MalaysiaLangkawi Free All Year Mostly Outdoor
Religious

Wat Tham Kisap

A temple with a towering golden Buddha statue would be a major tourist draw in most Southeast Asian cities. But in Langkawi, Wat Tham Kisap and its ornate statues are hidden down a quiet backroad, unbeknownst to many locals.

The intricate and brightly colored temple complex is built into a limestone cliff, with a small cave located at the back the main prayer hall. Outside are several statues depicting Buddha and animals like cows, cobras and elephants. Inside the main hall are more statues of Buddha, animals, and a lifelike statue of a Thai monk that will make you look twice.

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Price

Free

Time Spent

15-45minutes

Fitness level: Easy

Hours

8am-5pm7 days

Look Around

5-headed dragon leading to upper level temple5-headed dragon leading to upper level temple
Smaller buildingSmaller building
Upper templeUpper temple
Temple buildings
Life-like monk statueLife-like monk statue
Black and golden monk statueBlack and golden monk statue
Indoor monk statues
Large Buddha statue
Standing Buddha statueStanding Buddha statue
Monk statueMonk statue
Another monk statueAnother monk statue
Outdoor Buddha and monk statues
Elephant statue... with a red trunkElephant statue... with a red trunk
Life-size elephant statue near entranceLife-size elephant statue near entrance
Animal statues near entranceAnimal statues near entrance
Outdoor animal statues

Who Will Like Wat Tham Kisap

Culture Buff

Walk around the traditional Thai Buddhist temple to see a series of religious-themed statues. The main attraction is a large seated Buddha statue located on the upper level.

Photography Whiz

Capture the intricate details of the 5-headed-dragon that guards the staircase to the gold Buddha statue on the upper floor.

Insider Tips For Wat Tham Kisap

  • The gate to the upper-level housing the Buddha statue may be closed. Ask staff if it's okay to go up for a closer look - they'll probably say yes.
  • Some stray dogs live within the complex but don't be afraid of them. Just ignore them and they'll ignore you too.
  • Modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees is not mandated but still dress respectfully as this is a religious site.
  • This temple has been a work-in-progress for a number of years, so keep an eye out for construction materials.
Friendly local dogFriendly local dog
Shop to purchase offeringsShop to purchase offerings
Local dog and offering shop

Where Is It

Jalan Ayer Hangat, Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia, 07000

Open map...

How To Get There

Car

Free • Free parking along gravel area in front of the temple.

Driving directions... Map for car...

Motorbike

Free parking for scooters and motorbikes in front of the temple.

Rideshare

Ask if your driver will wait for you to return as it may be tricky to find a return ride due to the remote location being fairly unknown.

Direction signage at end of access roadDirection signage at end of access road
Access road, looking back toward main roadAccess road, looking back toward main road
Hanuman statue from opposite Hindu temple entranceHanuman statue from opposite Hindu temple entrance
Signage and Hanuman statue on access road

What To Bring

Do:
  • Coins or small notes in local currency for donations.
  • Shoes easy to take on and off.
  • Water bottle.

Tech & Photography

Wifi

Public wifi access: None

Photography

Photography allowed: Yesflash is ok

Tripod allowed: Yes

Selfie sticks allowed: Yes

Best time to shoot: Late Morning

Tips: Ask for permission before photographing any locals working or praying at the temple. For a better view of the larger outdoor temple (next to the gold Buddha), try walking to the upper podium, however use caution as it may be a little slippery and the surface is slightly uneven.

Drones

Drones allowed: Yes (subject to national/regional rules)

Bags

Backpacks allowed: Yes

Secured bag lockers available: No

Food & Drink

The closest restaurants and food stands are located in Kuah Town, a 7-minute drive south.

Backstory

Wat Tham Kisap is a Thai Buddhist temple built into a limestone cliff. The temple is frequently under construction but remains open to visitors. Another Buddhist temple, Wat Koh Wanararm, which teaches Chinese, Thai, and Tibetan Buddhism is located 5 minutes' drive south.

A modest Hindu temple is located at the southern end of the cliff, marked by the statue of monkey god, Hanuman, which you can't miss as you drive into the parking lot.

Etiquette

Do:
  • Remove shoes before entering buildings.
  • Leave a small donation to aid maintenance and repair works.
Don't:
  • Touch statues without permission.

Scorecard

Best Parts:
  • Quiet atmosphere due to being largely undiscovered by tourists.
  • Large Buddha statue on upper level.
  • Variety of ornate statues and sculptures.
Could Be Better:
  • Facilities often under construction.
My itinerary Save View

Oh, you're so close

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What's Nearby In Langkawi

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