Discover Bintan’s Most Famous Temples: A Spiritual & Cultural Journey

500 Lohan Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva) in Bintan

Bintan Island is often celebrated for its pristine beaches and resort escapes, but beyond the sun, sand, and sea lies a rich tapestry of culture, faith, and history. For travellers seeking a deeper connection with Bintan’s heritage, the island’s temples offer a fascinating glimpse into its multicultural past. Here are three of Bintan’s most iconic and spiritually significant temples—perfect for culture lovers, spiritual seekers, or anyone curious about local history.

500 Lohan Temple (Vihara Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva)

Tucked away in Kijang, South Bintan, the 500 Lohan Temple is widely regarded as one of the most impressive spiritual landmarks on the island. The temple is renowned for its 500 life-sized stone statues of arhats (Lohans), each carved with unique facial expressions and postures, representing wisdom, enlightenment and spiritual discipline.

As you walk among the rows of statues, the calm atmosphere and sacred ambiance invite reflection and awe. The surrounding gardens and traditional Chinese-style architecture—ornate roofs, red pillars, incense-filled courtyards—add to the sense of serenity. Visitors often describe the temple as a hidden gem that combines spiritual depth with artistic craftsmanship.

Visiting hours typically run in the morning until late afternoon, and a short drive from Tanjung Pinang brings you to this peaceful retreat. It makes a perfect stop for those looking to explore Bintan beyond its coastal charms.

Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha

Another must-see spiritual site in Bintan is Vihara Avalokitesvara Graha. This temple holds great significance for Buddhist devotees and visitors drawn to the island’s religious heritage. Although less famous worldwide compared to the 500 Lohan Temple, Avalokitesvara offers an enriching glimpse into local worship and cultural traditions.

Here, the architectural motifs, dragon decorations, and statues create a sacred yet welcoming atmosphere. For many travellers, a visit to Vihara Avalokitesvara is a calm and respectful way to appreciate Bintan’s spiritual diversity. It often finds its place on cultural-heritage tours of the island, making it a meaningful addition to any itinerary beyond beaches and resorts.

Banyan Tree Temple Senggarang (Vihara Pohon Beringin)

For a different kind of heritage experience, the Banyan Tree Temple in Senggarang offers a fascinating blend of history, tradition and architectural uniqueness. Known locally as the “temple of the tree roots,” this temple is believed to be more than 300 years old and stands out because it is literally entwined with the roots of a large banyan tree.

The temple occupies a special place in the history of Bintan’s Chinese-Indonesian community. It was once the residence of a Chinese captain and over time transformed into a place of worship for local Chinese immigrants and their descendants.

Walking through the temple grounds offers a peek into a bygone era—colorful wooden carvings, sea-facing courtyards, and old-world charm. Although the building shows signs of age, its character and heritage remain intact. For travellers, it’s a rare opportunity to step away from tourist resorts into the cultural heart of Bintan.

Why These Temples Should Be on Your Bintan Itinerary

Visiting these temples offers a richer, more nuanced view of Bintan, beyond its beaches and resorts. From the serene spiritual atmosphere of 500 Lohan Temple, through the devotional calm at Vihara Avalokitesvara, to the historical charm of Banyan Tree Temple in Senggarang, each place tells a different story of faith, heritage, and community. Together, they reveal how Bintan blends Malay, Chinese, and Buddhist influences into a unique cultural tapestry.

Whether you travel solo, with family, or as part of a group, these temples offer quiet reflection, architectural beauty, and deep cultural insight. They are particularly appealing to travellers who want to explore the cultural roots and spiritual side of Bintan Island.

For a seamless experience and guided city-temple tour including all three temples and more, book your Bintan city tour with bintanholiday.com today. Discover a different, deeper side of Bintan — beyond the beaches.