Trevo Malaysia Thean Hou Temple Kuala Lumpur is a well-known Buddhist temple perched on a hill, just outside the city centre. It is known to be one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kuala Lumpur. The temple’s skyline perspective of the city, peculiar architecture, and hanging lanterns are all must-see attractions, especially if you’re in Kuala Lumpur.
Thean Hou Temple is also one of the famous temples in Kuala Lumpur for the majority of the Chinese community to file paperwork for marriage and solemnization. Being one of the biggest temples in Malaysia and South East Asia, here is all the information you need before going to Thean Hou Temple!
Brief History of Thean Hou Temple
Thean Hou Temple, in contrast to many other well-known temples, is a somewhat ‘new’ structure. Its construction began only in 1981, and it was not open to the public until 1989. It was constructed by Malaysia’s Hainanese community which is primarily of Chinese origin and originated on the island of Hainan.
Considering the Hainanese began as fishermen, it’s not shocking why the temple pays tribute to Tian Hou Niang Niang, or the Chinese sea goddess Mazu. The devotees identify her as the Heavenly Mother, and she is known to protect sailors from harm.
Thean Hou Temple, built with designs and architectural components derived from ancient and modern building techniques, is a one-of-a-kind structure that blends cultural elements from Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. You need to witness it from the outside and be in the moment to take all the beauty in.
How to Get to Thean Hou Temple
By Car
This is the most convenient and quickest way for you to go to Thean Hou Temple because it is only a 5 to 10 minute drive from KL Sentral, the hub of all public transit. Furthermore, there are plenty of parking spaces around the temple. You can rent a car with Trevo now that you’re here! Book your car today here, from low-cost to high-performance cars capable of meeting every need!
By Public Transport
KL Sentral is the nearest LRT station to Thean Hou temple, but you’d still have to book a taxi or Grab from there to reach the temple which will cost you around RM5 from KL Sentral.
However, if you wish to add some steps to your daily walking goals, you can also walk for about 20 to 30 minutes from KL Sentral. The last few hundred metres will be a little steep, though.
While you’re walking towards the temple, you will pass through the lovely Little India. So, be prepared to be wowed by a burst of colour and a taste of India’s atmosphere!
Thean Hou Temple Location
The Thean Hou Temple is a six-tiered temple dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu on Robson Hill, south of downtown Kuala Lumpur. As it overlooks Jalan Syed Putra, you will find the city views spectacular.
Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Thean Hou Temple Opening Hours
The Thean Hou Temple’s opening hours are from 8:00am to 10:00pm daily. However, please do take note that these hours may vary on holidays.
The temple’s hours are also generally extended during Chinese festivals such as Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Wesak Day.
What to See in Thean Hou Temple
1. The Guan Yin Statue
The statue of the God of Mercy, Guan Yin, which sits directly next to the entryway, is a must-see when visiting the temple. Guan Yin is a Buddhist bodhisattva who represents compassion. A smaller statue of Guan Yin can also be found to the right of the prayer hall, surrounded by rocks and falling water. You may kneel before the statue and receive a water blessing.
2. The 12 Zodiac Animals Garden
On the left side of the main structure is the Chinese Zodiac garden. You’ll see the sculptures of the 12 Chinese Zodiac animals here.
Zodiac legend has its roots in the Han Dynasty. The 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac is represented by a different animal in which each animal has its own qualities and personality. According to legends, you will inherit the personality of the animal’s representation in the year of your birth.
3. The Tortoise Pond and Wishing Well
Many children enjoy looking at the numerous tortoises in the pond, and Buddhists who cross the Fortune Bridge may receive a blessing from monks in the form of holy water splashed on them for luck.
4. The Fiery Dragon
When one arrives at the temple shrine, one will be astounded by the pagoda roofing and columns with dragon motifs. The panoramic view of the temple set against the skyline of Kuala Lumpur is also ideal for unwinding.
5. The Lanterns at Night
Thean Hou’s temple is illuminated at night and is open until very late. Even better, if you visit during Chinese New Year, the entire temple is decked out in colourful lanterns and puts on a spectacular display.
Ride with TREVO
Trevo has the most diverse car options, with models ranging from low-cost to high-performance cars to meet every requirement. Trevo is the ideal vehicle for every occasion, whether it’s cruising by the beach, a fun ride around town, a road trip, or exploring the magnificent Thean Hou Temple!
Rent a car with TREVO today and enjoy your visit at the Thean Hou Temple!
