Snake Temple (Temple of the Azure Cloud)
福興宮
A century-old temple dedicated to the Qingshui Patriarch, where green bamboo pit vipers coil around the altar and tree branches. A rare “snake temple” near Penang Airport.
The Snake Temple, officially known as Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple, was built in 1850 to honor the Qingshui Patriarch. It is located in Bayan Lepas, near the airport. According to legend, venomous snakes came to the temple on their own after it was built. Today, green bamboo pit vipers (mostly Trimeresurus venustus) can still often be seen coiling on the altar, incense burners and tree branches inside. They are said to have become docile from the incense smoke, but they remain venomous, so look but don't touch. A separate snake garden next door charges an admission fee. Entry to the temple is free, making it a convenient half-hour stop on your way to or from the airport.
Opening hours
About 07:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Penang War Museum
- Balik Pulau
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- The TOP Komtar
- The Habitat Penang Hill
- Penang Hill
- Clan Jetties (Chew Jetty)
- Kimberley Street Night Food