Kek Lok Si Temple With Young Kids: Penang

Get ready for a cultural explosion in Penang, Malaysia! We first visited Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the country with 4-month-old Fred and 5-year-old George. Recently returning when both kids were at day care, so we could complete some of the more trickier climbs to appreciate the incredible views from the top. We weren’t sure what to expect, but this dazzling display of architecture, statues, and mosaics quickly stole our hearts (and maybe a few “wows” from George!).

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What is Kek Lok Si Temple?

Imagine a majestic temple perched on a sprawling hill, its colourful rooflines and intricate pillars gleaming in the sun. That’s Kek Lok Si in all its glory! It’s not just a temple; it’s a sprawling complex boasting a rich history dating back to the 1890s. Subsequent generations of worshippers have added their own touches, creating a vibrant tapestry of shrines, gardens, and prayer halls.

It is often referred to as the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and is also an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists from Hong Kong, the Philippines, Singapore, and other countries in Southeast Asia.

This architectural fusion beautifully symbolises the temple’s role as a melting pot of cultures. Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist traditions blend seamlessly with the rich heritage of Chinese culture in Malaysia. It’s a history lesson you can practically touch!

Can You Visit Kek Lok Si Temple with a Baby or Young Kids?

While Kek Lok Si is a fantastic family adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind with little ones in tow. The Malaysian sun can be intense, so pack hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water: or do as the locals do and use an umbrella! There’s limited air conditioning and shade, so a breathable baby carrier is a lifesaver compared to a pram on the uneven terrain.

There are no nappy change facilities and plenty of stairs. to To reach the Hilltop and enjoy the Kuan Yin statue, you have three options walk. Get a taxi to drop you off at the top car park or drive to the top (rented car/scooter), or catch the funicular which is small – you would struggle to fit a pram in so i would suggest leaving the pram at the hotel.

How to Visit Kek Lok Si Temple from George Town

Kek Lok Si Temple is around 8 km from the capital of Penang Island, Georgetown. You cannot walk to the temple, and with the Malaysian heat would you really want to?!

→ Catch the Bus

A local bus will take you to Air Itam, the area where Kek Lok Si Temple is located. The bus costs RM 2per person, and has air conditioning. You must have cash to buy your ticket and children under 2 are free. You can get on either bus #203 or #204 from the Komtar Bus Terminal.

→ Get a Grab

The most common and convenient way to travel nowadays! Depending on city traffic, a taxi ride could take 30-50 minutes and cost between RM20-30. Don’t forget that you can get dropped off at the very top of the complex in your taxi, just be sure to make that clear to your driver if you want to start at the top and work your way down.

Tips for Visiting Kek Lok Si with Kids

I would recommend an early morning visit, open from 8.30am-5.30pm everyday of the week. Aim to be there before 10am for cooler temperatures. And bring a fan or umbrella/hats for sun shade.

During Chinese New Year, Kek Lok Si transforms into a dazzling spectacle! The temple stays open late (11pm), allowing you to explore its beauty adorned with over 200,000 fairy lights and 20,000 traditional Chinese lanterns. Imagine little faces lit up by the magical glow!

The toilets are a bit of a treasure hunt, located on the middle tier near the food stalls (look for the stairs on the right hand side!). They are quite run down and you will need your own tissue. Unfortunately there is not nappy change facilities.

To make the climb more manageable for little legs, consider starting at the top and working your way down. This way, they get rewarded with stunning panoramic views and the awe-inspiring 36.5-meter Kuan Yin statue right off the bat

You will need Cash! Whilst the temple is advertised as “free” to enter, you are expected to pay 2 or 3 ringgit per person to enter the middle level where the seven storey Pagoda is located. Cash for the funicular and for the buggy to take you for the incredible fast ride (less than 2 minutes) to a shop which is the entry way to the Pagoda and the funicular. The structure is sometimes referred to as the Pagoda of Rama VI, after the Thai monarch who laid its foundation stone during a visit to Penang.

If your toddler isn’t a fan of the local cuisine, I would recommend bringing your own snacks. You can buy drinks from one of the many food stalls dotted across the complex.

What to Expect when Visiting Kek Lok Si Temple with Kids

Kek Lok Si Temple is a wonderland for curious young minds. With its vibrant colours, intricate statues, and hidden nooks, it’s like a giant game of cultural discovery. George really enjoyed counting the buddhas…there are over 10,000! Word to the wise: Just keep an eye on those little adventurers, as the stairs can be a bit narrow.

Parts of the Temples were damaged in a fire a couple of years ago and are undergoing reconstruction. The worn look is part of the charm and whilst it doesn’t have the over the top feel of ‘wealth’ that other temples in Asia often showcase, this temples feels genuinely authentic and used.

One of the coolest things about Kek Lok Si is its architectural mashup! The magnificent Pagoda of Rama VI is a prime example. Look closely, and you’ll see the influence of different countries woven into its design. The octagonal base boasts a distinctly Chinese style, while the middle tiers pay homage to Thai influences. Finally, the top tier, crowned in a vibrant yellow, reflects Burmese design.

How Long Should You Spend Visiting Kek Lok Si Temple with Kids?

When we visited with 4 month old Fred and 5 year old George we stayed for 2 hours and then made a hasty retreat for air conditioning. We did not make it the higher tier so vowed to return again (which we did). Arriving at 8.30am we enjoyed an hour of cooler temperatures before the sun began to rise.

The complex is easy to navigate and whilst its spread across several layers, you are left to your own devices in terms of exploring. You won’t find information placards or factual information so your visit can last as long or as short as you like.

When we returned as just adults, we spent 3 hours and that was enough to climb the pagoda, visit the pray temple and marvel at the Goddess of Mercy statue on the top level.

The Takeaway

Kek Lok Si Temple reminded us of the beauty and diversity of cultural experiences. It’s a place that inspires wonder in people of all ages.

This architectural fusion beautifully symbolises the temple’s role as a melting pot of cultures. Mahayana and Theravada Buddhist traditions blend seamlessly with the rich heritage of Chinese culture in Malaysia. It’s a history lesson you can practically touch!