Goddess of Mercy Temple (Kuan Yin Teng)

The basics

Chinese sailors founded the temple in 1728 to honor the sea goddess, but worshippers today focus on the Goddess of Mercy, who they believe can help with problems including infertility. Most travelers find the rituals—including fortune-telling sticks and packets of wishes—more interesting than the architecture. There are plenty of options for exploring both the Goddess of Mercy Temple and the Street of Harmony, including bus tours, walking tours, and food and culture tours: Guides can explain the meaning of the various different rituals that take place here.

Things to know before you go

• The Goddess of Mercy Temple is a great choice for people watchers, history buffs, temple collectors, and photographers.
• This is an active place of worship, so dress modestly and be respectful when taking photos.
• The flat, paved courtyard is wheelchair accessible, but there’s a step to access the inner sanctum.

How to get there

The Goddess of Mercy Temple sits in George Town’s Little India, about a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) walk northeast of the Komtar building. Bus options include the 201, 202, 204, 206, and 502, or you can catch a trishaw, ride a taxi, summon a rideshare, or join a tour.

When to get there

The temple is typically open from 7am–7pm seven days a week and is usually a bustle of activity. It’s particularly lively and photogenic during major Chinese festivals, such as Lunar New Year in January or February.

George Town’s Street of Harmony

Many know Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling as the Street of Harmony or Harmony Street; its many places of worship encapsulate George Town’s tradition of tolerance. Besides the Goddess of Mercy Temple, it’s home to the historic Kapitan Keling Mosque, the brilliantly colored Hindu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, and St. George’s Anglican Church, which offers services in four languages.