Overview
Snake Temple (Hock Ann See Temple), founded in 1850, is a uniquely Penang Taoist temple famous for the live pit vipers (mostly Wagler's pit vipers) that freely rest among its altars. According to legend, snakes from the surrounding jungle began arriving voluntarily after the temple was built, and incense smoke is believed to calm them. Inside the main hall, you'll typically find 5-10 snakes draped on the altars and around incense burners, viewable up close. The snake garden out back (separate entry, about MYR 5) lets visitors take photos with snakes in safe enclosures. Very close to Penang International Airport — perfect for a quick stop before or after your flight. Free (temple); snake garden about MYR 5. About 5 minutes by Grab from Penang International Airport or 25 minutes from George Town.
Opening Hours
Daily 06:00-19:00
Travel Tips
Its airport-adjacent location makes it perfect for a quick layover visit. Don't get too close to the loose snakes (rare bite risk). Snake-handling photo experiences in the garden cost about MYR 30.
Hotels near Snake Temple (Hock Ann See Temple)
Hotels and guesthouses in Penang, Bayan Lepas, Penang
Other attractions in Penang
George Town Old Quarter
A UNESCO World Heritage Site where multiple cultures blend, famous for street art and the Clan Jetties.
Penang Hill
An 833 m hilltop reached by funicular railway, offering sweeping views of George Town and the sea.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temple, featuring a seven-tier pagoda and a towering Guanyin statue.
Ernest Zacharevic Street Murals
Interactive street murals by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic that redefined Penang in 2012.
Clan Jetties (Penang Stilt Houses)
Century-old stilt-house villages built over the sea by 19th-century Chinese immigrant clans — Chew Jetty is the most famous.
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Penang's main north-coast beach resort area, lively with a nightly beach bazaar and water sports.