Sam Poh Footprint Temple in Penang

Sam Poh Footprint Temple in Penang is located in Batu Maung, a tiny fishing village tucked away on the southeast tip of Penang Island. Located close to the waters, this temple of Penang in Malaysia, does not date back to the ancient period. There is a huge footprint on a stone in that area. According to the faith of the locals of Batu Maung, it is believed to have belonged to Chinese Admiral Cheng Ho (Zhenghe) locally known as Sam Poh, who treaded across this area while exploring the Malay peninsula during his voyage across the world.

Interestingly enough, this footprint did not raise enough curiosity among the locals except for the reverence showed through the construction of an altar and some joss sticks. It was only in the recent times, that a temple was built on the footprint, which is as long as 33 inches. History says that Cheng Ho was of giant stature. However, there are other explanations by the Hindus who believe that the footprint belonged to the legendary Hanuman or the monkey god, who stepped on Batu Maung as he leaped over the Indian Ocean. The belief of the local Malays is different as they believe that it was made by Gedembai, a monster, who left his footprints in other places like Kampung Mesjid in Bayan Lepas, Pulau Aman and Pulau Jerejak.

Features of Sam Poh Footprint Temple in Penang

Sam Poh Footprint Temple in Penang was built in 1993 or 1994
There are other Sam Poh temples like Poh San Teng in Malacca, the Sam Poh Tong in Ipoh and Sam Poh Temple in Cameron Highlands.

Hotels in Penang
Traders (Formerly The Shangri-la) Hotel	Holiday Inn Hotel
The Gurney Resort Hotel & Residences Hotel	Sunway Hotel
Bayview Beach Hotel	Evergreen Laurel Hotel