Wander in Penang: Mosques, Temples, and Churches
Penang’s George Town is renowned for its spiritual diversity, where mosques, temples, and churches stand side by side, along a street aptly named the Street of Harmony.
Sense of Wander: ★★★★★
In Buddhism, the rooster symbolises vigilance and awakening, its crow heralding the dawn on the path to enlightenment.
GEORGE TOWN, Malaysia — Along the Strait of Malacca lies Penang, once a vital hub on the Maritime Silk Road, where ships from China, India, the Middle East, and Europe anchored with cargoes of silk, spices, and ceramics — and alongside them, stories, cultures, and faiths.
Under British rule (1786–1957), Penang’s status as a free port drew a mosaic of migrants: Malay, Chinese, Indian, Arab, and European. George Town, established in 1786 by the British East India Company, became the first British colonial city in Southeast Asia and a gateway for cultural convergence.
Even today, much of its colonial street plan remains intact, recalling a time when places of worship rose not in isolation but in close communion. Faiths nestled side by side, their sanctuaries offering refuge, community, and quiet strength.
On Pitt Street, affectionately known as the Street of Harmony, this coexistence still lives: a mosque for Malay and Indian Muslims, a Buddhist temple for Chinese settlers, a Hindu temple for South Indian Tamils, and churches once built for British missionaries and administrators. These sanctuaries became more than houses of worship — they became homes for strangers who found kinship through shared belief.
The spiritual landscape was not untouched by conflict. During the Japanese occupation (1941–1945), many religious sites were appropriated for military use — some turned into storehouses, barracks, or offices. Ironically, this repurposing spared many from destruction.
Though time has taken its toll, what remains continues to whisper the city’s layered past. Wandering through George Town’s historic heart is like leafing through an old manuscript — one written in many hands, languages, and creeds.
No matter your background or beliefs, George Town has something for everyone. Let us wander through its sanctuaries, each carrying its own story and spirit.
For Muslims: Step into the Oldest Mosque in Penang
The Kapitan Keling Mosque stands as a symbol of Islamic heritage, woven into the multicultural history of George Town.
The Kapitan Keling Mosque, the oldest mosque in George Town, traces its origins to the late 18th century, when sepoys of the East India Company estalibhsed a modest place of worship upon arriving in Penang. What began as a humble structure marked the first chapter in the spiritual life of the Indian Muslim community.
As the community flourished, so too did their aspirations for a larger space. In 1801, their leader, Cauder Mohuddeen — known by the colonial-era title “Kapitan Keling,” given to the head of the community — secured an 18-acre land grant for its expansion. But after his death in 1834, the land lost its protected status. Over time, public roads and homes crept in, and by 1903, the mosque’s grounds had been reduced to just eight acres.
The present-day mosque, completed in 1916, replaced the earlier structure with a design that beautifully blends Islamic and Indian aesthetics. Onion-shaped domes rise gently above its prayer halls, while slender arches and a soaring minaret lend an air of grace and dignity.
Though it stands today as a celebrated cultural and historical landmark, the Kapitan Keling Mosque is foremost a living place of prayer — woven into the daily rhythm of George Town’s Muslim community. On Fridays, the call to Jumu’ah prayer echoes through the streets, drawing worshippers from near and far, reaffirming the mosque’s place as a spiritual anchor in the city. Its prayer hall, which can accomodate up to 1,500 worshippers, continues to shelter generations in devotion.
Wanderer’s tip — Guided tours are available for non-muslim visitors from 11 AM, though the mosque closes for prayers throughout the day. Each tour takes about 15 to 20 minutes, offering insights into both Islam and the mosque’s rich history.
Visit duration — Less than 30 minutes
For Hindus: Among Gods, Offerings, and the Scent of Incense
Located in the heart of George Town’s Little India, the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple illustrates the presence of divine through its myriad statues of Hindu deities.
The Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is one of Penang’s oldest and most cherished Hindu sanctuaries, with its origins tracing back to 1833. Founded by Indian Muslim traders, the temple is devoted to Mariamman — the mother goddess known for her power to shield devotees from illness and misfortune. In Tamil, her name translates to “Mother Mari” or “Mother of the Earth.”
