Located in Jalan Syed Putra, Kuala Lumpur is the famous Thean Hou Temple. Known for being a temple of great architectural beauty, the Thean Hou Temple also has a reputation for being one of the largest Chinese temples in the Southeast Asian region. Thean Hou Temple is easily accessible from the Ascott Kuala Lumpur, a pleasant serviced residence which offers tranquil and comfortable Kuala Lumpur short stay accommodation.
The Thean Hou Temple is relatively new, being constructed in 1987. Nevertheless it has become one of the most popular religious attractions of Kuala Lumpur. Spread over 1.6 acres of land, this sprawling temple complex is offers piece of mind, spiritual guidance and insights into Chinese culture and beliefs. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Thean Hou, also known as the heavenly mother, who is the protector of the seas and sailors.
The entire temple grounds are beautifully maintained, but the main temple itself is the true attraction of Thean Hou Temple. The temple is constructed following the Chinese style of architecture, with a heavy infusion of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucianism elements and motifs. The flawless rooftops which curl upward at its four corners, the tall pillars inspired by dragons, the ceiling and wall art containing Chinese and Buddhist imagery, and the magnificent statues and sculptures of the temple all culminate to make the Thean Hou Temple an architectural and cultural masterpiece. The main prayer hall has an immaculate shrine of Goddess Thean Hou flanked by the Goddess of Mercy and the Goddess of the Waterfront. A visit to the temple offers you the opportunity to witness this marvelous structure and also to understand the many rituals performed at the temple, as well as their significance.
The Thean Hou Temple is easily accessible and is a great place to visit to discover the Chinese cultural presence in Malaysia. With its many amazing features and revered idols, a visit to this temple is sure to be a unique and intriguing experience.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe.