Kek Lok Si Temple

The Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in South-East Asia and is situated on a hill in Penang. Kek Lok Si translates to Temple of Supreme Bliss.

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The construction of the temple began in 1893, but what is particularly striking about this temple is that construction has continued throughout the years right to today. Some of the most memorable features (such as the giant bronze statue of Kuan Yin below) are very recent additions.

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The temple rambles down over the hillside and incorporates prayer halls, pagodas, bell towers, monasteries and landscaped gardens.

This huge bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin  in 30.2m tall. It was completed in 2002 but I think the shelter over the statue is more recent.

IMG_9209Outside the main prayer hall, you can pay RM1 to select a wish ribbon and hang it on the prayer wish trees.

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In Chinese astrology, The Poolboy and I are both monkeys.

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An incline lift takes you between the levels of the Temple.

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Of course, there is the obligatory gift shop that one must exit through.

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Outside the prayer halls, were tables with quite an array of these candles.

In 1930, the seven storey main pagoda of the temple (Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas) was completed. This pagoda is built on a traditional Chinese octagonal base, but also incorporates elements of Thai  and  Burmese design; reflecting the temple’s inclusion of various forms of Buddhism .

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Of course, the Fairlie Entourage cannot resist climbing the stairs of any religious building. This was no exception. 32 degrees and 90 per cent humidity did make it a bit of a challenge.

Buddhas line the walls inside the pagoda…

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…in a variety of styles. We didn’t count them, but I’m assuming that’s why it’s known as the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas.

The view from the top was worth the climb. This is looking back downhill over the temple complex.

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Apparently, for the 30 days following Chinese New Year each year, Kek Lok Si has an annual Display of Lights event where the entire temple complex is lit up with lanterns, candles and lights. Photos of it look spectacular and it would be worth a visit at that time of year to see it.

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