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Tourist Places in Penang

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Batu Ferringhi Beach is an adventure land where you can get your adrenalin racing while on a leisure holiday. The availability of Jet Skis and Parasailing sports by the seaside is a major lure that pulls every tourist who visits this town in Penang. Apart from just laying around the beach and taking a sunbath, other things you can do here are getting a buggy ride on the golden sand, go deep sea fishing or revel in a banana boat ride. Location: 11km from City Center, George Town Timings: A few hours before sunset is apt so that you have enough time to beach stuff and adventure sports before watching the mesmeric sunset. Click Here to Checkout & Book  Wet World Water Park Shah Alam Tickets You can also checkout  Kuala Lumpur Attractions

Penang Butterfly Park, Entopia

If you haven’t had the chance to connect with the charm of nature in a long time, then Entopia Penang Butterfly Park should be on your list of places to visit in Penang. This farm houses over 4,000 butterflies of about 150 species, each more ecstatic than the other drifting one into a fairytale land. You can watch plenty of butterflies flutter around in freedom at the Natureland, or visit the cocoon, the abode for their little ones breathe into life. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Book Now:  Entopia Tickets

Penang House of Music

It is no surprise how much emphasis Penang lays on exhibiting its rich culture and heritage; the Penang House of Music is one such place where one can get in sync with their musical tradition. The presence of a resource centre where music enthusiasts can learn more about Penang’s melodious history makes it more attention-grabbing than it already is. Testifying its name aptly, one can listen to music that belongs to several countries in the world including Indian folk and Chinese Opera. Location: Level 3, KOMTAR Jalan Penang Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m. You can also check out & book  Petronas Towers Tickets

Glass Museum Penang

Choose to visit the Glass Museum Penang during your visit, and you are sure to rave about its build and beauty for the rest of your life. Pictures from your trip cannot get any better than when clicked in this museum where you can confuse the image when standing in the large kaleidoscope. The display of items made from recycled glass is creativity personified. You could excel in it too if you partake in the craft class and take it back home as an irreplaceable memory. Location: Jalan Burma, Geroge Town Timings: 09.30 a.m. to 06.00 p.m.; 09.30 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. on Saturday (Closed on Sundays) Also Check out & Book:  Menara Kuala Lumpur Tickets

The Top Komtar Penang

Theme parks and entertainment needn’t be only from the outdoor roller coaster and water slides; the Top Komtar Penang is amongst those places to visit in Penang that entertainment to great heights, literally. This tall building conducts entertainment activities like Magic Mirror Maze, 7D Discovery Motion Theatre, Ocean Explorer, Window of the Top, DanceOki, Rainbow Skywalk, etc. Keep yourself full by stopping by at one of the several restaurants in-between all the fun. Location: Jalan Penang, George Town Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m.; 11.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday   Recommended Read: Places to visit in Kuala Lumpur

Kek Lok Si is a wonderful Buddhist temple built in away from Penang’s shore. This architectural structure that is a haven for Buddhist pilgrims and Chinese teachings houses a large Buddha statue apart from thousands of his pictures, more than a hundred carvings, and some sculptures making it a traditional home for both Mahayana Buddhism and Theravada Buddhism. You can only imagine the backdrop that this scenic temple has considering it is built in the hill station on the foot of Air Itam Mountain. The ponds hurling with fishes and the lush gardens add to the equanimity of this place. Location: 3km from Penang Hill Station Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Also Explore:  Things to do in KL Click Here to Checkout & Book: Zoo Negara Tickets Y ou can also checkout  99 Wonderland Park Ticket Price

Tropical Spice Garden

This is a place for all those who want to off-beat things when away on a trip to Penang. The garden that once used to be a rubber plantation has now transformed into an aromatic spice garden where there is a lot to learn about the 500 species of flora and fauna for enthusiasts. You can walk around the natural trails that also cross waterfalls while you explore this award-winning garden with a guided tour. Try your hands at the cooking classes that teach how to cook using those spices to create a delightful dish. The shop in the garden could also gift you with a plant if you are in luck. A night walk in this rainforest is also an enthralling experience to watch some nocturnal plants and animals. Location: Lone Crag Villa, Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. You can also check out & book  Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary Tickets

Best of Dubai

Teddyville Museum

The Teddyville Museum is indeed just as amazing as it sounds where you can witness the joy of being around our childhood furry friends have a whole building to themselves. This enchanting teddy world has the leading collection of teddy bears, which also recite the magnificent history of Penang in the most delightful way that makes learning easy and cute! Spare some time, and learn the art of making a teddy bear in this museum which would make the most lovable gift you can give to your dearest ones. Location: DoubleTree Resort Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Suggested Read:   Adventurous Things to do in KL

Penang National Park

Penang National Park breaks the stigma around a national park being about plentiful animals and long jungles. This smallest national park in Malaysia is all about exploring nature by walking in its trails where you can spot some animals like monkeys and giant lizards. Here’s the amazing part- it all leads to a beach! That is one of a kind, where you get to sunbathe in almost privacy, swing on the beachside, visit the lighthouse and picnic. The Kerachut beach here is home to thousands of turtles with whom you can spend some time if you are lucky in this Malaysia park

Location: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, George Town Timings: 07.30 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. You can also check out KL Tower Mini Zoo Ticket Price

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The blue mansion tip-top with flawless infrastructure has won several awards and is recognized by the UNESCO for conserving the heritage. It has even won accolades for being amongst the best Penang tourist places. Dig deeper to be mesmerized by the history of this mansion. One can stay in one of the thirty-eight rooms looking chic in their Anglo-Indian design that looks no less than a traditional five-star setting. Location: 14 Leith Street, George Town Timings: 11.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m.; 02.00 p.m. to 03.00 p.m.; 03.030 p.m. to 04.30 p.m. Must Know:   Things to do in Malaysia

Clan Jetties

A lot many people from China had moved to Penang centuries ago, and the Clan Jetties is home to the last set of them. You will find here six jetties (houses) floating on water that signify six villages made up of wood and aluminium. It is a spectacle to watch the stilt houses out which the Chew Jetti is recommended as most tourist friendly. A temple in the region is also one of the amusing things you can see here. This settlement of the 19th century is just like a normal village with shops and tasty food, but for the fact that it is erect on the water! Location: Pengkalan Weld Quay Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 09.00 p.m. Click Here to Checkout:  Splash Out Langkawi Ticket Price

Penang Floating Mosque

Penang Floating Mosque is just like any other typical mosque but for the uniqueness that it is built in the ocean water, making it stand out from the others. Built not so long ago in 2005, this is the only one that is built in the ocean water. An attraction of this mosque is that they allow people to swim around it when the tides are bearable to witness the underwater engineering that holds this religious building above water. The sound of the azaan, their call to prayer makes one dwell in the sanctity of their beliefs. Location: Tanjung Bungah Timings: 05.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. Must know:   Places to visit in Langkawi Get Great Deals On  Madame Tussauds Sydney Tickets

Tropical Fruit Farm

You might have visited all kinds of farms, but the opportunity to visit a huge farm spread across several acres that grow over 250 of the 370 edible fruits that grow in Malaysia can be grabbed only at the Tropical Fruit Farm in Penang. One doesn’t just get to watch the process of growing organic fruits but is also permitted to try their hands at it or get a taste of them. Feel free to ask the workers there just about anything about this entire process, and they will jump at the chance to edify you about it. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM 10 (free for children) Recommended Read:  Places to visit in Malaysia Get Great Deals On  Leaning Tower Of Pisa Tickets

Penang Hill

The cluster of several mountain peaks, the view of the jungle, the city and the coastline ahead of it and the train ride of the longest track in Asia and steepest track in the world together put Penang Hill on the list of places to visit in Penang. It is a refreshing break from the tropical climate of Malaysia with a fresh atmosphere of cool air. Location: 9km from George Town Timings: Most attractions on Penang Hill shut down by 07.00 p.m. The last train from the hilltop leaves at 11.00 p.m. Entry Fee: You do not have to pay to visit Penang Hill, but you will have to buy a ticket for the funicular train which varies for children, groups, senior citizens, round trips, school trips, disabled people and fast lane. You can also check out:  Malaysia Tour Package

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Dhammikarna Burmese Temple

The Dhammikarna Burmese Temple is the only Burmese Buddha temple outside Myanmar and has statues of his meditation pose at every end of this temple. The eccentric story of Buddha is conveyed through the frescoes that you will witness as you walk inside this serene atmosphere where there is also a Bodhi Tree and a wishing pond. One can spot the life of the monks for they live in apartments inside this very temple.  Make sure you remove your shoes before entering as a mark of respect. Location: Lorong, Burmah Timings: 05.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m Also Checkout:  Batu Caves Tour Package Also Checkout and Book:  Nasrid Palaces Tickets

Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

This 1821 colonial building is like entering into the doors of the ancient times because every corner right from the gate onwards narrates the history of Penang. Holding a significant place in the Penang tourist places, this museum is a treasure of galleries, artefacts, creativity, and costumes which express the events from the past in a manner that one can easily relate to. The addition of structures inside that display the traditional houses and marriage centres in those times is a wonderful piece of art to adore. Location: Lebuh Farquhar, Geroge Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. (Closed on Fridays) Click Here to Checkout:  Petrosains KLCC Ticket Price

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

For all those who cannot get enough of learning about the cultures in the world, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion will seem like a house of joy for you. This museum is dedicated to retelling the history of the Peranakan people who are otherwise referred to as Strait Chinese. History claims that they moved to Malaysia several years ago and are a blend of Chinese and Malay cultures. You can find everything about this story, age-old artefacts and constructions depicting their past lives in this mansion. Location: Church Street, George Town Timings: 09.30 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM 20 (Free entry for children below six years) Also Checkout:  What to do in Langkawi Must Read:  Gold Coast Cruises

What makes City Mall different from the many others is the unique interior that gives a tropical look and feels to the mall with water bodies and palm trees that even allow some outdoor ventilation. It is a fun place to shop when you want to keep away from the regular tourist places. Location: Tanjung Tokong Also Explore:  Indoor activities in KL

Arulnigu Karumariamman Temple

The massive temple spread across a huge piece of land, the Indianness in its interiors and the sculptors inside make this visit a worthy one. One cannot miss the beautiful colors used to make this temple or the literal traditions of tying fresh mango leaves at the entrance. Inappropriate clothing and photography without permission are frowned upon by devotees of this temple. Location: Jalan Todak You may also checkout:    Water Sports in Langkawi Click Here to Book Now:  Kidzania Dubai Tickets

Penang Wonderfood Museum

Penang Wonderfood Museum is true to its name, a ‘food museum’ that is one-of-a-kind and explicitly marvellous. This building is dedicated to glorifying the food culture of Penang by creating large plastic models of the food that this place is known for. Not just that, you will also find a list of places where you can find those delicious dishes around Penang. The exhibit looks so appealing, that one is sure to leave with a grumbling stomach craving for food by the time you walk out. Location: 49, Lebuh Pantai, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. Entry Fee: RM25 for adults and RM15 for children and senior citizens. Click Here to Checkout the  Underwater World Langkawi Price

Places to Visit with Kids & Family in Penang

Escape theme park.

