Kek Lok Si (極樂寺) is the Chinese-Hokkien name for a Buddhist temple in the Malaysian state of Penang. Covering an area of 120,000 square meters, it is the largest Buddhist temple in the country and a significant religious landmark for tourists from Southeast Asia and Hong Kong. The name Kek Lok Si translates to ‘Temple of Supreme Bliss’, symbolizing Sukhavati (सुखावती), or the ‘Place of Great Bliss,’ often translated as ‘Paradise’ or ‘Pure Land’ in Mahayana Buddhism. The temple is situated on Ayer Itam (亚依淡), which in Malay literally means 'Black Water', yet is referred to as ‘Crane Hill’ as it resembles a flying crane. This name was assigned after the temple's construction, which took place between 1890 and 1930. The temple features a seven-story pagoda, known in Hokkien as Ban Hoat Thah (萬佛塔), translating to ‘Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas.’ This pagoda, commissioned by the Thai King Rama VI, houses 10,000 alabaster and bronze Buddha statues and includes a Buddha statue donated by King Rama IX. It boasts a Chinese-style octagonal base, a middle tier inspired by Thai design, and a Burmese-style spiral dome at the top. These architectural elements from various cultures symbolize the fusion of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. Due to its historical association with the Thai monarchs of the Chakri (จักรี) Dynasty, all bearing the crown title Rama, the pagoda is affectionately known as the ‘Rama Pagoda.’ In 2002, a 30.2-meter-high statue of Kuan Yin (觀音), the Goddess of Mercy, was erected. This focal point for devotees was later covered by an octagonal roof supported by 16 pillars. The temple's buildings are predominantly constructed from granite. The complex includes several prayer halls and pavilions, as well as a large pond in a landscaped natural setting, featuring a charming mini cascading waterfall, which is home to over 500 turtles. 回