PenangGetAway #2 Visiting Kek Lok Si, Malaysia's largest Buddhist Temple to offer Visitors greater insights into Buddhist Values and Beliefs
Kek Lok Si (also known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss) is Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple since it was built in 1890, and a pilgrimage site for Buddhist followers throughout Southeast Asia during the 19th Century up till today
It's a fascinating area to explore and situated in the heart of Air Itam with the Temple facing the sea commanding an impressive view, something definitely not be missed when visiting the tropical Island of Penang. The main attraction in the complex is the striking seven-storey Pagoda of Rama VI and the Seven-storey or 36.5-metre tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy displayed alongside 10,000 bronze statues of Buddha
The literal meaning of Kek Lok Si Temple is "Heavenly temple", "Pure Land Temple", "Temple of Supreme Bliss" and the "Temple of Paradise"
Before visiting this temple, I was able to look up some of it's History and turns out that the original 10-acre site of Kek Lok Si was purchased in the year of 1893. The official opening ceremony was conducted on 13 January, 1905, and was initially Funded by the local Chinese people, in particular five wealthy benefactors namely Cheong Fatt Tze, Zhang Yunan, Cheah Choon Seng, Chung Keng Kwee and Tye Kee Yoon.
(The above photo, taken by Mr Ivan Murray from a helicopter in 1975, shows the Kek Lok Si Temple before the recent phase of constructions began)
Divided into 3 areas, the temple grounds comprise the Hill entrance where Travelers can find plenty of souvenirs, food and drinks stall, all situated right next to the turtle liberation pond. A bit higher up is the mid section of the temple are beautifully decorated gardens, Pagoda and the four heavenly kings pavilion while the third area is on top of hill where Kuan Yin Statue that overlooks Ayer Itam
Probably the busiest part of Kek Lok Si temple is the 36.5 meter high bronze statue of Kuan Yin (also Guanyin), the Goddess of Mercy
EXPERIENCE:
Before you get to the Temple, you'll notice a sprawling busy market with lots of tempting food. Surrounded by local markets and cafes you can either ascend by stairs (quite challenging for unfit or older folks) or get your driver to take you to the top and come down by cable tram
To reach the temple's main entrance, you'll have to run the gauntlet of souvenir stalls on the uphill path. You'll also pass a pond packed with turtles and the complex's of vegetarian restaurant. Expect many pathways to explore that lead you around the Temple and get ready to climb stairs to reach the very top of Temple which is carved into the rock face as well as perched atop the slopes of Ayer Itam
Bring your Camera because you don't want to miss out on the great scenery, which is great for taking photos. Embark on a Adventure to explore most areas of this impressive Temple but before doing so make sure to get some Food from the Market below at the entrance of the Temple, also known to have some of the most the decilious local street food cuisine, try to look for Curry Mee
@STEEMITGUIDE TIPS
The best time to visit Kek Lok Si is during the Chinese New Year celebrations, you'll definitely enjoy the sights in this annual lighting display which showcases more than 10,000 lights making it a crowd puller and famous tourist attraction, especially during the Chinese New Year. Devotees from far and near flock to this 125-year-old temple for its annual lighting display as it is believed this act of faith will bring them peace, luck and prosperity
Feel free to pay your respect at the Prayer Halls, enjoy the view from Pagodas, Bell towers and ofcourse enjoy the architectural feat, the statue of Kuan Yin. Best time to visit this Temple is at 5pm, late evening as it is the best time to enjoy a refreshing walk up an inclined Hill in orer to soak in the scenery and enjoy the tranquility, as the sun sets on Penang
(Picture taken by @steemitguide during Annual Festival of Light, a temple that lights up at Night definitely not to be missed when visiting Penang)
Kek Lok Si is known not only for the beauty of its historic buildings, which attract thousands of tourists every year, but also for being a center for Chinese culture and Buddhist Teaching
The dissemination of Buddhism through organized events and special occasions has benefited many devotees and followers of the Buddhist way of life. It is hoped that further dissemination of Buddhist knowledge will be conducted in Kek Lok Si, a center par excellence in Buddhist education, bring about better understanding and practices of Buddhist teachings to help create a more harmonious world
This a unique opportunity that offers Travellers insight into Buddhist values and beliefs, as well as details about the temple and it's services to the public. Enjoy discovering a religious area of worships whether you're a tourist, a practicing Buddhist, a follower of another religion or philosophy, or simply a Steemit visitor by chance, visiting Kek Lok Si Temple is refreshing view on what Buddha preached over 2,600 years ago. Get ready to inspire your Mind and Spirit!
Planning to Visit Penang? Check out my previous Posts
Used to live in Penang, I miss it so much!
Nice post, makes me long to go back to Penang!