This is the first theme park launched in Penang that is entertaining people with thrilling adventures and a water park. The natural environment around that sway with the wind in the area uplifts the theme park experience, especially when you go bungee jumping. Apart from a lazy pool and water slides like other theme parks, this premises also conducts other adventures like flying fox, Go Ape, Gecko Tower, and Monkey Business which are all fancy names for activities like rock climbing, crossing suspension bridges and climbing uphill on a seat. Location: Jalan Teluk Bahang Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m. (Closed on Monday) Click Here to Checkout:  Sunway Lagoon Ticket Price

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Penang 3D Trick Art Museum

Penang 3D Trick Art Museum is for all those who love to click pictures until the phone’s battery dies; here you can do just that, but by tricking the viewer. The museum has been designed in a manner where one can click pictures with several structures that may seem ordinary, but have a catch to make things original when you see them in an image. Every corner is filled with murals as well as life-size figures that make it more exciting and ingenious. Location: Penang Street, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 06.00 p.m.; 09.00 a.m. to 08.00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday You can also checkout:   Aquaria KLCC Price

Adventure Zone

You could have a tough time getting your kids out of here once you take them to the Adventure Zone, but, it is worth it. It is an indoor adventure place for every growing child, toddlers, children and teens who can be accompanied by their parents. From drop slides, net-bridges, and playground to a ball fountain and outdoor games, this air-conditioned children’s dreamland is worth every penny! The good news? You only have to pay for your children, and your entry is free! Location: Golden Sands Resort Timings: 10.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. You can also check out  Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi Ticket Price

Made In Penang Interactive Museum

Taking a tour of this museum is possibly the most fun Penang things to do. Situated within the vicinity of the historical Behn Meyer building, this museum displays 3-D trick art, paintings, murals and much more. It is a two-storey structure which showcases works of local artists with themes of the Penang lifestyle. While here, do not forget to capture many trick-shots and almost unreal photographs. Location: 10, Lebuh Penang, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia. Timing: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 PM | Saturday and Sunday 9:00 am - 8:00 pm. Entry Fee: - Adults - RM 35 - Kids (3 to 12 years old) - RM 25

Kapitan Keling Mosque

Witness the pulchritude of sunset that reflects oh-so-perfectly on the arches and minarets of the Kapitan Keling Mosque which is amongst the top-rated places to visit in Penang. The construction of the mosque has a lot of heads turning with their crystal chandeliers and big prayer hall complementing this white religious structure. Just like every other mosque, women who aren’t covered cannot enter the mosque. What was only a small initiative by the first Indian Muslims who moved to Malaysia has now become the largest mosque in Penang. Location: Jalan Buckingham Timings: 09.030 a.m. to 05.030 p.m. Also Check out & Book:  Langkawi Wildlife Park Tickets

Penang Bridge

Penang Bridge is much like the London Bridge for the residents of Penang who boast of this 13.5km long bridge that connects the island with the mainland. Since the ferry route became busier with a growing population, this suspension bridge was constructed to make more transport options available only to become the second-longest bridge in Malaysia. This bridge that is always swarming with people is where several significant marathons are held. A picture from this fifth-longest bridge in South Asia will surely send your way many thumbs ups! Location: Connects Seberang Perai with George Town Entry Fee: Toll starting from RM 1.40. Click here to check out the   Crocodile Adventureland Langkawi Ticket Price

Goddess of Mercy Temple

The Goddess of Mercy Temple is also called the Kuan Yin Teng which hails from the 1800s and is flocked by believers from around Malaysia every new year to seek blessings for a wonderful year ahead with prosperity and good health. Festival days are the best time to visit this temple because the entire temple comes to life with its puppet shows and other performances. The architecture of the temple, colorful decoration, and daily rituals make this a rightful choice in the places to visit in Penang. Location: Jalan Masid Kapitan Keling Timings: Early morning to 06.00 p.m. Click Here to check out the   Hop on Hop off KL Ticket Price

Penang Bird Park

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Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest

Spend a day of leisure at the Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest that is packed with greenery and serenity. Walk by the completely safe forest area, ride a bike to cover the entire forest, or hike up the trails hidden inside. Many also love to camp there overnight, and the forest also rents out chalets for those who haven’t had enough of the sound of nature. Relax by the slow flowing stream and take a dip before you set off to cover the rest of the forest. It is indeed one of the most soothing Penang tourist places. Location: 8km from Bukit Mertajam Timings: 07.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. Also Checkout & Book:  Genting Highlands Day Tour

Penang Snake Temple

Just as its name sounds, the Penang Snake Temple is indeed a shelter for several snakes who came in even after the Chor Soo Kong left for the heavenly abode, in whose honor this temple was built. It is believed that he was a great healer and wanted to give the snakes a place to live. Also known as The Temple of Azure Cloud, this is one of the most attractive places to visit in Penang if you want to see snakes lay comfortably in their home. Location: 3km from Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas, 12km from George Town Timings: 06.00 a.m. to 07.00 p.m. Entry Fees: Free; RM 5 for adults and RM3 for children if you want to visit the Snake Farm. You can also checkout  Langkawi Cable Car Price

St. George’s Anglican Church

The blue marble flooring marvellously complements the white structure of St. George's Anglican Church you will find inside. It was designed by artist Captain Robert Smith who was very renowned for his paintings; those are still preserved in the State Museum next door. Being one of the oldest buildings built in this city, it is surely one of the places to visit in Penang to acquaint with the people. Location: Next to Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, Jalan Lebuh Farquhar Timings: 08.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 01.30 p.m. to 06.30 p.m. (Tuesday to Saturday); Open throughout the day on Sunday.

Straits Quay

Straits Quay is one of the latest additions to the shopping scenario in Penang; in fact, it is the only one that faces the sea, which makes for an amazing view while shopping. You will find an array of retail shops selling away to their hearts glory, soaking in all the energy from the winds from the shore. This shopping arena is mostly dominated by nail spas, hair spas, and boutiques, which makes it one of the ‘must visit’ Penang tourist places for the women. You can also dine with wine when here! Location: Jalan Seri Tanjung Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 01.00 a.m. (Up to midnight on Sunday)

Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

If you haven’t been to this most copacetic architecture building before called Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, then you haven’t been to Penang at all. Considered amongst the signature places to visit in Penang, this Chinese clanhouse is an anchorage for craft and architecture with stone carvings, sculptures, and lamps that adds the twinkle on this ornamented structure. It was the place of worship and meeting of those Chinese people who had the same surname and belief so that they could take their faith forward in harmony and unity. The whole idea was to emphasise the need to be there for the people of our community. Location: Cannon Square, George Town Timings: 09.00 a.m. to 05.00 p.m. (Closed on Sunday) Entry Fee: RM 10 for adults and RM 1 for children above five years.

The Youth Park is one of the popular places to visit with your family, especially your children owing to the various attractions it has in store. It is well-maintained and clean where one can picnic, sit under the shade of the trees, make friends with the monkeys, click photographs, jog, cycle, take a splash in the pool, children can unwind at the playground while you can lay on the lawn to catch up with fresh air. The indoor waterfall makes this a more visited place not just by tourists but also by the residents of Penang who need a one-day-picnic. Location: Persiaran Kuari, George Town Timings: 06.00 a.m. to 05.30 p.m.

Places to Visit in Penang at Night

Batu ferringhi night museum.

Who can get enough of shopping? You have had a very rushy sightseeing day, and haven’t gone enough of your shopping is done; then you should march straight to the Batu Ferringhi Night Museum where you can spend time till late at night. Even though the items sold here are not branded, people still love visiting the place for all the basic things like scarves, tops, and sunglasses at cheap rates. Location: Jalan Patai Batu Timings: 07.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m.

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Three Sixty Rooftop Bar and Revolving Restaurant

Get a top view of Penang, the city, the lights and of course the sea from Three Sixty Rooftop Bar and Revolving Restaurant where you can get an intimate seating even with so many people around you. Widely known for its ambience, western cuisine, and cocktails & mocktails, this should surely be amongst the places to visit in Penang for dining. You can also choose to eat at the indoor air-conditioned setting, which offers everything as on the terrace. Location: Lebuh Farquhar, George Town Timings: 04.00 p.m. to 01.00 a.m. (Up to 02.00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday)

Hard rock Café

There’s nothing like night munching vibe in this radiance that perfectly suits the rock bands who love playing some classical music for their visitors. While a burger is the most common food item, it is just something else at this café; you must try it! Wear your best, and head to Hard Rock Café which has also preserved some possessions of famous musicians. Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi Timings: 11.30 a.m. to 02.00 a.m. (Up to 02.30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday

Soho Free House

Get your dancing shoes on and party till as late as one would want to at Soho Free House. This pub is for every party-lover in the list of Penang tourist places. You wouldn’t find such a British-style pub anywhere else in George Town that attracts people with its décor, service, and food! You should try Shepherd’s Pie that they make here in a very traditional manner. Location: Jalan Penang, George Town Timings: 12.00 p.m. to 03.00 a.m

Gurney Drive

Don’t kill your late night cravings by just some water; take a ride on one of the best of the 25 streets in the world, Gurney Drive. This street is a boulevard for a line-up of street food from around the world and also encloses the hawker’s centre. Besides that, this Broadway also has the best restaurants and bars in town! Location: George Town

Trending in Penang

Adventure in penang.

Penang Top Attractions

Planning to have some excitement with your family and friends then head out to this gorgeous beach Teluk Bahang  in Penang and enjoy the rocky and the shady surroundings of the beach. This place is the perfect getaway for you as it is a bit isolated from the huge crowds which we usually find in the beaches.    Highlights: If you are a nature lover then this is the best place for you as it is the home of Penang Butterfly Farm. You can enjoy the view of the beautiful landscape and also go on the trekking after  enjoying a sunbath. You can also enjoy the mouthwatering seafood which is served there in the restaurants.  Best Season: May to October  Location: North western tip of the Island Penang.    

Penang Hills is officially named Bukit Bendera, meaning Flagstaff Hill. Penang Hills was founded by Captain Francis Light, a British belonging to the East India Company, in the late 18th century. The hill was renamed Flagstaff Hill, much evident in its current name. The captain had done some deforestation for growing strawberries and hence, this place is sometimes referred to as Strawberry Hill.The Habitat Penang Hill is one of the best eco-tourism attractions with nature’s best and flourishing experiences. These experiences take you on a tour of Penang Hill’s prehistoric rainforests which are greener and older than Amazon rainforests. The tour of the tropical diverse ecosystem of Penang will make you experience exotic weather and 50% exceptional flora and fauna lying only in this place of the whole island. This makes you walk through the langur hay canopy and the infamous Ribbon bridge.The 13 meters high Curtis crest tree top walk is the highest point for the spectators to enjoy on Penang Island. The natural ecosystem of Penang is protected and maintained by a non-profit Habitat Foundation that safeguards biodiversity and forests.Click Here to Book: Habitat Penang Hill Tickets

If you are planning to visit Malaysia’s Penang, then Entopia Penang needs to be on your itinerary. In one of Malaysia’s largest butterfly farms, one can witness the stunning sight of more than 15,000 butterflies flying freely amidst natural settings of blooming flowers and rich vegetation. If you dare, you can also meet and greet the residents of Nature’s underground, like insects and creepy crawlies like snakes and scorpions.With more than 200 species of flora and over 150 species of fauna, Entopia recreates the natural tropical habitat of the numerous natural inhabitants. The park also aims to teach visitors about butterflies and other residents of the park through its various exhibits and face-to-face interactions with the creatures. There are also Nature Learning Activities like Nature Talk, Vita Nova, and Bug Exploration, where curious visitors are welcomed to explore more about the wild. Entopia Penang also has numerous activities and interactive exhibits designed especially for children, making it one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Malaysia.Click Her to Book: Entopia Tickets

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Penang

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Malaysian state of Penang consists of an island and a peninsula connected to each other by the two longest bridges in the country. George Town, Penang's capital, has become a major tourist destination in Malaysia. Some of the main attractions are its colonial architecture; its connection to WWII; and its many green spaces, which include everything from formal botanical gardens to tropical jungle.

