Guanyin Gumiao Temple

Guanyin Gumiao Temple sits on Maha Bandula Road and features traditional Chinese architecture with detailed ornaments and several brick structures arranged within the grounds. The buildings form a connected complex with courtyards and covered walkways linking different sections.

The Cantonese community established this temple in 1823, and after a fire destroyed it in 1855, they rebuilt it in 1864 with additional structures added afterward. This rebuilding phase marked a major turning point in the temple's development.

The temple blends Buddhist and Taoist worship, with visitors coming to pray and make offerings before the main altar dedicated to Guanyin, the goddess of mercy and compassion.

The temple welcomes visitors during daylight hours and allows you to watch religious ceremonies or leave offerings at the altars. It is best to move quietly and respectfully throughout the grounds, paying attention to areas marked for prayers or rituals.

Visitors often overlook the divination sticks and moon-shaped blocks used here for fortune-telling, which remain central to how locals seek guidance. These ancient methods of divination create a distinctive ritual experience found in few other temples in the city.