Chinese New Year is just a week away, and if you happen to be heading to Penang to visit your relatives, boy, are you in for a treat.
From 19 Jan-21 Feb, Penang’s Kek Lok Si Temple, with over 10,000 lights installed, will be transformed into an ethereal palace looking over the island.
We bet you’ll be tempted to stop and stare at the temple’s glimmering radiance. Here’s a look at their past CNY celebrations so you know what to expect when you’re there.
Do come armed with DSLRs and a fully charged smartphone ’cause one thing’s for sure, there’ll be lots of beautiful shots for the ‘gram.
Like previous years, Kek Lok Si temple – Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple – will be home to over 10,000 light installations that will spark much excitement for the Lunar New Year.
The destination will be jam-packed with LEDs, traditional Chinese lanterns, and bright neon lights.
According to Penang Foodie on Friday (17 Jan), the traditional lanterns will alternate between contrasting red and yellow colours, transforming it into a vibrant complex.
Kek Lok Si Temple, which sits atop the hills of Ayer Itam, is a sight to behold during the day. But here’s news — it looks even better at night.
Don’t forget to go to the top floors of the highest temples to catch this panoramic view of the island.
While we frequently see a lot of city lights, this stunning sight looks straight of Disney’s Mulan animated film, as they celebrate the victory of the war after defeating the Huns.
Visitors can also look forward to spectacular firework displays that will put conventional firecrackers to shame.
After a long night of sightseeing, you can relax with friends and family at this pagoda. We hope you can experience peace and quiet for a nice change of pace.
Devout Buddhists can also visit the stunning temples to pray for prosperity and good fortune.
They say praying on the first day of the New Year is effective. So, dropping by the temple may be the extra boost you need to ace university examinations, have good health, and live a prosperous life with your family.
Traditional Chinese lanterns also light up the gold and red interior of the spiritual complex. The bright lights make the atmosphere brighter and more cheerful than the usual temples we frequent.
The temple also has stunning gardens leading to Buddhist statues, where you can place your lit incense sticks into the pot after prayers are done.
Kek Lok Si temple is a 45-minute cab ride from the Penang International Airport.
The temple opens daily from 8.30am-5.30pm. But if you solely plan to bask in the warmth of its radiant lights, here’s what you need to know.
Kek Lok Si Display of Lights
Address: 1000-L, Tingkat Lembah Ria 1, 11500 Ayer Itam, Pulau Pinang
Date: 19 Jan-21 Feb
Opening Hours: 7pm-12am
Website: Facebook page
Kek Lok Si temple has gorgeous lanterns and temples that are bound to take your breath away. Don’t forget to stop by if you’re planning a trip to Penang soon.
Will you visit soon? Let us know in the comments below.
Featured image from Facebook.
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