Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple

The basics

There’s no charge to visit the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple, which is sometimes known as the Waterfall Temple. The journey begins by climbing 511 steps through a forest alive with monkeys and running water. The summit offers spectacular views across George Town to the ocean, plus spacious grounds with vivid sculptures by Indian artisans, an ornately decorated main prayer hall, subsidiary temples, a koi pond, and an aviary. While the hilltop temple is modern, the 19th-century temple it replaced still stands on the slopes of the hill.

Things to know before you go

• The Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple is a good choice for Hindus and those interested in Hindu culture, as well as for photographers during Thaipusam.
• This is an active place of worship, so modest dress is important. All genders should ensure both legs and arms are covered.
• Avoid eating or drinking on the way up as monkeys can be rapacious.
• The steps mean the temple is unsuitable for travelers who use wheelchairs or have mobility issues.

How to get there

The Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple lies to the northeast of George Town, close to the Penang Botanic Gardens and about a 4-mile (6-kilometer) drive from Komtar. It’s about one mile (1.5-kilometer) on foot from the nearest bus stop, with bus options including the 101 and 103. Many travelers opt to self-drive, take a taxi, or use a rideshare service.

When to get there

The temple opens for prayers in the morning, afternoon, and evenings: standard operating hours are typically 6:45am to 12:30pm, then 4:30pm until 9:15pm. During the Thaipusam festivities—held on a changing date in late January or early February—it sees a vast procession of worshippers.

Celebrating Thaipusam in Penang

Thaipusam is an important annual festival for Tamil Hindus. Devotees ask Lord Murugan for forgiveness for their sins, and take part in a vast procession with the deity in his chariot. Chanting and drum beats fill the air as some worshippers express their penance by piercing their faces with metal spikes or their flesh with hooks; others smash coconuts to represent the destruction of the ego.