Journal (Travel): Thai Buddhist Temple (Wat Chaiyamangalaram), Penang

Wat Chaiyamangalaram or simply, the Thai Buddhist Temple (or the Reclining Buddha Temple)

Hi Planeteers,

On today’s edition of Travel Journal, we bring you yet to another location in Penang, and this time, the Thai Buddhist Temple, or known in Thai language as Wat Chaiyamangalaram.

However, this temple is also most popularly known throughout the country as the Reclining/ Sleeping Buddha temple.

Main Shrine

The main shrine and the pagoda was built in 1900 after the land that the temple stood upon was granted by W.L. Butterworth, on behalf of Queen Victoria.

Though the temple has long stood since its consecration in 1910, the entire temple have been constantly renovated in order to upgrade its appearance.

The pagoda however have remained as it was.

Pagoda

Based on the records shown, the former Thai Prime Minister, Marshall Tun Thanom Kittikarchorn and family have been the temples largest benefactor since its inception, followed by the Malaysian Government, with the Thai Government and the Thai King’s mother, Princess Srisongwalya in joint third.

Benefactors

The statue of the Reclining Buddha, which located on the main shrine is said to be the 3rd largest of its kind in the world.

The statue was there first, prior to the shrine that protects it.

Inside the main shrine, there are also numerous statues of Buddha and his various disciples adorning the walls and various locations within.

There is even a miniature Reclining Buddha to boot.

Miniature Reclining Buddha

For those who wants the fortune told, they can use the Fortune Teller Vending Machine, just for the fun of it.

Fortune Teller Machine

There is also a table where you can light up a candle, to seek blessings from the Almighty.

Candles

Outside the main shrine, there are several more smaller shrines, each decorated with golden plated rood that glimmered under the shiny sunlight. The first shrine houses a statue of Buddha.

The statue of Buddha inside the Pagoda

The architecture of the shrine is so detailed and very intricate.

Intricate carvings

The second shrine is dedicated to the various forms of the Goddess of Mercy, Kuanyin.

Goddess of Mercy

The third shrine is dedicated to the Four-faced Buddha, which each face representing Relationship, Peace, Wealth and Education respectively.

Mu ti tah (Relationship) – one of the 4 faces of the Four-faced Buddha

The Thai Buddhist Temple is one of the major temples in Penang, and it has been a famous tourist attraction. Located just in front of yet another famous temple — the Burmese Buddhist Temple, it is definitely a must-see.

Visiting Hours

WAT CHAIYAMANGALARAM

17, Lorong Burma, 12050 Penang

Visiting hours: 7.00am t0 6.00pm (Temple Compound)

8.00am to 5.00pm (Main Shrine)

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