 Gurney Drive is most well known for its happening eating places at night. Perhaps then, not many people know that two of the most beautiful temples are located in the vicinity.
The two Burmese temples located opposite each other on Lorong Burmah, the Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram and the Dharmikarama, are deemed worthy of a visit if only to admire the striking beauty of its architecture.
Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram
 A Thai temple built in 1845, Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram houses the infamous giant Reclining Buddha statue. Measuring 33 metres long, the statue is said to be the third largest of its kind. It signifies Buddha’s total detachment from worldly matters during the last days of his life, and the statue is said to be Buddha’s final resting position before he dies. Besides the enchanting reclining Buddha, you can also find smaller Buddha statues in varying guises and positions around the temple, as well as those of Thai deities. There are also colourful murals depicting Buddha’s life story.
Address: Lorong Burmah (off Jalan Burmah)
Getting here: You can take Rapid Penang buses No. U101, U102, U103, U104 & U105 from George Town
Opening Hours: Daily, 06:00 – 17:30
Dharmikarama Burmese Temple
 Built in 1803, Dharmikarama Burmese Temple is Penang’s first Burmese temple. This striking temple with its golden rooftops comprises pagodas, a well, Shrine Hall and Sime Hall, in which a giant Lord Buddha’s statue sits. Also within the temple grounds are a huge Boddhi tree and a wishing pond. A pair of statues called the Panca Rupa – deemed the Guardian Protectors of the World - guards the temple.
Address: 24 Lorong Burmah (off Jalan Burma, right opposite Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram temple)
Getting here: You can take Rapid Penang buses No. U101, U102, U103, U104 & U105 from George Town
Opening hours: Daily, 05:00 – 18:00
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