Snake Temple Penang
A historic Penang temple where sacred incense meets the symbolic presence of pit vipers, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Snake Temple Penang
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Penang temple where sacred incense meets the symbolic presence of pit vipers, offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience.
"It's a historic temple famous for having many snakes, but it has changed a lot."
🐍 Respect the Snakes
Do not touch the snakes. They are venomous and sacred. Observe from a distance.
🚶♀️ Parking Fee
Parking costs RM2, but cars are not supervised. Be mindful of your belongings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Temple Altar
Main temple hall
Witness the unique sight of snakes coexisting with religious iconography and burning incense.
Snakes in Natural Habitat
Temple grounds and trees
Observe various snake species, including pit vipers, in a more natural setting around the temple.
Historical Architecture
Throughout the temple
Appreciate the preserved original architecture and the timeless, mystical ambiance of this 19th-century temple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Snake Expectations
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐍 Respect the Snakes
Do not touch the snakes. They are venomous and sacred. Observe from a distance.
🚶♀️ Parking Fee
Parking costs RM2, but cars are not supervised. Be mindful of your belongings.
📸 Photo Ops
Be aware that some photo opportunities with snakes might feel like a tourist trap.
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 401E from Penang Airport for about RM2 fare directly to the temple.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐍 Respect the Snakes
Do not touch the snakes. They are venomous and sacred. Observe from a distance.
🚶♀️ Parking Fee
Parking costs RM2, but cars are not supervised. Be mindful of your belongings.
📸 Photo Ops
Be aware that some photo opportunities with snakes might feel like a tourist trap.
🚌 Easy Bus Access
Take bus 401E from Penang Airport for about RM2 fare directly to the temple.
🙏 Donation Encouraged
No entry ticket needed, but donations are welcome to support the temple.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Snake Temple a historically significant site with a unique cultural appeal, though many note a decrease in visible snakes compared to the past. While the preserved architecture and legends are appreciated, some feel certain aspects have become overly commercialized, and signage could be improved.
"It’s a historic temple famous for having many snakes. But it has changed a lot as the world evolving. Now no more snakes everywhere, but only on the trees and the quantity is like not even 1/10 of what my parents used to see during their young age. The temple is now a tourist attraction more than a worship place, all incense pot inside the temple were covered, only incense pot outside the temple can be used. The temple is seriously lacking of signboard and notice for people to know where they “hide” the worshipping place and incense burner. The staff/old nun selling incense obviously not the kind of good temples person probably due to many people asking her where to find incense burner but this can actually be avoided if they put proper signage. I see this as a mismanagement problem. The parking is not free, the moment your car came in someone will come to collect RM2, but after that they don’t car and don’t watch your car."
siauhwa tew
"The Penang Snake Temple has been around for as long as I can remember. One of my earliest memories is my dad taking me there on his motorbike all the way from town — back when the journey felt like an adventure through rocky roads and hills, long before the area became the tourist-friendly spot it is today.
Though the place has evolved to accommodate visitors, it’s heartening to see the temple still preserving its original architecture and charm. The walls, the altar, the incense – all feel frozen in time, carrying the same calm and mystique from decades ago.
As for the snakes? Not as many as before, and mostly the same species now. I still remember there used to be this huge, anaconda-like snake that added a bit of thrill to the visit — that’s now just a memory, but one that sticks. Today, it’s more of a quiet symbolic presence than a live zoo.
It’s not about the number of snakes anymore. It’s about the nostalgia, the cultural roots, and the memories tied to simpler times. For me, this place isn’t just a tourist attraction – it’s a time capsule that brings back the scent of temple smoke, the sound of my dad’s old bike, and the feeling of being a wide-eyed kid again."
CZ
"Common Chinese temple located at Bayan Lepas, amid MNC factories. Parking required RM 2 fee. The unique of this temple is that the snake is openly exhibited to visitors. Visitors are able to have close contact with snake without any cage. There is a signboard warn visitor to not touch the snake. All snakes on trees are venomous snakes. No entry ticket is needed. If you wish to donate to this temple, you are encouraged to do so."
