Penang, Malaysia - Wat Chayamangkalaram

Reclining Buddha temple (Wat Chayamangkalaram)

This Thai temple was built in 1845 by a Buddhist monk who came from Thailand. Inside this temple lies a beautiful statue of Buddha in a reclining position. The Buddha lies on the side with his head resting on his right palm, with head pointing northwards, signifying his approach into nirvana. Behind and beneath the statue are urns containing niches where ashes of devotees are kept.

Opening Hours: 6.00am till 5.30pm
Admission: Free
Address: Lorong Burma, Pulau Tikus.

The morning light coming through the windows gives the statue a bright glow.




At the back of the statue are the niches of devotees.


Video of the Wat Chayamangkalaram temple

There are many statues of Buddha in different poses inside the temple.
The statue sitting on the left looks like a real guy and that kinda creeps me out.


Devotees praying. Remember to take off your shoes at the entrance. There is a signboard at the entrance that warns you against shoe thieves. I would suggest, if you're wearing expensive shoes, to put your shoes into a plastic bag and just carry it with you. Then you won't have to risk the chance of walking home barefooted.
These two magnificent warriors stand guard at the entrance to the temple.

Beauty and the beast
There are lots of interesting sculptures outside the temple, including this multi-headed dragon.


The best time is to visit in the morning, when its less crowded.




This is the Burmese Buddhist temple across Wat Chayamangkalaram. Entrance is also free. There are many statues of mythical and fantasy creatures inside. A very colorful place indeed.
Many beautiful sculptures inside this temple.

I think this statue is very pretty.
So is she...
(Please note: I didn't take the picture below. It is actually a poster that you can buy. Just click on it to purchase it. But still, she's pretty isn't she?)

Below is a map showing directions to Wat Chayamangkalaram. It is located at the junction of Jalan Kelawei and Lorong Burma at the left side of the map. I stayed the evergreen Laurel hotel (at the right side of the map), so its just a short walking distance to the temple.