Categories > Guides and Tips
Your Guide to the Historic Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery
- History and Background
- Things to Know
- How to Get There
- Areas of the Monastery
- The Hall of Universal Wisdom and the Iconic Pagodas
- The Giant Bronze Buddha and Other Iconic Figures
- Hall of No Form
- Explore the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas
- The Bodhi Tree
- What to Do
- Participate in special ceremonies and rituals
- Volunteer
- Celebrate Vesak Day and other festivals
- Eat at the vegetarian dining hall
If you’re after serenity, stunning architecture, and rich history, Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is a must-visit. As Singapore’s largest Buddhist temple, it’s both a peaceful retreat and a site brimming with cultural and spiritual stories.
This guide will illuminate its history and attractions, so your visit will be an unforgettable experience!
History and Background
Founded in 1921 by Venerable Zhuan Dao, Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery began as a peaceful retreat to promote Mahayana Buddhism. Over time, it grew into a key spiritual hub for Singapore’s Buddhist community.
In the 1970s, Venerable Seck Hong Choon transformed the monastery with major expansions, including its iconic pagodas and the Hall of No Form, home to one of Asia’s largest Buddha statues. His efforts cemented its status as a cultural and spiritual landmark.
Things to Know
Location: 88 Bright Hill Road
Website
Contact: +6568495300
Hours: Daily, 8 AM–4 PM
Fees: Free entry, donations appreciated
Accessibility: Generally wheelchair and stroller-accessible, though has stairs and uneven terrain
Amenities: Restrooms, meditation spaces, vegetarian dining hall, library, shop
Pet-friendly? No
Rules and regulations:
✔ Wear modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees
✔ Remove footwear before entering shrine halls
✔ Maintain respectful conduct at all times
✖ No loud noises/voices
✖ No pets
✖ No indoor photography
✖ No outside offerings; only monastery incense and others
How to Get There
Closest MRT: Take the Thomson-East Coast Line to Bright Hill MRT Station (TE7). From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the monastery.
Alternatively, you can alight at Bishan MRT Station (NS17/CC15) on the North-South or Circle Line, then transfer to bus 410W or 52 at the nearby bus interchange, which will take you directly to the monastery.
Closest bus station: The nearest is Sin Ming Ave – Ai Tong Sch (53351), approximately a 5-minute walk away. Bus services 52, 162, and 410W stop at this location.
By car: There is a four-storey car park with approximately 200 spaces. The main entrance is located on Bright Hill Road, where a designated drop-off area is available for convenient passenger unloading.
Please note that parking fees apply, typically at a rate of S$0.02 per minute or S$1.20 per hour.
Areas of the Monastery
The Hall of Universal Wisdom and the Iconic Pagodas
Media from purplewaffledesigns
The Hall of Universal Wisdom has a peaceful atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection, whose name reflects its purpose as a place for cultivating spiritual knowledge and enlightenment.
It showcases traditional Chinese temple design with intricate carvings, vibrant colours, and a grand tiled roof. Inside, Buddhist statues and sacred symbols create a peaceful, respectful atmosphere.
The iconic pagodas are another highlight, standing tall and majestic against the lush greenery. Their symmetrical tiers and detailed ornamentation are a photographer’s dream.
The Giant Bronze Buddha and Other Iconic Figures
Media from chloechinguyen
For me, one of the most breathtaking sights at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is the giant bronze Buddha in the Hall of No Form. Standing over 13 metres tall, this serene figure exudes a sense of calm and strength that’s truly mesmerising.
Don’t miss the Guanyin Bodhisattva statue in the Venerable Hong Choon Memorial Hall. Known as the Goddess of Mercy, this iconic figure is a symbol of compassion and hope.
Hall of No Form
Media from paleridersg
The Hall of No Form is a peaceful sanctuary and cornerstone of Buddhist practice at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery. Home to one of Asia’s largest bronze Buddha statues, it offers a serene space for reflection and mindfulness.
Connected to the Venerable Hong Choon Memorial Hall, this sacred hall’s minimalist design enhances its role as a meditation space, inviting both spiritual seekers and cultural visitors to experience its tranquillity.
Explore the Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas
Media from enlilragas
The Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas is always a must-see for me at the monastery. Inside, walls lined with countless miniature Buddha statues exude a sacred energy, and climbing the spiral staircase feels like a meditative journey.
At the top, breathtaking views of the monastery and lush surroundings await, offering a serene moment to reflect. Housing important Buddhist relics, the pagoda holds both spiritual and cultural significance, making it a truly memorable experience every time.
The Bodhi Tree
Media from pualkzopa
Meditating near the Bodhi tree at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is a profoundly calming experience for me. Believed to be a descendant of the tree under which Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment, it exudes peace and wisdom, offering a perfect spot for quiet reflection.
What to Do
Participate in special ceremonies and rituals
Media from times_chamber
Joining ceremonies at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is a truly special experience. The “3-Step 1-Bow” ritual, often held on Vesak Day, invites everyone—Buddhist or not—to reflect with humility and gratitude in a serene, meditative atmosphere.
From lighting lotus candles to chanting, these rituals offer a beautiful way to connect with the community and explore Buddhist traditions. The experience is deeply moving and unforgettable, whether you participate or observe.
Volunteer
Media from kmspks_monastery
Volunteering at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery was a rewarding experience. I joined charity initiatives like the Compassion Fund and felt the joy of giving back while connecting with others who shared the same values.
I also helped with programs at the Buddhist College of Singapore, gaining insights into Buddhist teachings while contributing to their mission. It’s not just about giving; it’s a journey of personal growth and connection.
Celebrate Vesak Day and other festivals
Media from joycephotoalbum
Celebrating Vesak Day at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery was an incredible experience. Joining the “3-Step 1-Bow” ritual, bathing the Buddha, and lighting lotus candles in such a peaceful yet festive atmosphere was deeply moving and a beautiful way to honour Buddha’s life and teachings.
I’ve also attended their Hungry Ghost Festival, with meaningful prayers for departed souls, and Chinese New Year blessings that felt both joyous and serene. Each celebration showcases the monastery’s vibrant traditions and its role as a spiritual and cultural hub.
Eat at the vegetarian dining hall
Media from a_little_yellow_car
Eating at the vegetarian dining hall at Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery is a simple, fulfilling experience open to everyone. The serene setting and wholesome dishes, like fried rice, noodle soups, and stir-fried vegetables, make it a perfect spot to recharge.
With refreshing drinks like barley water and tea, generous portions, and affordable prices, it’s not just a tasty meal but also a meaningful way to support the monastery.
