The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple, located in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, is a remarkable and unique Hindu temple known for its stunning glass architecture. This temple is one of the few glass temples in the world, and it attracts thousands of visitors annually, both religious pilgrims and tourists alike. The temple’s intricate glasswork, combined with the rich cultural and religious significance, makes it one of Johor Bahru’s most popular landmarks.
The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is located in the heart of Johor Bahru, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. If you are coming from Singapore, the most convenient way to reach the temple is to cross the Johor-Singapore Causeway, followed by a short drive to the temple. The temple is around 10 to 15 minutes away from the Johor Bahru city center by car, depending on traffic.
For public transport, you can take a bus to the Johor Bahru Sentral station and then hire a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Grab. The temple is located along Jalan Segget, making it relatively easy to find with the help of a navigation app.
If you're in Johor Bahru, it’s highly recommended to take a taxi or Grab, as the temple is in a busy area, and finding parking nearby can sometimes be a challenge. However, if you're staying in a hotel nearby, walking to the temple is also a convenient option.
Johor Bahru experiences a tropical climate, with warm temperatures and humidity year-round. The temperature typically ranges from 25°C to 32°C, making it warm throughout the year. The weather can be quite humid, especially in the afternoon, so it’s advisable to wear light and breathable clothing when visiting the temple.
Desiring to avoid the rain? Visit the temple during the dry months from March to October. While it can rain during other months, the showers are typically brief. Be sure to bring an umbrella or a raincoat if you're visiting during the wet season, which runs from November to February.
The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is open to visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. As it is a religious temple, it is important to note that the temple might be closed during prayer times, especially during the five daily prayers of the Hindu faith. For tourists, the best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded, and you can fully appreciate the stunning glass details in the temple's design.
If you are visiting during the evening, the temple is beautifully illuminated, offering a completely different and captivating experience compared to daytime visits.
The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is most famous for its intricate glasswork that adorns the entire temple. It is believed to be the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, with the structure’s walls, floors, ceilings, and even the statues of deities, covered in thousands of pieces of glass. The temple was designed and built by a dedicated Hindu devotee who wanted to create a place of worship that was as beautiful and unique as possible.
Another reason for its fame is its spiritual significance. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Rajakaliamman, a powerful deity in the Hindu pantheon, and is visited by devotees who seek her blessings for prosperity, health, and protection. The temple’s colorful glass mosaic depicts intricate scenes from Hindu mythology, adding an artistic and religious dimension to the place.
Visiting the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is free of charge, but visitors are encouraged to make donations to support the temple's upkeep and community services. The temple is open to people of all faiths and is a popular stop for both religious pilgrims and tourists who want to admire its architectural beauty.
However, visitors are asked to dress modestly when entering the temple. This means wearing clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Women may also be asked to cover their heads as a sign of respect when entering the temple’s inner sanctum. The temple provides robes and shawls for visitors who do not meet the dress code requirements.
It is also important to remove your shoes before entering the temple premises, as a sign of respect for the sacred space. Photography is allowed in certain areas, but it is advisable to be respectful and avoid disturbing any worshippers who may be present.
The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple was established in 1922 by a Hindu devotee named M. Karuppiah. The temple originally began as a small shrine but was later expanded into the glass temple we see today. Over the years, the temple has undergone several renovations, the most notable being the glasswork that was added in the 21st century. This transformation turned the temple into a work of art, and it soon became famous not only for its spiritual significance but also for its unique architecture.
The temple’s architecture is a fusion of traditional Hindu temple design and modern glass art. The entire temple is covered with glass, and every inch of the walls, ceilings, and floors is adorned with beautiful glass mosaics that depict Hindu gods and mythological stories. The result is a breathtaking visual effect, especially when the sunlight shines through the glass, creating a colorful and shimmering reflection inside the temple.
The temple’s primary deity is Goddess Rajakaliamman, a form of the Hindu goddess Kali, known for her power and protection. The temple houses many statues of the goddess, as well as other deities, and is a significant place for worship and religious events.
While the main attraction of the Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple is its stunning glass architecture, there are several activities you can enjoy during your visit:
The Arulmigu Sri Rajakaliamman Glass Temple in Johor Bahru is a mesmerizing blend of spiritual significance and artistic beauty. Its stunning glass architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Johor Bahru. Whether you're visiting to admire the architecture, seek blessings, or simply explore one of Malaysia's most unique landmarks, this temple offers a memorable experience that you won’t forget.