Sections of George Town have also been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites , in part because of their maritime urban settlements known as clan jetties.

If you're looking for ideas on how to spend your time once you get to Malaysia, see our list of top tourist attractions in Penang.

1. The Habitat Penang Hill

2. clan jetties, george town, 3. entopia by penang butterfly farm, 4. historical streets of george town, 5. fort cornwallis, 6. penang war museum, bukit batu maung, 7. batu ferringhi night market, 8. kek lok si temple, 9. penang national park, 10. penang hill funicular, bukit bendera, 11. penang botanic gardens, 12. street art in george town, 13. batu ferringhi beach, 14. khoo kongsi, 15. tanjung bungah floating mosque, where to stay in penang for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in penang, penang, malaysia - climate chart.

The Habitat Penang Hill is a rainforest experience that takes you into the heart of the jungle and lets you truly feel all the sounds, colors, and smells up close. Your first contact with nature is through the 1.6-kilometer-long nature trail, which cuts through the ancient forest, over rolling hills and far above the Andaman Sea-all of which you can see from several lookout points along the way.

For an even more stunning view of the surroundings, visitors can take the Langur Way Canopy Walk , 15 meters up in the air and 230 meters long, gently curving around and through the trees. Or they can try the ziplines for an up-close experience of the jungle.

For those wanting to catch a glimpse of George Town, as well as the surrounding jungle, nothing beats the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk , a circular platform with 360-degree views and the highest point on the island. Special tours guided by naturalists take place here as the sun sets, when you can see not only a stunning array of colors on the sky, but also catch a glimpse of giant flying red squirrels, bats, and the Penang gecko.

Official site: https://thehabitat.my

The Clan Jetties are one of the most significant historical areas in Penang-a traditional village consisting of structures and houses built on stilts right over the water.

Clan jetties are a very unique type of water settlement created by Chinese immigrants in the late 19 th century. Originally, they consisted of a single structure used as a sort of small warehouse where the loading and unloading of products and materials (including firewood, charcoal, and boat transportation) for a particular trade or industry happened.

Over the years, families (or clans) took over certain industries and unofficially claimed a certain area of the dock, with each clan getting bigger and building more huts along the way.

There are now six jetties on the waterfront-all of them still home to Chinese descendants and considered a historical reminder of the industries that helped shape Penang. While they are technically private property where families live, most of the jetties welcome visitors for a glimpse of their local temple, photos of the sunset over the water, and a nostalgic walk over the walkway surrounding the stilt-houses.

Entopia is Penang's new butterfly farm, a massive glass conservatory where over 15,000 free-flying butterflies live among waterfalls, lush tropical greenery, and re-created natural features.

Trails crisscross through the greenhouse, offering many chances to see butterflies in their natural element, including small caves, a wild garden, a backyard area, and more. Special events throughout the day allow visitors to interact with butterflies up close and learn about unique and rare species.

Entopia is divided into two main sections: Natureland and Cocoon. Natureland is a living garden vivarium that encompasses the main butterfly area, plus ponds and special areas where snapping turtles, frogs, iguanas, and a number of large insects live. Cocoon is Entopia's discovery center, where visitors can learn more about butterflies and participate in hands-on activities.

This two-story center also offers short nature-learning programs for both children and grown-ups.

Official site: http://www.entopia.com/

George Town, Panang's capital city, is a stunning mix of European and Asian influences. Over the past five centuries, the city has grown into a vibrant port town and tourist destination, but without losing the unique legacy that caused her to receive UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2008.

While George Town's architecture is impressive anywhere, the old streets around the Lebuh Acheh historical enclave hold the most significance-from old Chinese shophouses to British colonial mansions and clan houses to a number of temples representing several religions, these historical streets are fascinating to explore.

Among George Town's most significant historical buildings, you'll find the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion , one of only three mansions outside China built using traditional Feng Shui architectural principles, and an early 19th-century Chinese temple dedicated to the Goddess Kuan Yin. The Penang State Museum & Art Gallery , which explores Penang's past and cultural legacy, is a good stop if you want to better understand the importance of this area.

The best way to explore the historical area of George Town is to just walk around and appreciate the rows of wooden shutters, low shophouses, stucco buildings, and colorful details on the most unexpected structures.

Penang's most famous landmark is also the largest fort in the country. Although only one outer wall with cannons remains from the original 1786 bastion , there are enough structures left behind it to give you an idea of the massive size of the original fort.

Stroll through the well-cared-for green lawn to find the remains of prison cells, a chapel, and a storage area that was once used to keep ammunition. A bronze statue of Captain Francis Light, who originally ordered the building of the fort, welcomes visitors as they enter through the gate.

The fort never saw any actual combat, and it was mostly used as an administrative point. Over the years, additional buildings and statues were added, including a steel lighthouse with a design that resembles a ship's mast. While there are small exhibits throughout the fort that explain some of its history, the space is mostly used by locals as a park to spend a quiet afternoon in the sun.

This 20-acre outdoor living war museum in Penang sits on the former site of a 1930s British fort and gun armory. The fort failed to stop the invading Japanese army in WWII and suffered significant damage to its structure. It was later reconstructed and is now home to Southeast Asia's largest war museum and a memorial to the many men who suffered and died under occupation.

The museum's main attractions are all at least partially underground -some as deep as 10 meters under the Earth-and include ammunition bunkers, pillboxes (concrete posts or small fortifications used to hide when firing at the enemy), a communications center, and escape tunnels leading right to where the submarines once stood in wait.

On the surface, cannons, barrack blocks, and a number of photographs and testimonials bring the history of the place back to life. Visitors are welcome to explore the large fort on their own, experiencing the area as they see fit and discovering unexpected corners along the way-including walls riddled with bullet holes, a Japanese suicide vest, and a guillotine stand.

Open until midnight every day, this massive night market with over 100 stalls and tons of character is the perfect place to pick up traditional souvenirs, including batik prints, lacquer plates, and delicate paper lamps. There are also plenty of chances to find copies of famous clothes, watches and purses brands, as well as other small treasures.

Restaurants and food stalls line up the streets here as well, where you have a chance to try a number of delicacies, such as teochew chendol , shaved ice filled with green rice jelly and coconut milk.

Over a hundred years old and the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia, Kek Lok Si is home to a seven-tiered pagoda, over 10,000 Buddha statues , and a 37-meter-tall bronze sculpture of Kuan Yin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion. Around the main statue-the tallest statue of Kuan Yin in the world-there are 100 smaller statues of the Goddess, each two meters tall. The temple is considered a main pilgrimage destination, and it attracts Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia.

The temple covers an area of over 12 hectares, reached after a three-kilometer hike and a steep walk up a stone staircase from the top of Penang Hill. Colorful prayer halls, beautifully manicured gardens, ponds with fish and turtles, and many lanterns line the way-the lights are particularly stunning the month following Chinese New Year, as they stay lit well into the night for four straight weeks.

Penang National Park might be one of the smallest in the world at just 23 square kilometers, but it still contains five very distinct habitats with over 400 different plant species. In addition to forests and mangroves, there is also a long stretch of seacoast here with timber trees lining up the white powdery sand and coastal habitat.

The park is famous for its many trails, which zigzag into the jungle and along the coastline towards landmarks such as the Muka Head lighthouse, which can only be reached by a steep trek up a hill at the end of Monkey Beach. All trails in the park have been left in their original condition, except for the addition of concrete steps and ropes in certain areas to help climbers continue on their way when the terrain gets too demanding.

There's also a 250-meter-long canopy walk off one of the trails, which allows visitors to step among the treetops, 15 meters in the air on a rope and wooden platform.

Built in 1923 and completely overhauled in 2010, the Penang Hill Railway-which has the world's steepest tunnel track -climbs Penang Hill and offers beautiful green open views over the city. While the original climb used to take around 30 minutes, it now takes anywhere between five and 25 minutes-the shortest time without stops and the longest if the cable car stops at the midway stations (only on request) on its way to the top.

Long gone are the wooden carriages with first- and second-class seating. Today, passengers can travel up the hill on modern air-conditioned trains that can carry 100 passengers at a time. Once at the top station, visitors can step onto viewing decks, check out a gallery, or enjoy a snack at the café or food court.

Official site: http://www.penanghill.gov.my/index.php/en/

Although the 30-hectare botanical garden is often referred to as "Waterfall Gardens," there's no actual waterfall within the park-the Penang waterfall is nearby but on private property and the only way to visit it is by joining a special monthly tour by a local non-governmental organization.

The park participates in research and conservation programs, but also offers a recreation environment where visitors can take to the trails for jungle trekking or jogging, explore the extensive tropical rainforest , or discover the many rare species of ferns, the herb garden, and the orchidarium housed here. Some of the hiking trails reach all the way up to Penang Hill, over an hour away.

Long-tailed macaques and black giant squirrels, as well as many species of butterflies, call the gardens home.

Most visitors don't realize George Town is a synonym with great street art until they start walking around and stumbling upon magnificent wall paintings as they turn an unsuspecting corner. It all started in 2012 with a Lithuanian artist painting six large murals, and things have grown quickly since then. Today, one of the most Instagranmable spots in town is the large "children on a bicycle" mural.

The art offers the perfect excuse to spend an afternoon walking around Old Town. Muntri Street and Ah Quee streets are particularly rich in murals, including the famous 20-foot-high Little Girl In Blue and Boy on a Bike , a mural that combines a stunning image of a boy wearing a helmet and an actual motorcycle set up against the building.

You don't have to go far to enjoy powdery soft sands and turquoise waters in Panang. In fact, Batu Ferringhi beach is just steps from the heart of the city, a perfect place to escape for a few hours if you want to soak in the sun's rays, try parasailing, or rent a kayak to explore the coastline.

Sitting alongside a busy road, the beach is lined with a mix of great accommodations, live music entertainment venues, and plenty of dining options. There's also a big night market here, where you'll find everything from basic souvenirs to handmade local textiles to Malaysian batik.

Khoo Kongsi is an ornate Chinese clanhouse. Historically, clanhouses were social organizations or partnerships formed by a group of Chinese immigrants that would collaborate and support their mutual welfare. As the largest clanhouse in Malaysia, Khoo Kongsi serves several purposes, including housing a theater, rowhouses for clan members to live in, and a temple where clan members can worship their ancestors. You could think of it as a miniature clan village.

Highly ornate and richly decorated in reds and golds, Khoo Kongsi is famous for its stunning sculptures of dragons and other beasts adorning the roof. Visitors are welcome, and there's a museum about the Khoo Kongsi Clan on the first floor of the temple. The Central Hall on the second floor, decorated with ink frescoes of legendary heroes, holds special celebrations during the Chinese New Year.

