Hindu Temples in Malaysia: Cultural and Spiritual Insights

Malaysia is renowned for its cultural diversity, and its Hindu temples are among the country’s most captivating spiritual attractions. For your 2025 tour, visiting these temples in Malaysia offers a glimpse into intricate architecture, rich history, and vibrant religious traditions. From the iconic Batu Caves to the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, there’s a wealth of spiritual experiences waiting to be explored.

The environment at these temples is deeply serene and reflective, making them essential stops for anyone seeking spiritual enrichment. This guide highlights nine famous temples in Malaysia, showcasing their unique charm, historical significance, and cultural importance. Whether you’re planning to see the biggest temple in Malaysia or the best temple in Malaysia for its architecture, these sacred sites are a must-visit. Discover the most remarkable temples to visit in Malaysia and immerse yourself in the country’s rich spiritual heritage.

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1. Batu Caves Temple 

This Batu Caves temple in Malaysia is popular amongst the South Indian Hindus. It represents a series of limestone caves with a vibrant Hindu temple inside. Locals call it the Kartik Swami Murugan temple. Lord Murugan is worshipped here. 

• Address :

Batu Caves, Gombak, Selangor, Malaysia 

• Timings: 

7 am to 9 pm 

• Events: 

Thaipusam festival

• How to Reach:

Taxis and buses are available to reach Batu Caves temple from any major location within Malaysia. Else, the Central KL has a KTM train to Batu Caves. 

Features:

• Limestone cave series 
• Murugan statue measuring 43 m high 
• 272 colorful steps 
• 400-million-years old temple 

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2. Sri Mahamariamman Temple 

Next on the list of best temples in Malaysia is the Sri Mahamariamman Temple, located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. This famous Hindu temple in Malaysia draws numerous worshippers from Chinatown and beyond. Established in 1873, the temple is rich in history, initially serving as a private shrine before evolving into the prominent religious site it is today. Visitors can admire its intricate gopuram (tower), vibrant sculptures, and detailed carvings that reflect traditional Dravidian architecture, making it one of the must-visit temples in Malaysia.

• Address :

163, Jalan Tun H S Lee, City Centre, 50000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Timings: 

6:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm 

• Events:

No events

• How to Reach:

You can take a cab, train, or bus from Kuala Lumpur to Sri Mahamariamman temple. A Jalan Tun H S Lee metro is also available to take you to the temple. There are buses as well taking the same route as your cab. 

Features:

• South Indian architecture style 
• Impressive history 
• 77 m tall Gopuram 
• 350 kg silver-made chariot 
• Arulmigu Sri Maha Mariamman Temple Queen Street, Penang, George Town, Malaysia

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3. Sri Ramar Temple 

The third best temple in Malaysia on our list is Sri Ramar temple. It has a 200-year-old history in its archives. 

• Address :

York Close 10460, Penang Malaysia

• Timings: 

6:00 am to 12:00 pm and 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm 

• Events:

No event 

• How to Reach:

Buses and ferry rides take you to the Sri Ramar Temple. Alternatively, you can take Rapid Penang buses from the Weld Quay Ferry and get down after York Road junction. 

Features:

• 200-year-old history
• Clay image of Lord Sri Rama within its sanctorum

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4. Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

One of the topmost religious places in Malaysia is the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple. It is popular as Waterfall Hilltop Temple amongst the locals. The temple features a 7-storey building and 21.6 m tall Gopuram. It is regarded as the tallest place of worship in Malaysia. 

• Address :

17, Jalan Kebun Bunga, Pulau Tikus, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

• Timings:

6:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm 

• Events:

No event

• How to Reach:

You can board a rapid Penang bus from the Weld Quay, which will drop you off at the Botanical Garden. The Botanical Garden is the bus stop closest to the temple. 

Features:

• 500 steps 
• Chola and Pallave dynasty’s influence in the temple architecture 
• Designed by South Indian artisans 
• 8.23 m feet tall Lord Shiva statue 
• Six pillars symbolizing six major Murugan temples 

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5. Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple

Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple in Malaysia is located at Jalan Dato. This temple offers a spiritual refuge to the Komtar Tower. The temple’s history dates back 106 years, and it cherishes attractive architecture. 

• Address :

Jalan Perkasa Satu, Taman Maluri, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Timings:

7:30 am to 12:00 pm and 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm 

• Events:

Pournami and Chitra Pournami

• How to Reach:

Board a train to the Komtar bus terminal and walk down to Jolan Penang until you arrive at Junction Macalister. Then, walk down to Jalan Dato Keramat. From there, the temple is within walking distance. 

Features:

• Sculptures of Shiva Lingam, Hanuman, Gayathri Amma, and Sri Vishwakarma 

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6. Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple

The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, located in Johor, stands out as one of the most unique temples to visit in Malaysia. Entirely constructed from glass, this famous Hindu temple in Malaysia dazzles visitors with its sparkling architecture and intricate interior design. Beyond its visual appeal, the temple offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and devotees alike. 

