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Legend claims that snakes came to the temple by their own accord in the mid-1800s after construction was completed. Locals will also tell you that many of the snakes in question, which are Wagler’s pit vipers and green tree snakes, have been de-venomed. Opening hours: 6am to 7pm daily. In its earliest years it was a simple attap structure, a traditional housing style found in the rural villages of Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The snakes are concentrated in the breeding pen, hanging in moistened … At the time it was built, around 1850, the temple was surrounded by jungle and legend has it that the snakes living there decided to make the temple their home. The farm's owner is a traditional Chinese herpetologist who lends his knowledge to care for the temple snakes. Consider supporting our work by becoming a member for as little as $5 a month. The Penang Snake Temple, also called The Temple of the Azure Cloud (Hock Hin Keong or Cheng Hoon Giam) is a Chinese temple in Bayan Lepas, in … Image of natural, culture, asia - 38822831 Be mindful that the temple is still very much in active use; never photograph or disrupt the worshipers during their prostrations. ... Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 21 contributions +1. The Snake Temple The Snake Temple: Built in 1805 in the memory of the renowned Chinese monk Chor Soo Kong, the Snake Temple is situated in the small town of Bayan Lepas and is famous for the fact that it has pit vipers living on the temple ground. Every weekday we compile our most wondrous stories and deliver them straight to you. If a sign is telling you not to do it, probably wise to heed its advice. The temple is very famous, as it was once a refuge for the venomous pit vipers that lived in the surrounding hills. Follow us on Twitter to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders. Follow. The Snake Temple is situated in Bayan Lepas, Southwest Penang Island, Penang, Malaysia and is perhaps the only temple of its kind in the world. Snake Temple (Hock Hing Keong) may not be the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, but it’s certainly one of the strangest. To learn more or withdraw consent, please visit our cookie policy. Located at Sungai Kluang, on Penang Island, the Snake Temple is also known as Temple of the Azure Cloud or Pure cloud Temple, in honor of Penang’s beautiful skies. But after decades of improvements and several major renovations, it has blossomed into a magnificent structure, featuring intricate detailing on the doors and rafter beams. The temple is located about a 25-minute drive from downtown Penang, so either get a taxi, or catch the free shuttle bus. Image of animal, exotic, nature - 139161049 The Chinese Lunar New Year begins on Feb 10 and marks the start of the Year of the Snake, according to the Chinese zodiac. 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