The temple’s architecture follows the traditional Dravidian style, where every detail — from the finely carved deities to the delicate motifs — speaks of devotion. Rising above the entrance is a 23.5-foot-high raja gopuram (gateway tower), added in 1933, adorned with 38 vividly painted statues of Hindu gods and goddesses. At its peak, five golden kalasam (sacred pots) gleam as symbol of divine presence dwelling within the sanctuary.
While photography is restricted, this absence of a lens invites one to be fully present — to absorb the silence, the scent of incense, and the sacred rhythm of devotion. My time here reminds me of my visits to the Sri Veeramakaliamman and Sri Mariamman temples in Singapore. For those drawn to ritual, you may find deeper reflections in “Experience Puja: A Peek into Hindu Worship.”
It’s worth mentioning that the Sri Maha Mariamman Temple is also the starting point for George Town’s Thaipusam procession — an annual festival. Celebrated on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai (usually January or February), the event draws kavadi-carriers and crowds in prayer and celebration, making it a defining spiritual moment in Penang’s calendar.
Wanderer’s tip — Like many Hindu temples, this one closes at noon and reopens in the evening. To witness or take part in a ritual, plan your visit in the early morning when the city is still asleep.
Visit duration — 15 to 20 minutes
For Buddhists: From Reclining Buddhas to Hillside Pagodas
The Kuan Yin Temple in George Town is Penang’s oldest Chinese temple.
Also nestled along the Street of Harmony is the Kuan Yin Temple, dedicated to the Chinese Goddess of Mercy. Rooted in the Indian Buddhist figure Avalokiteshvara — the Bodhisattva of Compassion — Kuan Yin emerged in Chinese tradition as a gentle, feminine embodiment of mercy.
Built in the early 19th century by Hokkien and Cantonese settlers, it is the oldest Chinese temple in Penang. Its courtyards fill with the fragrance of sandalwood and the soft murmur of prayers, especially during Kuan Yin’s birthday and on the eve of Lunar New Year. On those nights, the temple becomes luminous — worshippers arrive bearing joss sticks and offerings, seeking blessings of health, fortune, and peace for the year ahead.
The reclining Buddha statue at Wat Chaya Mangkalaram in George Town is the largest of its kind in Malaysia.
Just a short ride from George Town lie two Buddhist sanctuaries, poised in unspoken dialogue across the road from one another: Wat Chaya Mangkalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple.
Built on land granted by the East India Company in 1845, Wat Chaya Mangkalaram is best known for its magnificent Reclining Buddha — 108 feet long and 23 feet high — serene in posture, eyes half-closed, as though caught in timeless rest. Completed in 1957 by Thai sculptor Iam Amornsathit, it remains the largest of its kind in Malaysia.
Not far from the statue, a soaring 165-foot chedi (pagoda) reaches upward in narrowing tiers — each level symbolising the ascent toward enlightenment. This architectural marvel transports its beholders to the heartland of Theravada Buddhism, inspiring both awe and reverence.
This statue of the standing Buddha, draped in a robe gilt with gold, radiates an aura of solemnity.
Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple, originally known as Nandy Moloh, is the only Burmese Buddhist temple in Malaysia. Founded in 1803, this sanctuary is home to various shrine halls, monks’ quarters, a dining hall, a library, and a 108-foot pagoda bell tower. Exploring a Burmese temple for the first time, I take my time to wander soak in the sacredness of different spaces.
Exploring a Burmese temple for the first time, I take my time to wander and soak in the sacredness of its many spaces.
In the Sasana Vaasa Sima Shrine Hall, a giant gold gilt Buddha stands beneath a carved wooden canopy shaped like a chatra — a royal umbrella offering divine shelter. During my visit, a monk ties a turmeric-hued paritta string around my wrist, a gesture of blessing rooted in centuries-old Theravada tradition. The string, like the kalava once tied for me at Shri Gyan Gopal Ji Temple in Jaipur, remains a reminder of faith received without words.
Each day, Kek Lok Si Temple attracts a large number of pilgrims and visitors, both local and from afar.