• Address :

Jalan Tun Abdul Razak 1/1, Wadihana, 80300 Johor Bahru

• Timings:

10:00 am to 10:00 pm 

• Events:

No festival of its own 

• How to Reach:

The temple is within walking distance of the Johor Bahru city center. The easiest and fastest way to reach the temple from Johor Bahru is to hire a cab. Alternatively, there are public shuttle bus facilities available. 

Features:

• Gem crystal fixtures 
• 300,000 glass mosaics of yellow, red, green, purple, and white 
• Centrepiece is a Lord Shiva statue with a lotus 
• Roof with 10 gold-finished sculptures 

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7. Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple

Sri Poyatha Moorthi Temple is a famous temple in Malaysia. The temple is situated in the state of Malacca. It is one of Southeast Asia’s few oldest operational temples dedicated to Hindu Chitty. The architecture is quite simple, seeking the attention of devotees from all over the world. 

• Address :

No: 5 to 11, Jalan Tukang Emas, 75200, Melaka, Malaysia

• Timings:

11:30 am to 6:00 pm 

• Events:

Pongal 

Diwali 

Procession of religious chariots called Latham 

• How to Reach:

Taxis and buses can take you to the temple from any key location in Malaysia. 

Features:

• Inner Sanctum Sanctorum or the Garbhagriha with Lord Ganesha shrine 
• Colorful walls with intricate detailing 
• Three-century-old wooden rathams 

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8. Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam 

Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam, established in 1985, is recognized as one of the best temples in Malaysia. Originally known as the Mariamman Temple, it gained prominence with the Sultan’s support and continues to be a spiritual hub for devotees. Visitors should note that this Hindu temple in Malaysia observes a strict dress code, requiring modest attire that covers the shoulders, reflecting the temple’s traditional values and reverence.

• Address :

1a, Jalan Ungku Puan, Bandar Johor Bahru, 80000 Johor Bahru, Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia

• Timings:

7:00 am to 10:00 pm 

• Events:

No event

• How to Reach:

There are buses and taxis to take you to the temple. Alternatively, you can board the BET6 from JB Railway Sentral.

Features:

• Dravidian-style temple architecture 
• 75-foot-tall Rajagopuram
• Five-tiered structure featuring five gold-plated kalasam. 

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9. Kuil Sri Subramaniar Thuropathai Amman Alaya Paripalana Sabai 

Kuil Sri Subramaniar Thuropathai Amman Alaya Paripalana Sabai, known for its impressive four Gopurams, ranks among the best temples in Malaysia. Devotees primarily worship Draupadi Amman and Thandayuthapani here, making it a significant

• Address :

Jalan Gajah Berang, Kampong Tujuh, 75200 Melaka, Malaysia

• Timings:

7:30 am to 10:00 am and 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm 

• Events:

Shivaratri 

• How to Reach:

There are cabs, taxis, and buses to take you to the Kuil Sri Subramaniar Thuropathai Amman Alaya Paripalana Sabai temple.

Features:

• Dravidian-style temple architecture 
• Beautiful sculptures and paintings depicting holy scenes such as Lord Ganesha’s wedding ceremony, Lord Shiva’s Rudra dance, etc. 
• Dwajasthambam 

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FAQs

When is the best time to visit temples in Malaysia?

Your weather and festival preferences determine what time is best for you to explore the temples in Malaysia. 

March to May – shoulder season; good weather; fewer visitors

September to October – good weather and affordable pricing

What makes the Hindu temple unique?

Cultural influence, history, and architecture are what make the Hindu temples in Malaysia unique and worthy of visiting. 

Does the temple allow photography?

No, none of the temples will allow you to take internal photographs. This rule is to respect religious practices, maintain the sanctity of the space, and ensure that one can pray without disturbance.

Do Hindu temples have a dress code?

There isn’t a strict dress code in Hindu temples in Malaysia, but visitors are expected to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

What are some of the famous temples in Malaysia?

Some of the famous temples in Malaysia include Kuil Sri Subramaniar Thuropathai Amman Alaya Paripalana Sabai, Arulmigu Rajamariamman Devasthanam, Sri Kamatchi Amman Temple, Batu Caves, and Sri Mahamariamman Temple.

What are some free things to do near the temples in Malaysia?

Visitors can explore nearby botanical gardens, stroll through local markets, take photos of the surroundings, or enjoy hiking trails all free activities near the temples to visit in Malaysia.

How many days are enough to explore the famous temples in Malaysia?

A 10-day itinerary is sufficient to explore the most popular temples in Malaysia and soak in their spiritual and architectural beauty.

What are some popular temples in Malaysia that are near transportation hubs?

Temples conveniently located near transportation hubs include Batu Caves, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, and Sri Mariamman Temple, making them easily accessible for tourists.