Wat Chaiyamangkalaram Reclining Buddha

In 1845, Queen Victoria gave the land in Penang for a Wat Chaiyamangkalaram Thai temple to be constructed. Ever since, until this day, the temple fascinates visitors and devotees locally as well as globally. The temple has an exceptional blend of Thai, Burmese, and Chinese architectural designs.

The Reclining Buddha is a masterpiece and a sight to behold. It is approximately 33 meters in length and is remarkably plated with gold. The Reclining Buddha is the 14th largest reclining Buddha in the world.

When visitors enter the compound of the temple, they will be greeted by two mythical dragon-headed ‘guards’ standing majestically at the entrance. The temple grounds possess many shrines with vibrant coloured statues of Devas. It also has many statues of mythical creatures which embody the Buddhism mythology. The Reclining Buddha signifies Buddha at his death. It was told that the Buddha knew that his time was coming, thus he told his disciples to prepare a couch in a grove.

Image by Rajeev Rajagopalan.

Opening Hours

Monday – Sunday: 6am – 5:30pm.

Admission

FREE.

Location

17, Lorong Burma,
Pulau Tikus,
10250 George Town,
Penang.

View on map.

Hear From Others

It is often called the Temple of the Reclining Buddha of Penang, on account of its magnificent reclining Buddha image housed in the vihara.

Timothy Tye
Penang TravelTips

With a peaceful and smiling face, this Buddha lies on his right side with his head resting in the palm of his right hand.

Wonderful Malaysia

A peek behind the temple seemed to bring the visitor to another land as therein lies a Thai cemetery and a small Thai village.

Audrey Lim
Things Asian

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