I made a short visit to the Sri Ayanar Temple at Ulu Sepetang near Taiping, on one sunny morning. Quite a lot of people do not know that this temple exist because it is located in a secluded place within an oil palm plantation. Furthermore, Ulu Sepetang is not exactly a place where one would want to stop by and have a look around. However, one would be most surprised to know that this temple complex has a large garden-like complex that is very well-kept and maintained. It is here, where the largest statue of Ayanar, in Malaysia, is to be found. If fact, it is said that the Ayanar statue here is the largest one in South East Asia.
There are two roads leading to the plantation where the temple is located. One is on the right side of the road leading from Kamunting to Bukit Merah toll plaza. Near a stream which is also the boundary of Larut, Matang & Selama district and Kerian district, look out for a signboard to the temple on your right if you are coming from Taiping.
The second road is located on the left hand side of the Kamunting - Batu Kurau main road, opposite the second entrance to Taman Kota Wira. There is also a signboard at the junction. Signboards along the way will guide you. To be sure, the laterite road through the plantation could be a bit rough. So be patient, because what you will behold at the end of the road will be worth all those bumps.
The front of Sri Ayanar Temple at Ulu Sepetang
This is the main temple and images of sages lined-up at the pillars
The figures on the temple tell the story of how this temple was established
A Garden dedicated to the late MGR
An ancient bell
As this visit was made on a weekday, there was no crowd. It has been said that during weekends and public holidays, there could be crowd coming in by bus loads. Visitors should do what is proper at temples. Follow the instructions on the signboards - remove shoes before entering the temple. No taking of photographs or video recording inside the temple. It is definitely a great place to visit for it gives one a feeling of tranquility and a true sense of holiness.
More detailed information is available on Youtube, search "Sri Ayyanar Temple, Ulu Sepetang, Taiping"