LOO BAO JIE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can easily reach the Snake Temple by taking the 401E bus from Penang Airport, which costs around RM2. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Yes, parking is available and costs RM2. However, note that the parking area is not supervised.
Yes, the Snake Temple is located in Bayan Lepas, which is close to Penang International Airport, making it a convenient stop.
From the Snake Temple, you can walk to nearby attractions like the Sri Vishwanather Hindu Temple and the Than Hsiang Temple.
From Georgetown, you can take a bus or taxi. The journey by bus might take longer but is more budget-friendly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entry ticket required to visit the Snake Temple. Donations are encouraged to support the temple.
The temple is generally open daily, but it's advisable to check the specific opening hours before your visit, especially if you plan to go close to closing time.
Visitors are asked to be respectful of the sacred space and the snakes. Do not touch the snakes, as they are venomous.
Yes, donations are welcomed and appreciated to help maintain the temple and its grounds.
Given the presence of snakes, individuals with severe ophidiophobia might find the experience challenging. However, many snakes are in trees or specific areas.
🎫 🐍 Onsite Experience
Historically, yes. However, many visitors report seeing fewer snakes than in the past, with most found on trees. The temple is more symbolic now.
Yes, most of the snakes found at the temple are venomous pit vipers. Visitors are warned not to touch them.
Legends say a Buddhist monk offered refuge to snakes, and they have remained. They are seen as symbolic companions to the deified monk Master Qingshui. 
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of the sacred nature of the site and avoid disturbing the snakes or worshippers.
The temple has a historical and mystical ambiance, with the scent of burning incense and a unique coexistence of religious artifacts and snakes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are eateries nearby. One Instagram reel highlights a dim sum spot with Chinese-themed decor close to the temple.
You can find local Malaysian cuisine and Chinese dishes. Some places offer dim sum and vegetarian meals.
The Snake Temple itself is a place of worship and does not have a restaurant. Dining options are available in the vicinity.
Yes, the Than Hsiang Temple nearby provides vegetarian meals, and some local eateries may also offer vegetarian dishes.
Many visitors enjoy trying local Penang delicacies. A dim sum restaurant near the temple is specifically recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the unique sight of snakes on trees and altars, the temple's architecture, and the burning incense for atmospheric shots.
While generally permitted, be respectful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography that might disturb the snakes or the sanctity of the temple.
Some areas offer photo opportunities with snakes, often pythons. However, this can feel like a tourist trap and may involve a fee.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour lighting, while mornings might provide a less crowded backdrop for your shots.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most shots. If you have a DSLR, consider a versatile lens for both wide shots and details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The temple's historical architecture and the legend behind it can be a good educational point. Consider visiting during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, for a more relaxed experience. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The late afternoon light can create dramatic effects. Be aware that some posed photo sessions with snakes might feel commercial. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Master Qingshui and the Snakes
+1 He was a deified Buddhist monk from the Song dynasty, revered for his miracles and good deeds, particularly in healing the sick. +1 According to legend, Master Qingshui offered refuge to many snakes during his lifetime. +1 After his passing, these snakes are said to have bred and remained within the temple premises, becoming a permanent fixture. +1 This historical connection forms the core of the temple's unique identity and its association with these reptiles.Today, the snakes are believed by some to be reincarnations of Master Qingshui's disciples.
While the number of snakes visible has reportedly decreased over the years, their presence continues to be a significant draw for visitors. This deep-rooted legend transforms the Snake Temple from a mere religious site into a place steeped in folklore and natural wonder. It’s a testament to how history, belief, and nature can intertwine to create an unforgettable destination.
+1Navigating the Temple and Visitor Experience
However, the visitor experience has evolved. Some reviews suggest that the temple has become more of a tourist attraction than a primary place of worship, with incense pots inside the main hall often covered.
Practical advice for visitors includes being mindful of the RM2 parking fee, though the parking area is not supervised.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit