Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha
A large Chinese Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Tanjungpinang, with a huge statue of Avalokiteshvara and gilded halls, serving as the spiritual center for the local Chinese community.
Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha lies on the highway heading north from the eastern outskirts of Tanjungpinang and is one of the largest Chinese Buddhist temples in the Riau Islands. Built into a hillside, the complex includes a gate, a main hall, a Maitreya Hall and several side halls. Red pillars, golden tiles and carved beams dominate the design. The most striking feature is the tall standing statue of Avalokiteshvara, and from the steps there are views over the surrounding forest. During Lunar New Year, the Lantern Festival and Guanyin's birthday, the temple is filled with incense and decorations. Entry is free, and donations are welcome. Getting there: a taxi from central Tanjungpinang takes about 20 minutes, and it can be visited on the same trip as the Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Note: dress with shoulders and knees covered, and check the signs before taking photos inside the halls.
Opening hours
Approx. 07:00–18:00 (confirm on site)
Nearby sights
- Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (500 Lohan Temple)
- Sultan Sulaiman Badrul Alamsyah Museum
- Tanjungpinang Old Town
- Senggarang Chinese Village & Temples
- Penyengat Island
- Mount Bintan
- Trikora Beach
- Pulau Beralas Pasir