Thean Hou Temple in KL
Beyond slipping into elegant cheongsams and paying visits to relatives to collect angpaus, adorning homes and streets with glowing red lanterns is an unmissable tradition during Chinese New Year.
This year, Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur has taken this age-old custom to dazzling heights with a spectacular display of radiant red lanterns. Illuminating the night sky till 12th February, the Chinese New Year light-up is a must-visit for those seeking festive magic.
A six-tiered Chinese temple in KL
In Taman Persiaran Desa, there lies one of Southeast Asia’s most historic and grand Chinese temples – Thean Hou Temple. Constructed in the ’80s, the six-tiered architectural wonder seamlessly blends traditional Chinese design with modern elegance.
Rich in history and spirituality, the temple honours Mazu, the Buddhist goddess revered as the guardian of the sea by the Hainanese community. Known for protecting fishermen and seafarers, a striking statue of Mazu graces the temple’s entrance, welcoming visitors with her benevolent presence.
But Mazu is not the only divine figure worshipped here. Patrons also pay homage to other deities, including Guan Yin, the beloved Goddess of Mercy, and Thean Hou, the Goddess of the Waterfront, who takes pride of place at the heart of the temple.
The main temple, located on the second floor, is a feast for the eyes with its brilliant displays of red lanterns glowing against prosperity-red pillars, intricate dragon motifs, and pagoda-style rooftops. Every detail whispers tales of devotion and artistic mastery, especially during the Chinese New Year celebrations.
At the main altar, statues of Buddha and other deities are beautifully showcased. Here, visitors can burn traditional fortune sticks or say a prayer in quiet contemplation to their revered deity.
Outside, at the main altar, visitors can light joss sticks as a gesture of reverence and also light lotus-shaped candles, priced at RM10 each—a charming way to set intentions and wishes for the Year of the Snake.
A lantern wonderland lighting up the night
Prepare to be utterly mesmerised by the dazzling sight of thousands of glowing red lanterns at this iconic temple.
By night, the display casts a spellbinding glow, but don’t underestimate its daytime charm – each lantern perfectly complements the intricate rooftops, bathing the temple in a warm, welcoming light.
Another treat for the festive celebration is a delightful oversized snake-and-ladder board complete with giant dice, for the little ones to play during their visit.
Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, the temple has you covered with opening hours as early as 6am on selected days, and the lanterns stay illuminated well past midnight, making it easy to plan a visit that fits your schedule.
- 28th January: 8am-1am
- 29th-30th January: 6am-1am
- 31st January-5th February: 7am-12am
- 6th-11th February: 7am-11pm
- 12th February: 7am-12am
Brilliant Chineses New Year light-up at Thean Hou Temple in KL
Thean Hou Temple is far more than a place of worship – it’s a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and community.
So gather your loved ones and make your way here and don’t forget to pause under the warm glow of the red lanterns and make a wish – it just might come true.
Address: 65, Persiaran Endah, Taman Persiaran Desa, 50460, Kuala Lumpur
Dates: Now till 12th February 2025
Contact: 03-2274 7088 | Thean Hou temple Instagram
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Cover image adapted from: TheSmartLocal Malaysia
Photography by Yusintha.