Despite being known as the "floating mosque," the white and blue Tanjung Bungah (which features an impressive towering minaret ) is actually built on pilings and stilts along Tanjung Bungah's beach. A beautiful terrace wrapping around parts of the building gives a 360-degree panoramic view over the open sea and the city of Penang.

If you arrive during high tide, the mosque does appear to float and offers the best photo opportunities. Outside of prayer times, you'll be offered a free tour of the inside.

Luxury Hotels:

• With a lobby resembling a modern art museum, the G Hotel Kelawai is Penang's most cutting-edge luxury hotel. Stylish rooms and suites have a contemporary vibe. Beds are comfy with high-thread-count linens and quality mattresses. If you're traveling with kids, there are interconnected rooms available. Amenities include three stylish restaurants, including on the rooftop. Here, you'll also find an infinity swimming pool with panoramic city views. The hotel's location on bustling Jalan Kelawai street is also appealing. It's near numerous attractions, restaurants, and shops.
• Hotel Equatorial Penang is another luxury option in a secluded location. The hotel sits on top of a hill about 10 minutes from the airport and a 20-minute drive from George Town. Choose from 412 rooms and suites, each elegantly furnished. Rooms have large windows with city, mountain, landmark, or pool views. On-site you'll find a few different restaurants, including one that does Chinese fare and another serving Japanese. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, tennis and squash courts, and a fitness center.
• Seven Terraces sits on one of Penang's most intact heritage streets in the center of George Town and walking distance from all its top attractions. The historic hotel is made up of seven Anglo Chinese terrace homes from the 19th-century. The rooms and suites have an elegant vibe and period decor. On-site amenities include a restaurant, free parking, and airport transport.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• For a very good-value luxury stay try The Light Hotel Penang . Rooms and suites come in a number of different categories. Book the Premier floors for access to the Executive Lounge. The hotel is family-friendly and offers things to do for children. Breakfast is also included in the rate. You'll also find a swimming pool, spa, steam room, and workout room on-site.
• Cheong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion is a George Town property in a grand old mansion in the historic district. The rooms and suites here are spacious and decorated in period style. The family-friendly hotel has some kid-focused amenities, like children's TV networks and kids' menus at the restaurant. There is also a swimming pool with sun loungers on-site and bike rentals. Breakfast is complimentary.
• For a boutique mid-range hotel check out Campbell House . It has just 12 rooms done up in colonial style. The location in the heart of China Town in George Town is also excellent, and the hotel is walking distance from many attractions. Breakfast is included in the rate, walking tours of the city can be arranged, and there is a rooftop terrace to soak up the views of Penang.

Budget Hotels :

• Tune Hotel George Town Penang is a top budget choice. The very affordable hotel is in a central locale and has small but tidy rooms with TVs and safes. They also provide bottled water. Car hire can be arranged at the hotel. Other amenities include 24-hour check-in and security.
• Also try Reunion Residence for a good-value hotel. In the heart of George Town, it has just nine rooms, but these have an almost luxe vibe and are pretty spacious. There is free Wi-Fi and parking, and airport transport can be arranged.
• Walking distance from George Town's top attractions, HelicoNia Hotel is another budget option. Colorful rooms come in six different categories, including options for families traveling with kids. Rooms have balconies, as well as blackout curtains and work desks. There is 24-hour check-in, and if you need to store luggage, this is also an option.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

See More of Malaysia : Malaysia is a country of contrasts, a place where nature, history, and religion are part of everything. To learn more about the many things the country has to offer, take a look at our article, Best Places to Visit in Malaysia . If you're in the mood for a relaxing holiday, sand and coastlines await on the best beaches in Malaysia . For more on Malaysia's capital and the many exciting things to see and do, check out our article on the Top Tourist Attractions in Kuala Lumpur .

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60 Unmissable Things to Do in Penang: the Ultimate 2024 Penang Travel Guide

Here's a list of all the quintessential things to do in Penang as compiled after 10+ years living on the island. Don't trust any other website: this is the ultimate list you need to plan your perfect holiday on Malaysia's hippest island.

Penang is a small island, but it packs in a big number of great travel experiences. From peeking above the skyline from the top of 200-meters-high KOMTAR , to browsing the charming UNESCO-inscribed heritage streets of the city of George Town, admiring some of Asia’s best street art, relaxing on a beach , trendy Penang cafes, famous Penang restaurants , or losing yourself into a tropical jungle, “Penang has it all”, as locals like to say.

Here I’ve compiled  60 of my favourite things to do in Penang , all things I’ve personally done in my 13+ years living here. They include the most popular Penang attractions as well as ideas for where to go in Penang to get off the beaten track and see some interesting places. Trust me: you won’t find a more comprehensive & free Penang travel guide online!

I hear you: deciding what places to visit in Penang can be tough as there are so many choices of Penang attractions, but this article is the best place where to have a quick start and arrive with a clear idea of where to go in Penang so that you can hit the ground running.

The suggestions in my below Penang travel blog are organized into sections based on location and type of activities. You’ll have a George Town and Penang Hill section, a Famous Penang Attractions section, and an Offbeat Things to Do in Penang section for those who know the island well and want to experience something different.

To find out how to map out the below attractions for your visit, please start by seeing my articles on what to do in Penang in 3 days and visit George Town in 48 Hours . And if you are a night owl, here is a list of the best things to do in Penang at night .

Article Contents

Penang Travel Essentials

• Use Klook to get discounts and great deals for a lot of activities around Penang. I use it myself all the time.
• If you are looking to rent an apartment in Penang, start by reading my article on the best Penang Airbnbs .
• Penang has some great 5-star hotels and inexpensive boutique hotels for a special stay. But you can also find some great Penang Budget Hotels that are a great bang for your buck
• If you are a backpacker on a budget, I have a complete guide to backpacking in Penang
• If you are short on time, consider taking this half-day tour or this heritage tour .
• If you want a private car to take you around, check out this link
• There is much to learn about Penang food and Penang breakfast . There are some great cooking classes and food tours, like this and this street food jaunt
• If you are coming to Penang from Kuala Lumpur, check out this guide to know all the best ways to travel to Penang.
• If you want to discover the offbeat side of Penang, check out my complete guide to Balik Pulau .
• Likewise, there are many attractions in Seberang Perai that few people ever see.

When to Travel to Penang

Penang island lays in the tropical zone and is a destination you can visit year-round, regardless of the rainy season — roughly between September and December, but truth be told it never really rains all day, and it brings some respite to the heat.

But there are best months to visit Penang, for sure, depending specifically on the different festivals and religious celebrations you may witness. I have written a dedicated article to help you choose the best time to visit Penang .

And here you go, the list of the 60 Best Things to Do in Penang!

Best Things to Do in George Town, Penang

1 survey penang from the top of komtar.

At 232-meters of height, KOMTAR is the highest building in Penang and was extended in 2015 to reach 65 levels of height. I have written a guide to the many things to do at KOMTAR , the most popular of which is taking an elevator to the top floor to enjoy a walk on the Rainbow Skywalk, the highest glass bridge in Asia — not something you’ll want to try if you suffer vertigo. If you don’t, you may as well consider trying the Gravityz, an obstacle course with ziplines perched right outside one of KOMTAR’s top floors, and one of the highest sports platforms in all of Asia.

You can buy discounted Gravityz tickets on KLOOK here .

The views above George Town and Penang island from The TOP at Komtar are sublime, and the best time to come is right before sunset when the sun goes down, and the lights of the city flare up below you. There’s a restaurant here if you thought of bringing a date for a very special meal.

You can get discounted tickets for The TOP using this link — a good idea to avoid lines, especially on weekends.

2 Lose Yourself in Little India

In a way, Little India is the heart of George Town, set between Padang Kota and the Esplanade on one side, the Butterworth ferry on the other, all encased by the backpacker enclave of Chulia Street . There are many cool things to see and do in Penang Little India , from trinkets shops to some of the best Indian food island-wide. If you are craving for samosas, masala dosa, tandoori chicken, and all sorts of southern and northern Indian delicacies, you’ll certainly find more than a restaurant to tickle your fancy — and budget. Don’t miss Nasi Kandar , Penang local rice with curries, as Little India has some of the best.

Want to visit Little India on an atmospheric trishaw ride? Check out this 3 hours tour of George Town .

Don’t forget that Little India also has some important shrines, like the Sri Maha Mariamman temple, one of Penang’s main Indian shrines, and the Nagore Dargha Sheriff, the oldest Indian-Muslim shrine built in Penang. A visit to the last songkok-maker (traditional Muslim skullcaps) and the many goldsmiths here can provide hours, if not days, of exploration and entertainment. One district you shouldn’t miss.

3 Check out the famous Penang Street Art

Like it or not, Penang island has become better known for its Penang street art than its heritage. Well, what to do… we understand the modern man’s obsession with belonging and the Gram… The very first “murals” were a series of 50-something iron-rod caricatures realized to spruce up the most historical corners of the recently UNESCO-inscribed old George Town, but street art in Penang really exploded in 2012 after Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic created the “Mirror of George Town” series for the George Town Festival.

The 9 murals and installations depicted scenes of life on the island: the most famous today, “Little Children on a Bicycle”, was voted by the British newspaper the Guardian as one of the world’s best pieces of street art in 2013. The Insta-craze started shortly afterwards: it’s constantly repainted on the farther end of Armenian Street, where on weekends, hordes of tourists local and foreign literally queue up to get the same ol’ shot next to it like other millions of people have done before. Creativity, anyone?

I do believe that the commercialization and gentrification of Penang and the murals have ruined the local art scene , but some locals think otherwise. Regardless, any visit to George Town cannot be complete without having browsed at least a few of these popular murals. The wish is that the artworks would push tourists to understand and delve deeper into Penang’s history, but that’s, unfortunately, not something the average Joe on holiday wants. So go with an open mind and you know what to expect. Again, some of the art is stunning — it’s just us locals who have had enough, ahahah.

4 Try Penang Food at a Hawker Food Court

Penang was a food paradise well before Lonely Planet voted it as the best foodie destination in 2014. The variety and quality of Penang hakwer food (meaning, sold from a street cart, or inside of a hawker center, also called a food court) is mind-blowing and you really need time to get to try it all. I have written an article that lists the essential Penang food to get you started that’s a great help for those who don’t know what to eat here. But the best way is to simply trust your nose and gut, and go for what tickles your nostrils and eyes.

Even remaining in George Town, the choice is endless: from Chinese noodles of different kinds, like the popular char koaey teow, tasty curry mee , wan than mee, to Indian food and Malay nasi kandar, you won’t have to go far from your accommodation to find some great eats.

5 Visit the Clan Jetties

Set right on the water, the ancestral homes of the immigrant Chinese workers during Malaya’s colonial times have become somewhat of a tourist trap (avoid Chew Jetty on weekends), but they are a very scenic place, and a real opportunity to understand how life was in old Penang. History says that the Clan Jetties — each one called with one of the popular surnames of migrants from China, such as Tan, Chew, and Lee — were built to cleverly avoid paying a land tax imposed by the British colonial rulers. In fact, these big wooden homes are made on stilts over the water, so that their residents could have a reason not to pay the tax.

