Snake Temple of Penang - Fame vs Popularity

The famous snake temple has been refurbished. Even though it's supposed to be the peak tourist and holiday season, the only "crowd" were a group of students from interstate.

Unlike many years ago, visitors came close to the snakes which were allowed to roam freely, with larger snakes placed on the altar. It was said that the snakes had been made drowsy by the burning incense. While some make fear that snakes would harm them, it was more probable that humans injured these reptiles (accidentally or deliberately)?

Today, the snakes are kept away from the main shrine.  To have a close up view of these colourful creatures that come in all shapes and sizes, one has to either pay for taking photographers with the snakes hanging around the neck and shoulder or holding the larger ones.

At another section of the temple, entrance fee is charged to get into what we would call a snake zoo. There are more than 20 species on display. As the weather was warm, the snakes are having a restful nap, oblivious of being watched.

The following pictures may be disturbing to some readers. Please do not read further if you're unsure if you could take it.