Penang Island

Penang is an ideal tourist destination with many cultural attractions and natural beauty. This island off Malaysia's northwest coast attracts many visitors due to its blend of British colonial architecture and superb sandy beaches.

Tanjung Bungah's sandy beaches and Penang Hill's vivid scenery are two of the island's most attractive attractions. Georgetown's picturesque nooks and corners, as well as the Tropical Spice Garden, the only spice garden in Southeast Asia, as well as its numerous night markets and classy retail malls, are all worth a visit.

Best Things to Do in Penang

With so much to do in Penang, it might be difficult to fit everything into your plan, especially if you're only there for a short period. The island has a fascinating combination of sights, ranging from rich street art and colonial architecture to pristine beaches and lush jungles.

Families may enjoy the excitement of family-friendly amusement parks, while history admirers can discover the island's amusing cultural past through temples, mosques, and ancient districts. Whether you're looking for adventure, cultural immersion, or a fun family vacation, Penang's numerous attractions provide something for everyone.

Make an Entertaining Tour of Penang

Experience the vibrant street art scenarios, try some delicious local cuisine, and explore the historical town areas. Visit the famous Clan Jetties, and relax on the beautiful beaches of Batu Ferringhi. Don't forget to try the famous Penang Laksa and Char Kway Teow for a true taste of Penang!

Penang Hill

Penang Hill, also known as Flagstaff Hill or Bukit Bendera, is a popular destination in Penang, standing at 821 meters above sea level, offering visitors a refreshing escape from the heat and breathtaking island panoramas.

To make the climb easier, you can use the funicular train, which makes its way up the slope in an elegant manner and takes around 30 minutes to complete. Notable features include a mosque, a church, and a Hindu temple that represent Penang's multireligious community.

Kek Lok Si Temple

One of Southeast Asia's biggest Buddhist temple complexes is the Kek Lok Si Temple. Perched on a hill near the town of Air Itam, this breathtaking sanctuary is decorated with well-kept gardens and venerated temples, offering a calm respite for those seeking spirituality.

The Pagoda of 1,000 Buddhas, a 7-tiered temple complex, combines Thai, Chinese, and Burmese styles. It features a collection of Buddha statues, the Four Heavenly Kings, and a statue of Laughing Buddha, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere. The complex's sacred walls showcase the cultural fusion within the temple.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, once a residence of a Chinese industrialist, is a renowned 18th- and 19th-century Chinese architectural masterpiece, crafted over seven years by Chinese master craftsmen, embodying feng shui design.

The Blue Mansion, one of only three traditional Chinese mansions outside China, features an indigo blue façade, five granite courtyards, 38 rooms, seven staircases, and 22 stained glass windows. Restored in 1989, it's now a boutique heritage hotel and museum. Guided tours are available at 11 a.m., 1.30 p.m., and 3 p.m., with an entry fee.

Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis is a well-known landmark in Penang. Its massive 10-foot-high walls are precisely fashioned in the shape of a star. It was initially built out of wood and named for Charles Cornwallis, the previous Governor General of India. However, refurbishments have altered the look of the current solid concrete façade.

The fort features a 17th-century chapel, prison cells, and ammunition storage areas. Notable are the bronze cannons, each with a unique story, including a Dutch cannon believed to positively influence women's fertility. These cannons serve as reminders of the fort's strategic importance in protecting the island during conflict.

Khoo Kongsi

The Khoo Kongsi is a Chinese clan house keen on Khoo individuals, symbolizing social and spiritual connections. Dragon Mountain Hall, with intricate stone carvings, exudes auspiciousness and prosperity, showcasing the extended Khoo family, ancestors, and the wider community.

Inside the clubhouse, bright paintings depict major occasions in the Khoo family's lives, such as birthdays and marriages. Among these interesting artworks, the representation of 36 holy guards is particularly striking. Above, paper lamps provide a soft glow across the space, contributing to the wonderful atmosphere. The roof ridges are alive with magnificent ceramic sculptures depicting eternal beings, carp, fish, and dragons.

Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram

Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram is a Thai temple that goes back to 1845. It proudly houses a stunning Reclining Buddha statue that is 33 meters in length. The sculpture is highly admired because it depicts his peaceful rest before his eventual death.

Nestled inside the temple grounds, beside the majestic reclining Buddha, you will find an assortment of lesser Buddha statues, each exhibiting a different garb and stance, as well as images of respected Thai deities. Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram also features beautiful and colorful murals on its walls, the majority of which vividly depict Buddha's extraordinary life narrative.

Old Georgetown

Old Georgetown in Penang is a fascinating mix of history, culture, and active street life. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it provides insight into Penang's colonial history and cosmopolitan heritage. Its small lanes are dotted with well-preserved historic structures. The walls are covered with vibrant street art, which gives the surroundings a modern creative touch.

