Most Malaysians are squeamish around snakes. Who wouldn’t be? The big ones, like pythons, are scary enough, and the little ones might turn out to have deadly venom. So, you might be surprised to learn of the existence of the Snake Temple in Penang.
This is a popular tourist site located in Bayan Lepas. It is just a 3 to 4-minute drive from the airport, and it takes 25 minutes to get here from downtown George Town. Signs leading to this temple are plentiful.
Snakes, snakes everywhere
Image Credit: RV on Google Review (Left), Alain Leneveu on Google Review (Right)
So, what makes this place famous? Are there really snakes here, or is this temple just dedicated to snakes? Surprisingly, the former is correct. There is a population of snakes which freely inhabit the temple grounds.
Now, before you run off to call the fire department, know that these snakes are safe… somewhat. They are a species called Wagler’s Pit Vipers, and in the wild, they are venomous. However, the temple’s snakes have had their venom removed.
However, for your own safety, do not fool around with the snakes. They might not be venomous anymore, but their fangs will still hurt you badly. For this reason, visitors are cautioned to keep a respectful distance from the reptiles.
Back in the day
Image Credit: Garthman420 on Google Review (Left), Larissa Lica on Google Review (Right)
But why are there so many snakes in a temple? To understand this, it’s necessary to understand the temple’s long history. The Snake Temple has been around since 1850 and was called the “Temple of the Azure Cloud”.
The temple was founded by a Buddhist monk in honour of Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist ascetic from the Song Dynasty. To cut a very long story short, he performed numerous miracles which saved many people’s lives and livelihoods. This is why he is revered by some.
Back in the old days, the temple was surrounded by jungles. Wild snakes were plentiful, and many ended up slithering into the temple grounds. Instead of chasing them away, the monks let them stay out of compassion.
Visiting today
Image Credit: Ja Lee on Google Review (Left), E. T. on Google Review (Right)
Today, visitors to the Snake Temple will find a mix of cool statues, sculptures and even a giant 600-pound bell imported from Qing China. Notably, you are not allowed to burn joss sticks in the prayer hall. It apparently irritates the snakes.
Because of development, the jungles which once surrounded the temple have been greatly depleted. Consequently, there are far fewer snakes visiting the temple these days. However, during religious festivals, the extra offerings often lure the reptiles out in numbers.
When to visit?
Image Credit: Ng Puck Mun on Google Review (Left), Jack Sparrow on Google Review (Right)
For the best photo opportunities, come early in the morning to catch the monks conducting their prayers. The snakes will largely be dormant during the day, as they are nocturnal creatures. Entry to the temple is free, so there’s no reason not to drop by. Aside from phobias, that is.
Snake Temple
Address: 10, Jalan Sultan Azlan Shah, Bandar Bayan Baru, 11900 Bayan Lepas, Pulau Pinang
Visiting Hours: 9 am – 5.30 pm daily
Contact: 04-6437273
You should also check out: Find braised offal, noodles, and handmade dumplings at this KL eatery next to a Buddhist temple
Feature Image Credit: Raymond Hew on Google Review (Left), Igor.kudryavtsev on Google Review (Right)