There has been a big deal of commercial gentrification going on here which someone called UNESCOcide , but a visit to the Clan Jetties really is a must. The homes have barely changed in a century, and the charm of walking above creaky wooden planks has remained unchanged. Until a few years ago, it was most charming to come here at night and soak the atmosphere, but as of late, the residents have imposed a 9 pm curfew to have some much-needed peace and quiet. Please respect that, but by all means, come here for a stroll — it’s within walking distance from the end of Armenian Street, where some of the most known Penang street murals are.

Want to get more out of this experience? Try this Penang self-guided audio tour , which includes a lot of history on the clan jetties.

6 Take a Trip on the iconic Penang Ferry

Penang Ferry opened in 1894 as the only link between Penang island and the railway to Singapore. Believe it or not, it’s still operating despite the two bridges connecting Penang island to Seberang Perai — the mainland part of Penang state.

Penang Ferry, now under the administration of Rapid Penang, remains a very romantic and interesting way to reach George Town for the first time. It’s a no-frills trip over a very basic ferry that reaches Penang in about 20 minutes — don’t expect any luxury, and bring a little sense of adventure.

Even if the original fleet has been substituted in the midst of 2020, this is the most interesting way to travel between the Malaysian mainland at Butterworth and George Town. I have already written a complete guide to taking the Penang Ferry so you may find all the timings, costs and details on that page. Rest assured that by floating across the Straits Sea, the view of George Town’s ever-growing skyline right in front of you, is an experience to have at least once on a visit to Penang island.

7 Visit one of Penang’s Night Markets

Food, trinkets, and cheery people: what’s best doing on an evening, after your fill of great Penang food such as the famous Penang Laksa? Night markets are simple yet celebrated places where you can get away from tourists and have a more down-to-earth local experience. This article tells you about the best Penang night markets , when they open, where they are, and what you can buy there. It’s best to go on a light stomach, so that you may enjoy a bowl of local food as you browse for home appliances — souvenirs are not sold around here.

8 Go for a Trishaw Ride

Trishaws were the main form of transportation in old Penang, and today, the 200-something last remaining trishaw drivers are a real living heritage. It may be a bit touristy, but sitting for a half hour or more as the man cycles you around town, oftentimes dispensing some insider secrets that only street-savvy men like himself know, is a delightful Penang experience.

To make sure you get a fair price and a trishaw at the best time to suit your holiday (consider that right before sunset, let’s say starting at 6.30 pm, is a very good time to see George Town switch gears into the night), we recommend you book your trishaw ride in advance using KLOOK at this link . Avoid surprises and get the best bang for your buck.

9 Have a night out at one of Penang’s famous speakeasy bars

We have already compiled a list of 30-something things to do in Penang at night , and visiting a speakeasy bar is definitely a good one. Fancy finding your drink by hitting a Wing Chun dummy like Ip Man, pushing a hidden partition in a dimly-lit shopfront, or maybe even entering through a refrigerator? Well, Penang has got you covered.

Exactly what it means, “speakeasy” hints at the world of hidden bars and secretly hushed entry passwords. The whole thing has been done to death in Penang, in the sense that now there are more secret bars than one can handle, BUT some of them are pretty good for a chilled night, and most make a fun surprise for friends who have come to meet you from outside town.

The first to launch the trend was Magazine 63 , an Old-China-themed bar with waiters dressed like Chinese coolies and booze served in traditional rice jars. There are many now, the most notable being Out of Nowhere, accessed by a refrigerator, the cool Backdoor Bodega, a really small and funky place that doesn’t sell drinks, but drink-themed pins, and 12 Senses, with its fun martial art-themed tricky entry stunt. Definitely try one if you feel like having a night out.

10 Party with Backpackers on Chulia Street and Love Lane

Once the thriving home of the Indian community of Penang and a lane for mistresses and prostitutes, the intersection of Lebuh Chulia and Love Lane is Penang’s equivalent to any cookie-cutter backpacker haven on Southeast Asia’s Banana Pancake Trail. It’s certainly OK for a night out: you’ll find plenty of bars and some of Penang’s most famous western restaurants , all peppered with coin laundromats and everything else a foreigner needs to feel closer to his kind and the comforts of home. But if it’s a local experience you are looking for, you may better look elsewhere — the majority of locals don’t really go drink here.

This said the place is OK for a stroll, grabbing a bite in a casual, shabby-chic atmosphere, and meeting travelers passing through.

11 Check out a Museum (or even 25, if you fancy…)

After street art, George Town has seen a proliferation of… museums. Yes: and there are more than we can remember. From the Wonderfood Museum, with its quirky larger-than-life replicas of Penang’s most famous dishes — a good place to go in Penang with Kids —, to the Ghost Museum and the Insta-focused 3D Trick Art Museum, where you’ll be able to reach the highest level of selfie enlightenment, the choice is endless — and often poor.

If there is one museum that we feel like recommending that has to be Penang House of Music , set inside of KOMTAR. Curated by local musician and connoisseur Paul Augustin, the House of Music offers a unique insight into another of Penang’s main creations: popular music. Did you know that P. Ramlee, the father of Malaysian pop music, was born in Penang? His legacy has inspired decades of Malaysian rock and roll, hard rock, rock kapak, metal and punk, and you’ll find all the roots here. Starting from traditional bangsawan to the age of the radio, the British influence, and the arrival of rock and roll, Penang House of Music is a delightful introduction to all things that rock in Malaysia. Don’t miss it.

Famous Penang Tourist Attractions you Should Visit

Given its rich history, Penang has a lot of important buildings, temples, and clan houses that testify to its rich ethnic and historical legacy. Many are in George Town, but other parts of the island also treasure some very stunning places you should try to visit.

12 Kek Lok Si Temple

Penang’s most striking temple is Kek Lok Si, perched on a side of Penang Hill, and hosting a 36.57mt-high statue of Goddess of Mercy Kwan Yin. It’s the largest Buddhist Temple in Malaysia and one of the biggest in Southeast Asia, and it’s particularly nice to visit right before Chinese New Year (in Jan/Feb every year) when it’s decorated with hundreds of beautiful red lanterns and colourful LED lights. For more information, read our ultimate guide to visiting Kek Lok Si Temple , and don’t forget to stop at Air Itam market to try one of Penang’s best laksa .

You can visit Kek Lok Si comfortably as part of this tour of George Town.

13 Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The Blue Mansion of Penang tycoon millionaire Cheong Fatt Tze is a beautiful example of Straits Chinese architecture and one of George Town’s most iconic buildings. You can come here for a tour, but also eat at their fine dining restaurant Indigo, or stay overnight in one of their beautifully decorated rooms — certainly one very atmospheric way to spend a night in town.

The place is super photogenic and was used as a set for many films, which as of late include the popular mahjong scene in the blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians .

You can book a discounted tour of the mansion, a night stay, and included breakfast spread via our partners at KLOOK. Click here for details

14 Penang Peranakan Mansion

This green-hued heritage house in Little India is the place to come learn about the mixed ancestry of the Peranakan, or Baba-Nyonya — people of mixed Chinese and Malay blood. This 19th-century mansion has been now turned into a very interesting museum housing 1000-something objects and furniture of the time. This building also contains the Penang residence and office of Kapitan Cina Chung Keng Kwee, who normally lived in Taiping , where you can see exquisite Chinese carved wooden doors and Scottish ironworks. A very interesting time journey to learn about a lesser-known Malaysian culture, and a very atmospheric place that, no wonder, is often hired out for events or used by local photographers to set up pre-wedding shoots in Penang .

Want to know more about Penang heritage with a knowledgeable local guide? Check out this perfect half-day tour .

15 Fort Cornwallis and the Esplanade

Perched on the easternmost corner of George Town along the walkable Esplanade, Fort Cornwallis was built in 1786 century by the East India Company helmed by Captain Francis Light to protect the island from attacks by the pirates of Kedah, on the opposite side of the coastline. It’s the largest standing fort found in Malaysia, although the cannons that can still be seen here never engaged in combat during its history. There is also a lighthouse next to it, the second oldest in Malaysia, which is an interesting sight to see.

These days the Fort has transformed into one of Georg Town’s best spots for an atmospheric drink. There’s a 5RM entry fee, but if you have a drink at any of the several bars and bistros, keep your receipt and you’ll exit free of charge. There’s also the fine-dining restaurant Kota where you can get a variety of foods, from high-tea to tapas, Western and Asian cuisine. The menu’s speciality is Baba-Nyonya style, and the ambience is casual chic — we believe it’s a better choice for a special dinner than an expensive afternoon drink.

Next to the fort is Padang Kota, a well-tended grass expanse next to a sea-facing walking promenade and Penang’s impressive colonial City Hall. This is a very nice place to come for a stroll or while away time at sunset. Many Malay families come here for picnics, too, so you may join in the fun.

16 Visit Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi

The grandest Chinese clan house in Malaysia sits inside a courtyard off Lebuh Cannon and is one of Penang’s most important sights. It is a part of the goh tai seh (five big clans), the Khoos from Xiamen in the Fujian province of China, that formed the backbone of the Chinese immigrant community in Peninsular Malaysia. Located at the center of granite-paved Cannon Square, the clan house’s intricately carved pillars and gilded curved roof with four towering stone carvings are a real sight to behold.

These days, Khoo Kongsi can be visited with a small entry fee, and it is also often used as the backdrop for events such as lion dance on stilts or Chinese opera and martial arts showcases when access to Cannon Square is free of charge.

17 Take a peek at Southeast Asia’s Oldest Anglican Church

Sitting at the center of a well-manicured park at the end of Kapitan Keling Road, St. George Church is a 19th-century Anglican church and the oldest found in Southeast Asia. Opened in 1819, it celebrated 200 years of uninterrupted service in 2019.

A visit is very recommended: the church has an interesting neoclassical facade resembling a Greek temple topped by a pointed tower upon which the cross dominates above the quaint green surroundings. If you go inside, you’ll be able to walk on a mezzanine and see the whole building from a vantage position. The ancient organ here can still make some proud sounds, so try to time your visit during a service.

18 Visit Penang’s stunning Town Hall and City Hall

Set on the left side of Padang Kota, Penang City Hall dominates over the Esplanade with its white-washed Victorian facade, neo-baroque colonnades and arched windows, and a characteristic rooftop silhouette. Opened in 1903, today the Town Hall houses the Penang Island City Council offices and was built to expand the space of the adjacent Town Hall, completed in the 1880s. The Town Hall is George Town’s oldest municipal building, and back in the day also used to be the place where the ruling Europeans congregated for their social events. In 1999, the Town Hall was one of the settings for the movie Anna and the King .

Walking along this road today, you can’t avoid feeling a sense of grandeur as the two buildings, still in perfect condition, exude a prominent sense of history and are a delight to photograph, too.

19 Take a Stroll on Armenian Street

Armenian Street has become George Town’s tourist center, lined with all sorts of little trinket shops, art galleries, cafes, and the infamous “Little Children on a Bicycle” mural jotted at one of its ends. But come after dark, and the place still retains the charms it had just a decade ago: a beautiful narrow street punctuated by some of George Town’s most important clan houses and temples. Not counting the charming Armenian Park, a very nice green space to sit on a bench and ponder life passing by for a while.

Penang’s Armenian Street had great historical significance because, after starting as a Malay settlement, in the 19th century it changed into being inhabited by a majority of Armenian and Chinese, giving the area a distinct multi-cultural character that has come to define Penang. It was here that in 1910 Sun Yat-sen organized the Penang Conference in the house that today still functions as his memorial museum in Penang, raising the $8000 which served to topple the Qing Dynasty in China.

