FGS Dong Zen Temple, Jenjarom, Selangor
Its grand annual display of lanterns aside, this place of worship holds plenty of travel-worthy virtues.
EVERY Chinese New Year, the sleepy town of Jenjarom in Selangor is lit up with magnificent lanterns at the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Dong Zen Temple. The temple has been running an annual CNY Lantern And Flora Festival for more than a decade and it has become somewhat of a staple on Selangor’s events calendar, thanks to its display of giant light installments.
The free-admission festival attracts nearly a million visitors yearly. But a visit to the venue shouldn’t be just a once-a-year affair, not when the temple itself is a nice year-long attraction in the quaint district of Kuala Langat.
Why you should go
One doesn’t necessarily have to subscribe to the teachings of the Buddha to appreciate the temple and its surrounding. Beautifully cultivated gardens and calming water features lend the space a sense of zen.
The FGS Dong Zen Temple is also home to some sacred relics of the Buddha. Some believe that the relics will bless devotees with blessings and good fortune.
Of course, the Chinese New Year season would be a great time to visit. The lanterns, which take a year to construct by a team of volunteers, would provide plenty of photo opportunity.
What to do
The grounds of the temple are home to many beautiful buildings and decorations.
Take a stroll along Lumbini Garden to appreciate the abundance of colourful flowers. Over at 33 Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Street, take in sculptures that embody various good virtues.
The art gallery, meanwhile, holds exhibitions that showcase local as well as regional artists. For those who enjoy vegetarian cuisine, dine at Waterdrop Teahouse for some delicious vegetarian fare.
The temple also provides classes where participants can learn about wushu, Chinese medicine and arts, among others, for a small fee.
Who will like it
For urban dwellers, the peaceful atmosphere here is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Devotees can also do some meditation at a designated hall or seek blessings at the main shrine. The former houses one of the largest Buddha statues in Selangor.
Apart from that, the properly maintained gardens here will delight flower lovers. The beautiful blooms and unique decorations here would also make for great photography subjects.
Getting there
Tucked away in Jenjarom, the temple is best reached by car. The venue is accessible by the Kesas Highway, South Klang Valley Expressway and North-South Expressway.