At the Ban Kah Lan or Snake Temple, in Penang, Malaysia pit vipers ( ular kapak tokong ) are found everywhere, even on the altar. This magnificent construction dates back to 1850 and almost reaches to the fluffy white clouds in the azure sky which is why it is named as Ban Kah Lan (Temple of the Azure Cloud).
Welcoming snakes
It was built in honour of Chor Soo Kong, a magical healer, (also known as Qing Shui Zu Shi) who is believed to have given refuge to snakes. Chor Soo Kong rescued the village of Anxi, a county in southern Fujian province in China from drought by bringing rain as he travelled from place to place!
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The Chinese influence is apparent in the antique 600-pound Manchurian bell that adorns the main hall of the Ban Kah Lan. It rings only twice a month — on the first and the 15th day of every lunar month of the Chinese calendar.
Another case in point is the incense holder, which is in the shape of an urn and has two dragons as the handles. Whirls of sharp, fragrant smoke emanate from this holder. It is placed in front of the entrance with smaller replicas inside.
For the welfare of the snakes, the temple prohibits the burning of joss sticks within the Prayer Pavillion.
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This temple was one of the first Taoist temples in Penang to prohibit the burning of joss sticks within their prayer hall.
The architecture resembles the traditional Southern Chinese style and the three dimensional Chien Nien (a style of porcelain work) sculptures adorn the roof. It is a custom to bring incense sticks, flowers, and eggs, for the snakes.
Five days after Chinese New Year, the birth anniversary of Chor Soo Kong is celebrated. The highlights of the celebration are the Chio-Tian drum performances, snake dance and silk ball throw.