Don’t forget to visit the Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi, another beautiful Penang clan house that was recently renovated and has an ample garden and a double-story Chinese-temple-like main building, and the Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple, also known as Poh Hock Seah , that traces back to 1844. Set inside a gated courtyard, this temple testifies to the history of the Penang Riots of 1867, open warfare on the streets that led the British to ban all Chinese clan associations as “secret societies”. On the ground floor of this temple, you can still see the concealed entry of a tunnel that members could use to leave or access the premises undisturbed. On the first floor, a wooden mezzanine towers above the courtyard and there’s a beautiful shrine to the patron deity Sin Long Siang Tay with wooden carvings painted in gold.

The Choo Chay Keong Temple — also fondly called Yap temple — set opposite the Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple on the corner of Cannon street is another remarkable building with intricately carved stone pillars and a striking emerald green gilded rooftop.

20 Pray at the Goddess of Mercy Temple

In George Town proper is the Goddess of Mercy temple on the edge of the very interesting Penang Little India . Fronted by a square where devotees go pray and light up joss sticks, it’s one of George Town’s oldest temples and was built in 1728.

Legend says that during the Japanese occupation of Penang in World War II, no bomb could ever destroy it because of the goddess Kwan Yin. Today it’s a great place in George Town to come see Chinese devotees pray and observe a whole world of characters, from the long-term beggars to the Hare Krishnas who bring them free food, to the old aunties selling joss sticks and predictions for the Chinese New Year ahead. It’s also very photogenic, too, with its open square and two ash burners that tower in front of the gates like black stone guardians.

21 See one of the world’s largest reclined Buddhas

Penang wouldn’t be the smorgasbord of cultures it is if it didn’t have at least one Thai Buddhist temple, and the Wat Chaiya Mangalaram in Pulau Tikus is the most important, oldest Malaysian Siamese temple in the state. The main feature here is the 32-meter-long reclined Buddha statue, one of the largest in the world, that lays over a columbarium where the burnt ashes of the cremated are housed. There are stupas and other colorful statues of Yaksha and other mythical creatures.

The temple is a focal point of Thai celebrations such as Songkran and Wesak Day in honour of Lord Buddha. Just in front of it is the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple, another very important in Penang, with its striking collection of Buddha statues that imitate the Buddha figure as depicted around the world, from Cambodia to Afghanistan to India and beyond.

22 Soak the colonial charms of Beach Street

Beach Street runs from Fort Cornwallis all along the coast, encasing George Town, and historically was one of the oldest streets in George Town. Established in 1786, it quickly became one of the most thriving streets for business in old Penang. Part of that legacy is of course still visible today in the string of beautiful buildings — most converted into banks — that line both sides of the street, making it a magnet for couples on their pre-wedding photoshoots. A few notable to remember are India House, the Beach Street Fire Station, the Whiteaways Arcade, the George Town Dispensary, and the Khoo Si Toon Keng Tong Kongsi, a lesser clan house of the Khoos.

In the past few years, the street parade Occupy Beach Street came to enliven this area on Sundays, bringing in all sorts of arts and stalls where locals sold their wares. One of the main access points to  Penang Little India  is also along this famous road.

23 Experience Islam at the Masjid Kapitan Keling

The Masjid Kapitan Keling in central George Town is a special mosque, and not only because of its magnificent black domes, sleek architectural style, and white walls. It’s mainly because it was built in the 19th century by Indian Muslim traders in the multi-ethnic port of Penang. Its significance within the UNESCO-inscribed old city of George Town is that this was the first Islamic institution built in the city’s Tamil neighbourhood. “Keling”, in fact, was a Malay term to indicate persons of Indian origin, and even if today it is considered a racist slur, at the time it wasn’t.

You can visit the Masjid Kapitan Keling mosque outside of praying times when volunteers will be happy to show you around and answer your questions. Penang is very hot, but don’t worry, for if you will arrive without proper long clothes, the volunteers will be offering you a tunic to cover up and be allowed inside the Masjid’s grounds. Please don’t get impatient if some may go beyond their duty trying to convince you to convert to Islam.

24 Climb to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Waterfall Temple

Set on a flank of Penang Hill in close proximity to Moongate and the Botanic Gardens, the Waterfall Temple, with its striking white gopuram, may be the most beautiful of Penang’s Indian temples. For this reason, it is often the backdrop of pre-wedding photoshoots in Penang.

This temple is the epicentre of the dramatic Tamil festival of Thaipusam, when local devotees, with lips and cheeks pierced by skewers in honour of the Lord of War Murugan, walk barefoot from the centre of Penang Little India  and end their pilgrimage here. This is a very busy and yet spectacular time to visit, but you can come any other time, and enjoy the peace of the surroundings sheltered by nature.

25 Tuck toes in the sand at Batu Ferringhi

On the northern side of Penang, Batu Ferringhi beach was once a hippie hangout and today harbors most of the island’s high-end hotels and resorts. The area is frankly touristy and overdeveloped, but the beach, which is public but accessed from the hotels, is still one of Penang’s most visited — albeit not the cleanest among all other 20-something Penang beaches .

Still, I think you should visit Batu Ferringhi at least once, maybe to have a sundowner at one of Penang’s famous beachside hotel bars, or even better, to catch a purple Penang sunset this part of the island is very famous for. Leave the watersports for the Arabian tourists and you’ll be fine.

READ MORE Best Hotels in Batu Ferringhi

26 Marvel at Penang Floating Mosque

The Floating Mosque is Tanjung Bungah’s most iconic sight. Opened in 2007 and built on stilts over the sea with great choreographic effect, it came to be this way to accommodate the larger number of Muslims where there was no space on land. Non-Muslims can appreciate this mosque best at sunrise and sunset when its prominent minaret and colorful rooftop glitter against all the hues of pink, red and yellow.

27 Play Monkey at ESCAPE Theme Park

This theme park in  Teluk Bahang  is perfect for a full day of action-charged activities. It’s a beautiful set of ziplines (pulleys connected to stainless steel cables, and attached to the trees) set into a patch of rainforest for maximum play effect. Kids and adults can come here to play together, climbing platforms and swinging like monkeys across some of Teluk Bahang’s most pristine canopy. Escape also has a newer park, too, Escape Adventureplay, that’s a good alternative to the beach, with water slides and all those fun water activities. The park has the world’s longest mat waterslide, a staggering 1,111 meters long and a full three minutes long, suspended among the trees.

It’s open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm and closed each Monday for maintenance. Check more on Escape’s Official Website There are several categories of tickets and online discounts, starting at RM97 per child up to 12 years old and seniors, while adults pay RM147.  If you want an RM17 discount , you can buy your Escape Tickets online from our partner Klook  at this link .

28 Learn about World War II History at Penang War Museum

Malaysia’s own War Museum  in the southern Penang district of Batu Maung testifies the Penang’s history of occupation by the Japanese during World war II. But even if the museum’s management doesn’t like to admit it, Penang War Museum is better known around the world for having been portrayed in several documentaries as a “haunted museum”.

These are certainly urban legends, but what is true is that Penang really succumbed to marauding Japanese troops right at this fort, that the British built on Bukit Hantu (literally and ironically, it translates to ‘Ghost Hill’). National Geographic featured Penang War Museum among the most haunted places in Asia, telling the spooky story of merciless Japanese colonel Suzuki and the prisoners of war he tortured and killed here – the bullet holes in the walls serve as a grim reminder.

But beyond the spooks, a visit to the Penang War Museum today should be a good lesson to learn about the resilience of local Penang people against the invaders. It also offers a 100 Feet Underground Tunnel that’s guaranteed to test your nerves.

29 Have a Go at the Snake Temple

This temple situated only 3km away from Penang Airport was built in 1850 in honour of Chor Soo Kong, a famous Buddhist monk and healer. Devotees come here as far as Singapore, Taiwan, and China to pray to him, but the place has become somewhat of a tacky tourist attraction because of the tame snakes that are found there. Legend says that Chor Soo Kong used to shelter snakes inside of this temple and that after his death, they started to come on their own. What is true, however, is that a few snakes are always hanging on wooden poles set at the sides of the main altar. Don’t come with high expectations, but by all means, the place makes for a good photo opportunity.

30 See Penang Avatar Secret Garden

Did you know that Penang has a place that looks like the Tree of Souls of the blockbuster movie Avatar? It’s Penang Avatar Secret Garden in Tanjung Tokong, a place that has become a very popular attraction. The main thing to see is the landscaped park set on the hill behind the Thai Pak Koong temple. Its centrepiece is, of course, the big “Tree of Souls” decorated with LED strings. It comes alive as soon as darkness falls. The tree soars above a life-sized checkerboard, and there are stairs and a wooden boardwalk to complete a quick circuit around the tree and back down. I have written an ultimate guide to visiting Avatar Penang Secret Garden you will find very useful.

31 Take a dip at Monkey Beach

Perched on the westernmost corner of Penang Island in the beautiful Penang National Park , Monkey Beach is one of Penang’s most popular beaches. It takes its name from the population of macaques that live in the forest behind the crescent of sand, but these days you’ll probably see more day-trippers than primates, to be honest. The tourists have brought development, and there are a couple of bars here like Lazy Boys Cafe and Tiger Monkey Bar & Leisure where you can buy cocktails and stay for sunset — and also camping, too, at Lazyboys, where you can also rent A-framed huts. Swimming technically is not allowed all over Penang because of the box jellyfish hazard which can be deadly, but people usually dip at Monkey Beach. Do so at your own risk.

You can hike to Monkey Beach from the entrance of Penang National Park (remember that a group of more than 10 people need to get a guide from park headquarters) or, if you are unfit, lazy, or in a rush, can get on one of the shared boats that ply the route as soon as they fill up. They should cost RM50 per trip to share among passengers.

If you want to do it all in comfort from George Town, we recommend taking this Monkey Beach tour on KLOOK that offers pick-up from your hotel.

READ MORE – Ultimate Guide to Visiting Monkey Beach

Best Things to Do on Penang Hill

Straddling the central part of the island, Penang Hill was a colonial hill station and is the best place to feel the nature of Penang today. Hikers will love leaving George Town to spend hours, if not days, trawling the dozens of paths that crisscross the hill. For those who just want to have a trip to the top, a funicular train whisks visitors up in a few minutes. Read our ultimate list of the best things to do on Penang Hill , too.

32 Enjoy Penang Nature at the Botanic Gardens

At the bottom of Penang Hill, and within walking distance from Moon gate, are Penang Botanic Gardens founded in 1794. They are said to be the closest gardens to a city centre in the world, as they are only about 10min drive away from George Town — you can take a Grab car there . It’s a perfect place to stroll and observe some of the region’s, and the world’s, diverse flowers and trees.

A circular paved road goes around the Gardens and is popular with local joggers. You can take a walk and spend time in the many gardens and greenhouses that host a variety of endemic plants. For those who want to have a quick experience of the forest, a staircase leaves the gardens to Station 46, a popular rest stop for hikers. It’s a climb and you’ll get drenched in sweat for sure, but the views of the trees are superb.