Watching over Penang from the hills of Air Itam stands Kek Lok Si Temple — the Temple of Supreme Bliss. Founded in 1890, it remains the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia
Its Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas is perhaps its most iconic feature: a Chinese octagonal base, a Thai spire, and a Burmese crown — symbolising unity across Buddhist traditions. From the summit, sweeping views of George Town unfold for those who make the climb, while within the temple grounds, rare calligraphy from Qing Emperor Guangxu (reigned 1875–1908) and Empress Dowager Cixi — who held power from 1875 to 1908 — adds a touch of imperial refinement to this sanctuary.
Wanderer’s tip — Wat Chaya Mangkalaram and Dhammikarama Burmese Temple are a short Uber ride from the heart of George Town. For Kek Lok Si, it’s recommended to take the cable car to the top and begin your visit as you descend downhill.
Visit duration — Set aside 30 to 60 minutes for Wat Chaya Mangkalaram and Dhammikarama. Allow at least two hours for a full experience of Kek Lok Si.
For Catholics: Explore a Colonial Church Steeped in History
The stained-glass windows inside the Church of the Assumption in George Town, Penang, beautifully illustrate key moments from the life of the Virgin Mary.
The Church of the Assumption is the oldest Roman Catholic church in George Town, Penang. Built in 1860, its roots trace back to the Catholic community — primarily of Portuguese and Eurasian descents — who arrived with Francis Light during the founding of George Town in 1786.
Originally a modest wooden chapel, the church gradually expanded to serve a growing congregation. Its architecture reflects the British Tropical style — an adaptation of British design sensibilities to the rhythms of Southeast Asia’s tropical climate.
Stepping inside, I’m immediately embraced by a hush that feels almost sacred. Worshippers sit in stillness, their heads bowed in silent prayer. My eyes are drawn to the stained-glass windows behind the altar — a vivid palette of red, blue, green, and gold hues. As sunlight filters through, the story of the Virgin Mary unfolds in coloured light: her Assumption into heaven, and the moments of divine grace.
Wanderer’s tip — At the back of the church stands Malaysia’s oldest functioning church pipe organ, crafted in England and installed in 1914. For a truly memorable visit, attend a Sunday Mass — and let yourself be carried away by the chior’s voices and the rich tones of this historic organ.
Visit duration — 15 to 20 minutes.
For Anglicans: Uncover Southeast Asia’s Oldest Anglican Church
Today, St. George’s Church stands proudly as an embodiment of George Town’s colonial heritage.
Nestled in the heart of George Town, Penang, St. George’s Church holds the distinction of being the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia. Founded in 1818 at the cost of 60,000 Spanish dollars, it was established by the British colonial government to serve the growing Christian community, particularly European settlers.
A fine example of Georgian Palladian architecture, the church’s balanced proportions and symmetrical facades speak of harmony and order. Its Doric columns underscores the classical influences, standing as a reminder of Penang’s colonial past amid a city largely shaped by Asian traditions.
During my visit, the church’s doors were closed for renovation, but I found solace in the memorial on its lawn dedicated to Francis Light, the founder of St. George’s Church.
In 2023, the church was raised to pro-cathedral status, further cementing its place among Malaysia’s 50 National Treasures — a testament to its historical and cultural significance.
Wanderer’s tip — The church may be closed for renovation. Check the official website before planning your visit.
Visit duration — 10 to 15 minutes
For Wanderers: Journey into the World of Local Folk Beliefs
At night, the lights of Loo Pun Hong Temple shine just as brightly as the bars and cafes lining Love Lane.
Built in the 1880s, the Loo Pun Hong Temple is home to both an ancestral shrine and an ancient temple. Its name honors Loo Pan (circa 507–444 B.C.) — also known as Lu Ban — the legendary Chinese architect and master carpenter celebrated for his inventions in tools like the square, planer, drill, and shovel.
As Malaysia’s oldest carpenters’ guild, established in the early 1800s, Loo Pun Hong carries forward the legacy of skilled craftsmen of Cantonese descent. More than a place of worship, it stands as a testament to the master-apprentice bond — a pillar of Chinese tradition spanning five millennia.
Tucked away on Love Lane, the temple offers a refuge where heritage weaves into the urban heartbeat of George Town’s hip cafes and bars. The temple also houses rare antiques, including an exquisite set of black rosewood furniture valued at over 10,000 ringgit, awaiting connoisseurs like you to discover!
Wanderer’s tip — Visit the temple both by day and at dusk for a different experience each time.
Visit duration — 10 to 15 minutes.