8 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
5.9 km
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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
5.6 km
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Gravity, Rooftop Bar, Penang
5.7 km
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The Barn Gurney Plaza, Penang
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The Brew House @ Gurney Paragon, Penang
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Tree Bar
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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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The Mandarin Cocktails Bar
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Dream Garden 777 Pub
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