It is the oldest Buddhist temple in Penang, dating back to 1803.
The temple hosts a unique Sima Hall, used for specific religious ordinations, which is decorated with traditional Burmese craftsmanship.
The complex features a large collection of Burmese-style Buddha statues, including one that is specifically noted for its distinct facial features typical of the Mandalay period.
The temple includes a garden area with a pond that historically served as a space for prayer and quiet reflection.
There is an on-site, distinctively Burmese-style pavilion used for community events and religious teachings.
The temple was originally established on land donated by a Burmese woman named Nyonya Betong.
Founded in 1803, the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Penang and the only Burmese temple of its kind outside of Myanmar. The site features a 19th-century architecture characterized by intricate carvings, gilded stupas, and traditional Burmese ornamentation. It houses a prominent Buddha statue cast in 1833 that sits within a dedicated shrine hall. The temple grounds contain a well known as the 'Wishing Well' and a Bodhi tree, both central to local religious practices. The structure serves as an active place of worship for the Burmese community while functioning as a major cultural landmark in the George Town area. Recent updates have maintained the original aesthetic while adding modern security and pedestrian access improvements. The complex serves as the spiritual home for the Burmese diaspora in Malaysia.
The golden-crowned stupa and the vibrant, ornate main gateway facing Lorong Burma.
Visit the back section of the temple grounds to view the more secluded shrines and the peaceful pond area.
Bring a bottle of water, as the temple grounds can become very hot during the midday sun.
Respect the ongoing ceremonies and local devotees by maintaining a quiet volume while moving through the halls.
Do not attempt to take photographs inside the prayer halls if signs explicitly prohibit it; avoid touching or leaning on the gilded statues.
Shoulders and knees must be covered; remove footwear before entering the shrine halls; do not point your feet at Buddha statues.