33 Take the famous Funicular Train up Penang Hill

The original trains that have whisked passengers from the bottom to the top station of Penang Hill since 1923 have been upgraded in 2011, but getting up this hill station by train remains one of Penang’s main attractions. The train takes less than ten minutes to go up, sometimes stopping at the Middle Station en route, where in the past it was necessary to switch trains. The views over the thicket, Air Hitam and George Town in the distance are unique from this rail track. To be honest, at 30RM the ticket is quite steep for tourists, but the other option is walking up — and that will take you more than two hours one way. Here is our ultimate guide to visiting Penang Hill.

You can buy train tickets online on Klook to save time at the bottom of the hill where queues are normal, especially on weekends.

34 Fly across Penang’s Oldest Forest on a zipline

Penang Hill has a very cool zip line, the 5-course Flight of the Colugo zipline. Developed to give guests a feel for one of Penang’s oldest rainforest canopies — a staggering 130 million years old — this new attraction sends visitors gliding above the thicket like flying lemurs (the “colugo”, as the name suggests).

The complete Flight of the Colugo experience consists of a 5 zipline course which can be completed in about an hour. The cost is RM105 per person and includes equipment rental and guides. The “Honeymoon Zip” is a quick teaser on a single tandem zipline, and costs RM32 including tax. It’s an exciting 80mt-long single tandem zipline over a 5mt-high drop that gives guests one first look at the beautiful rainforest.

35 …and then visit the rest of the Habitat

Flight of the Colugo zipline is a part of the Habitat, an interesting forest walk along a colonial irrigation path that crisscrosses Penang Hill’s best-preserved patch of rainforest. I have already written an article on 7 good reasons why you should visit the Habitat Penang Hill but in brief, it has Penang’s highest viewpoint at the Curtis Crest walkway, and a 230-meter-long canopy walkway, the Langgur Way. It soars 40-meters above the forest floor underneath, and it’s been built entirely tree-friendly, without using any direct rigging of the steel cabins on the tree bark.

You can buy a discounted Habitat entry ticket on KLOOK to avoid queues and save some ringgit.

36 Have a power hike to Station 5 via Moongate

There’s nothing better than hiking to feel the mesmerizing power and sounds of Penang Hill’s forest. A popular Penang Hill hike starts at Moon Gate , the former entrance to a millionaire’s home. You can follow a concrete staircase up to the hill, which we don’t recommend, or strike off on a very interesting side jungle path that is called Wild Boar Trail. I have written a detailed guide on how to hike to Moon Gate Station 5 , a popular hiker rest stop, via the Wild Boar Trail.

Moderately fit people should complete the hike in 30–45 minutes one way, allowing some time to rest and enjoy nature and the free gym machines at Station 5. It’s best then not to strike off later than 5.30 pm to return down to Moon Gate before dark.

37 Take the Penang Hill Hiking Trail that Only Locals Know About

Tourists take the funicular train up, while local hikers love to get up to Penang Hill , or at least to the Middle Station, on foot. There is one beautiful hike I have described in this article that will take you from the Hye Keat Estate up to Penang Hill Middle Station.

The trek is completely paved and it’s possible to do it also by bicycle or small motorbike, but we believe that walking it is absolutely the best way to go. The views from the top are amazing, spanning from Kek Lok Si Temple to George Town and across the Straits Sea to Bukit Mertajam and Kedah state .

38 Find a slice of Myanmar on Penang Hill

You would think you just stumbled upon the Golden Rock of Kyaiktiyo in Myanmar, but no, you are on Penang Hill , walking from Hye Keat Estate to the Middle Station. You can’t miss them: take a side path on your right, and you’ll soon find yourself on a side of the hill filled with dozens of golden Burmese stupas. They are part of a small Buddhist Temple here, and are a very nice hidden spot to visit on Penang Hill — and tell your friends you have been to Burma instead!

Things to Do in Penang for Nature Lovers

39 discover penang national park.

The northwestern corner of Penang island is enveloped in the thick jungle and beaches of the world’s smallest national park at Teluk Bahang . A visit here offers a few interesting hiking trails, monkeys, beaches, and a lot more, including one of the world’s few meromictic lakes — meaning a lake where fresh and saltwater don’t mix but coexist in layers.

Penang National Park is a perfect place to see and experience the wild side of Penang, the other side of the moon compared to the hectic streets of George Town.

40 Look for some strange and cute Malaysian Animals

The jungles of Penang hide at least 13 species of Malaysian animals including rare ones such as the flying lemur, the Sunda slow loris and the giant red squirrel. Some of them, like the long-tail macaques, are pretty easy to spot, but you must be very lucky to find others. The Botanic Gardens and Penang Hill are the obvious places to start looking — but remember that, whatever you find, keep your distance and don’t disturb them in their habitat. Most importantly, do not feed monkeys or any other animals. If you do, you are just an idiot tourist who doesn’t know anything about nature and the world beyond a shopping mall, and there are no excuses for your ignorance!

41 Meet a million butterflies at ENTOPIA

Formerly called Penang Butterfly Farm, ENTOPIA is one of Teluk Bahang’s best attractions. Read our full review of ENTOPIA here . In brief offers a much larger space to observe insects, creepy crawlies and other small animals. Take your time to stroll inside Natureland , a living garden vivarium with 15,000-odd free-flying butterflies, or browse the Cocoon , two floors of learning exhibits, and indoor activities all dedicated to insects and bugs. It’s a great place to visit in Penang with kids  but is certainly also educational for people of all ages.

Admission prices are RM69 for non-Malaysian adults, and RM49 for children and seniors, and include an all-day access pass. But we are sure you’d love to use a 10RM discount by buying your Entopia tickets directly from our partner Klook .

42 Enjoy the Rainforest at Taman Rimba

Right next to ENTOPIA is Taman Rimba, a 32-hectare natural park that serves as a great introduction to Penang and Malaysia’s rainforest. The park is equipped with all sorts of picnic areas, a forestry museum, and a decent number of hiking trails, some of which connect with other hiking circuits via Laksamana Hill until Penang Hill. The beauty of Taman Rimba is certainly its lush forest, some of the thickest in Penang. You can consider swimming in one of the many holes here, or bring a tent and camp overnight. Arrange your stay at the park headquarters.

43 Relax at one of Penang’s Best Beaches

Penang is an island, of course: to be frank, Penang beaches are not the best in Southeast Asia, but there are definitely a few hidden gems worth visiting. For example, on the southern side of Penang island, the areas of Balik Pulau and Teluk Kumbar have some quiet, long beaches such as Pantai Pasir Panjang and Gertak Sanggul, with their interesting fishing community and great seafood.

On the northern side of Penang, Batu Ferringhi beach was once a hippie hangout and today harbours most of the island’s high-end hotels and resorts. Penang National park at Teluk Bahang has more opportunities for nature and a few famous beaches like Monkey Beach and Pantai Kerachut, which have a small turtle sanctuary. Read more details on our detailed guide to Penang’s 20 Best Beaches .

44 Visit the Tropical Spice Garden (and take a cooking class)

Set in a beautiful location between the sea and a forested hill, the award-winning Tropical Spice Garden is a collection of tropical plants curated by local artist Rebecca Duckett-Wilkinson. The garden is not only perfect as a location for pre-wedding photography , but also to take your kids on a discovery tour of some of Malaysia, and Southeast Asia’s, rarest species of plants.

Their Poison Garden is a very instructive walk among poisonous plants, whose uses and misuses are richly described with educational panels. We suggest you get an audio tour for yourself and your kids, in order to maximize your fun and learning experience. You can also participate in their guided day or night walks.

Don’t forget the Tropical Spice Garden’s cooking classes, limited to 8 people to maximise learning and give you a hands-on education to create some of Southeast Asia’s best dishes. You can book your spot here.

To enter the Tropical Spice Garden, adults pay RM31 for an audio-tour, while kids up to 12 years old pay RM18. To get your advanced and discounted audio-tour ticket please buy tickets online from our partners at Klook

45 Hike to Penang’s second-tallest peak, Bukit Laksamana

Soaring between Penang Hill and Penang National Park at Teluk Bahang, 805-meters-high Bukit Laksamana is the second-highest peak in Penang and a hiker’s delight. You can start your hike at Taman Rimba, Chin Farm in Batu Ferringhi, or Penang Hill itself. If starting from the northern side of the island, you’ll have to endure a steep incline all the way up to the Laksamana peak. The views from Eagle Point are incredible and worth the sweat and sore muscles.

46 Chase Supertrees at Cherok Tokun Nature Park

Right across the bridge in Bukit Mertajam is Cherok Tokun Nature Park, an expanse of wilderness with a bunch of less-trawled hiking trails. One of the best reasons to come here is to look for one of the four giant trees hidden away in the reserve. Contrary to Penang Hill, Cherok Tokun has some of Penang’s biggest and oldest trees, amazing natural sights that any nature lover wouldn’t want to miss. Don’t forget to check out the other great hiking in Penang Mainland , also called Seberang Perai. Want to explore it more? Stay at one of Bukit Mertajam’s best hotels .

And if you want to know more, our ultimate guide to Cherok Tok Kun has everything you need to know to hike this beautiful nature reserve.

47 Explore Balik Pulau

By far, the island’s most natural and unspoilt area remains Balik Pulau in the southwest corner of Penang. This is where you will find fishing villages, unspoiled beaches, a lot of nutmeg, durian and banana trees, some of Penang’s best and most famous laksa and a pace of life which is the opposite of hectic George Town.

READ MORE — 28 Great Things to Eat, See and Do in Balik Pulau

Balik Pulau is also ideal for cycling and relaxing, and also has a couple of hiking trails, such as the 3-mile circuit at Kalan Pondok Upeh. It’s a good idea to base yourself here if you are looking for a quiet and more natural experience of Penang island.

48 Ride Horses at Countryside Stables

Located in Balik Pulau not far from the serene Malindo Beach, Countryside Stables is a horse farm where guests can visit and ride horses in some of Penang’s most beautiful surroundings. The farm has miniatures horses, Pure Bred Arabian Horses, Polo Pony, Thai, Myanmar and Malaysian ponies, donkeys and deer, and is a perfect place to spend a day out with your family and children or, if you are a rider, come enjoy a stroll on horseback.

49 Enjoy a waterfall

Penang’s jungles are dotted by a number of beautiful waterfalls where you can take a refreshing dip. The most famous may be almost vertical Titi Kerawang Fall in Balik Pulau , but there are others around the island. The Penang Botanic Gardens waterfall, which used to be one of the most famous in Malaysia, and is unfortunately closed to the public today. But you can still go check out the very beautiful Chin Farm waterfall near Batu Ferringhi, or the 25-meter-high fall behind the Mutiara Indah apartment in Bukit Gambir.

Offbeat Things to Do in Penang

If you have arrived all the way here, you certainly have seen and done a lot of things in Penang and you need something lesser-known and refreshing. The following are a few ideas we consider perfect for those who want to scratch the surface and dig deeper into Penang than most.

50 Take a trip to Bukit Mertajam

Few people know that right across the Penang bridge is Bukit Mertajam (fondly called “BM” by locals), a very overlooked town that has a lot of great things to do and amazing food to eat. Don’t forget that BM is a place where you can experience Penang life without the beautification and massive gentrification that has spoiled George Town. If you didn’t know much about Bukit Mertajam, I have written an article that lists all the best things to visit and the best food available in this offbeat Seberang Perai town.

