Long before Kuala Lumpur’s 88-story Petronas Towers became a “trademark” image of Malaysia, the Kek Lok Si Temple on Penang was an iconic symbol of Malaysia. Carved into and atop Air Itam hill in the center of the popular resort island known as “the Pearl of the Orient,” the Monastery of Supreme Bliss is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, popular with tourists as well as a serious place of worship.

Sprawled across 30 acres, it was financed by wealthy Chinese merchants in the late 1800s. For two decades they shipped in Burmese, Chinese and Thai artisans to create the mélange of gilded statues, pagoda spires and colorful towers, all linked by hundreds of steps — now lined with souvenir peddlers.

Passing a pond of tortoises, which represent eternity, visitors ascend to the seven-tiered Million Buddhas Precious Pagoda which conjoins three different architectural styles: Middle “laughing Buddha” levels with Thai arches perch on a Chinese base representing the goddess of mercy, all topped by a golden Burmese stupa.

While its over-the-top style may not appeal to everyone, the temple is considered an important national symbol and an essential site to include while touring the pristine beaches, tropical parks and charming George Town capital of one of Malaysia’s principal vacation spots.