Old Georgetown is full of bustling marketplaces and hawker booths where you can taste the native cuisine. You may easily spend an entire day touring temples and clan houses, as well as uncovering hidden jewels in this old section of Penang.

Clan Jetties of Penang

The clan jetties of Penang, located along Weld Quay, are a lovely panorama of wooden dwellings placed on stands above the river and connected by a planked walkway. These picturesque fishing towns, dating back to the nineteenth century, stand as living reminders of Penang's dynamic past.

The Chew Jetty is the most well-known and largest of Penang's eight clan jetties. The remainder are referred to as Koay Jetty, Lee Jetty, Lim Jetty, Peng Aun Jetty, Tan Jetty, Yeoh Jetty, and Mixed Clans Jetty. These prominent sites, thanks to their distinct architectural history, provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of the residents and their connection to the sea.

Penang Bridge

The Penang Bridge, a 13.5 km dual carriageway suspension bridge, is a significant link connecting Penang to the mainland at Seberang Perai. Despite not being an official sightseeing spot, its architectural marvel and role in connectivity make it a key part of Penang's identity.

Every year in November or December, hundreds of runners assemble for the Penang Bridge International Marathon, also known as the Penang Bridge Marathon. It has been held at Penang Bridge since 1984 and is one of Malaysia's most popular running events.

Penang Botanic Gardens

The Penang Botanical Gardens are situated in a valley on Jalan Kebun Bunga near George Town. It's a beautifully designed area with a wide diversity of indigenous and exotic plant species. It was established in 1884 by the British, especially Charles Curtis of the Gardens & Forests Department's Straits Settlements.

The Penang Botanical Gardens, located 8 km from George Town, showcases a variety of plants, including the cannonball tree, Pacific Walnut tree, pinang palm, black lily, and slipper orchids, some of the more interesting plants in the gardens are only open to visitors for limited hours.

Best Beaches and Islands in Penang

The best beaches and islands in Penang are among the most beautiful in Malaysia. With crystal clear waters and powdery white sands, these destinations are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The majority of these serene locations are located in the northern portion of Penang, with a handful in the western, south, and southwest beaches, and are only a 30-minute drive from Georgetown.

We have given you the names of some of Penang's most popular islands or beaches. You'll be able to follow this and enjoy more of your vacation trip:

• Batu Feringghi
• Tanjung Bungah
• Pulau Jerejak (Jerejak Island)
• Monkey Beach
• Teluk Bahang
• Pantai Teluk Kampi (Teluk Kampi Beach)
• Pantai Kerachut
• Pulau Aman
• Pulau Kendi
• Gertak Sanggul
• Pasir Panjang

Don't miss out on exploring the vibrant marine life while snorkeling or diving in these pristine waters. You may encounter colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even sea turtles gliding gracefully through the crystal-clear ocean. Make sure to bring your underwater camera to capture these unforgettable moments beneath the surface.

Where to Stay in Penang

Penang offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Whether you prefer to stay in the historic George Town area or along the beach in Batu Ferringhi, there are plenty of choices to suit every traveler's needs.

• Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Penang
• Shangri-La’s Rasa Saying Resort & Spa
• Ixora Hotel Penang
• G Hotel Gurney
• Hard Rock Hotel Penang
• Royale Chulan Penang
• Lone Pine, Penang, A Tribute Portfolio Resort
• Hotel Continental Penang
• Eastin Hotel
• Amari SPICE Penang
• Sunway Hotel Georgetown
• Parkroyal Penang Resort
• The Edison George Town, Penang
• JEN Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La
• Courtyard By Mirriot Penang

Penang is known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Consider staying at a luxury hotel that offers stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities for a truly indulgent experience. There are lots of luxury hotels in Penang you can book online.

How to Go to Penang

Penang can be reached by air, with the Penang International Airport serving as the main gateway to the island. Alternatively, travelers can also take a ferry from the mainland to reach Penang Island.

The airport is well-connected to major cities in Malaysia and other countries, making it a convenient option for international travelers. The ferry ride offers a scenic journey across the sea and is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the coastal views.

Penang is reasonably easy to roam, with paved roads connecting various regions of the island. However, its high population density frequently causes traffic gridlock during rush hour.

Penang offers a variety of transportation options for various budgets, including buses for long-distance travel, traditional trishaws for a laid-back experience, car rentals and taxis for larger budgets, and traditional trishaws for UNESCO-listed George Town.

From the vibrant street art in George Town to the stunning views from Penang Hill, there are endless opportunities for capturing memorable moments. Don't forget to charge your camera and bring extra memory cards to ensure you don't miss a single shot!