51 Visit a Haunted Hotel on top of Penang Hill

The Crag Hotel is a beautiful property set in a stunning location in the secluded northern part of Penang Hill. The Crag Hotel was first opened by the Iranian-Armenian Sarkies Brothers in 1895, was then leased as a boarding building to Penang Uplands School and remained operational until 1977. In 1991 it was used once again as a set for the movie “Indochine”, but since then it has stayed closed — well, abandoned, for you can certainly go visit the premises today.

The latest news was the Crag Hotel was waiting for a much-needed 300-room eco-hotel upgrade which, for the moment, still seems a far-fetched opportunity. Next to the Crag Hotel is also the beautiful building that housed the Penang Uplands school.

Like with every abandoned property in Malaysia, locals believe the place is haunted by ghosts. I’ve heard a man say that a couple of food sellers with no home used to stay here at night, and they lamented hearing muffled cries, something definitely otherworldly. Whether you come here by braving the steep and wild hiking path via Botanic Gardens or Bukit Olivia, or by walking after you get off the Penang Hill Funicular Train, a visit to the Crag Hotel is a dive into old Malaysia — the furniture, the quirky English-written signboards abandoned on the floor, and the larger-than-life abandoned bathrooms, something scary in itself, make a visit to remember.

52 Marvel at Frog Hill, the Jiuzhaigou of Penang

Also called “Bukit Katak”, Frog Hill was an offbeat place in Seberang Perai, the mainland chunk of Penang State, that got famous thanks to the usual work of Instagram hype. Also called Lombong Kampung Guar Petai, Frog Hill Tasek Gelugor, or Guar Perahu, Frog Hill is an old tin mining site where water is collected into a series of pools crisscrossed by red earth ridges. It’s an otherworldly scenery of jagged red rocks emerging from viridian pools. Some people said that Frog Hill is like the “Jiuzhaigou of Penang” — quite an overstatement, but let the locals be proud of their backwoods.

READ MORE — A Complete Guide to Visiting Frog Hill

Frog Hill is absolutely stunning at sunrise, but you gotta get up pretty early to catch it. Indeed Frog Hill is roughly 30 minutes north of Bukit Mertajam , set at the end of a road that goes through a small village called Kampung Jarak Atas. Remember that the road to Frog Hill is not paved and gets often muddy, so don’t come here unprepared in the rainy season — good footwear and sandals you can quickly wash up are essential.

53 Discover Soundmaker and Penang’s underground music

Few people know that Penang had a music history — Malaysia’s most famous singer and actor, P. Ramlee, hails from here — and fewer know that the island has an underground music scene. Set on the first floor of a nondescript building in Bishop street, Soundmaker is the island’s longest-running alternative rock club. From punk to metal, hip-hop and alternative, you’ll find something up your alley here.

Soundmaker is also a good place to go meet Penang’s musicians, especially the owner Cole Yew , a multi-instrumentalist and the man who knows everything that’s rocking in Penang.

54 Pay a visit to the Jewish Cemetery

For a bit of unknown history, Penang Jewish Cemetery , the oldest single Jewish cemetery in Southeast Asia opened in 1805, is a quirk find in Jalan Zainal Abidin. First of all, it proves the existence of a Jewish community from almost as far back as when Penang was colonized, and second, it has some beautiful stone graves and interesting tombstones. The most recent tomb is from 2011, allegedly the last Jewish lineage on Penang island until now.

55 Explore Penang’s Yoga and Health Underworld

Penang may not seem like the right place, but it has quite a few places for yoga and wellness . The most accessible is Wholey Wonder on 61 Jalan Gurdwara, which has a vegan restaurant and yoga studio. Just next door, the garden of Hin Bus Depot hosts the fun acro-yoga sessions (a bunch of very flexible people striking acrobatic yoga poses to introduce the art to passersby) as part of their Sunday Pop-Up Market.

Another well-known studio is Sunalini yoga, set in a George Town shophouse along Hutton Lane. Classes are small and run by enthusiastic iyengar-style yoga, which places attention on detail, precision and alignment in performing the right posture (asanas). The Space, located in the expat-centric area of Tanjung Bunga, is an intimate, cozy studio offering traditional yoga sessions (RM45/US $ 10 for walk-ins), and other special classes such as prenatal and childbirth yoga, stretching sessions, chakra yoga, and yoga for kids. They also run Kundalini Yoga sessions on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 10 am.

56 Shop and Meet Artists at Hin Bus Depot Pop Up Market

This former bus depot has done so much to give a voice and space to Penang and Malaysia’s visual artists. Its rotating art and photo exhibits have definitely filled a hole in the island’s social and cultural life. Not only that, but they also organise a great pop up market (Saturday 11 am- 6 pm and Sunday 11 am- 5 pm) where EVERYONE can set up shop and sell ANYTHING by paying a mere RM44 (USD11) for the space. It’s certainly one of the coolest alternative shopping experiences in Penang .

From second-hand books to plants and flowers, home-made drinks and jewellery, and unique artist postcards there’s something cute, tiny and artsy for everyone at Hin Pop Up Market . And the best thing is, the stalls change mostly every week.

57 Explore Jerejak Island, a former Leper colony that’s too big to dismiss

You certainly have seen it, as it lays like a sleeping crocodile right in front of Queensbay: Jerejak Island. Set between Penang island and the mainland, Jerejak was once a quarantine station during British colonial times and has been staying semi-dormant until now.

A few years ago there was plan to develop it as Penang’s outdoor and recreation hub, but nothing really came to fruition. You can, however, take a ferry over from Bayan Lepas and even overnight at the Jerejak Resort. The island offers a bunch of useless Insta-worthy places such as a rainbow pier, giant swings and bird nests, and a stairway to nothing. What’s good, on the other hand, is trekking and cycling around the island.

58 Explore Penang by Bicycle

It may seem counterintuitive once you have seen Penang’s horrible traffic gridlock, but the island is a good place for cycling, too. For starters, the whole eastern coast from Karpal Singh Drive all the way to Penang Airport is connected by a cycle lane, whose two trunks connect at Queensbay Mall. A more experienced cyclist may want to attempt a full 83-kilometer round island circuit: if you are not that dedicated, you may break down this route into the Northern circuit, going from George Town all the way to Batu Ferringhi following the coastal route, or explore the Southern shore at Gertak Sanggul.

The interior of Balik Pulau is covered with paddy fields and small country roads that are a delight to cycle. If getting there on a bike sounds daunting, check out the Audi Homestay, a nice place to base yourself in Balik Pulau, which also has plenty of bikes for rental. And don’t forget that using a bicycle is also a good, quicker — but much sweatier — way to appreciate all of George Town’s nooks and crannies.

59 Take a herbal sauna or realign your chakras at Bodi Heart Sanctuary

Set on a stunning natural location at the bottom of Penang Hill, Penang’s Bodi Heart Sanctuary is an oasis of (Buddhist) meditation that few people know about. The center organizes meditation courses and international events hosting monks from as far as Myanmar, India, and around the world, but you can also just come to have a stroll and relax in its beautiful gardens.

One of the perks is their herbal steam sauna open to the public for a donation of RM10. It’s a very soothing experience to while away an afternoon in a part of the island that very few people know about.

60 Learn Silambam, an ancient South Indian martial art

Silambam Nillaikalakki, a form of stick-fighting martial art, originated more than five thousand years ago in the Kurinji mountains of South India and is one of Penang’s lesser-known heritages. It arrived with the Tamil migrants and survived in Malaysia, being mostly forgotten in favor of other types of Silambam in India.

Master Anbanathan has been teaching this art for decades from a rooftop in the Bali Rakyat of the Taman Tun Sardon area of Gelugor. The group meets almost daily from 7 pm to 9 pm and everyone is welcome to come to learn and experience the art. You can have more information on the Penang Silambam Nillaikallaki Group website .

Well, that sums up my list of the best things to do in Penang. I hope you’ll use them to plan a beautiful trip to Penang. To be fair, I couldn’t include everything, but if you feel I’ve made a major omission, please let me know in the comments below.

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25 Best Tourist Attractions in Penang, Malaysia

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Love might be a strong word to describe how you feel about a place, but Penang deserves my affection and is one of my favourite places to visit in Malaysia.

I have been to Penang twice, and in this article, I share the 25 best things to see and do to help you have as good a time as I did in this must-visit Southeast Asian destination.

Penang is easily accessible because it is linked to Malaysia’s mainland by two bridges and has an airport. Its capital, the UNESCO-listed George Town, is bursting with historic and religious buildings, fabulous eateries, cultural hubs, and famous street art. These have taken George Town from obscurity to featuring high on any wisened traveller’s bucket list.

Drive a short way from the centre of town, and you can immerse yourself in the ancient rainforest at The Habitat or relax beside golden sands and calm waters in Batu Ferringhi. And let’s not forget Kek Lok Si Temple or the beautiful Penang Botanical Gardens. Penang is a diverse place to visit, establishing it firmly on the Southeast Asia tourist trail.

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

#1 Explore the Street Art Trail in George Town

The street art in Penang is one of my favourite things about George Town. When I first saw it in 2018, I was blown away at how beautiful it was and loved that I could interact with the art thanks to things like motorbikes and chairs being part of some of the murals.

When I returned to Penang, it was great to retrace my steps and see the street art again. Sadly, I noticed a substantial deterioration of several pieces, where the paint had faded and peeled, or pieces of the mural’s brickwork had been taken away by tourists (yes, you read that correctly!).

Nevertheless, seeing Georgetown’s street art is one of the best things to do in Penang, and judging by the crowds waiting in line to take photographs, it remains a magnet to lure visitors to George Town.

To see my comparison images of the murals, please also read: Is Penang Street Art Still Worth Seeing?

#2 Discover the Metal Rod Art Murals

While this art form is nowhere near as talked about as street art in Penang, metal rod art is worthy of a mention in this list of Penang attractions.

There are over 52 different wire art installations dotted around Georgetown depicting traditional Malaysian trades and scenes from history, all with a whimsical twist. Each comes with information about the piece. One of the most famous wire art pieces features Jimmy Choo, the renowned shoe designer who worked as an apprentice in George Town.

They are really fun to see, and you can learn a lot about Georgetown from them, so when you visit, see how many you can find.

If you love street art, you may also like to read about 13 Great Reasons Why Ipoh is Worth Visiting

#3 Get creative at Hin Bus Depot

It might seem strange to promote a bus depot; however, this one is unique. Creatives have reutilised this urban building to promote art and culture with sculptures, murals, a small market, and street food stalls. It gives off an East London meets Malaysia hipster vibe that will suit many visitors looking for alternative things to see in Penang.

#4 See the Historic Chinese Clan Houses

One of the most historic attractions in George Town is the five clan house temples (Kongsi). They were built as meeting places for individuals from the same dialect group, family name or area in China.

Two of Penang’s most important clan houses are Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi, and they should be included in your Penang itinerary. These ornate grand temples resemble those usually seen only in China.

Cheah Kongsi is a clan house museum that charts nearly 200 years of the temple’s history. Visitors can see original furniture and artefacts and learn how meetings and leisure time were conducted in the clan house.

Make sure you don’t miss the opium and games room where the banned substance was freely smoked.

Also read: The Perfect 3-night Penang Itinerary

#5 Stroll along the waterfront at Chew Jetty

Along Penang’s waterfront are the ancient clan jetties. Like the Kongsi meeting houses, different family groups lived on each jetty.

The most famous is Chew Jetty. While locals still live here, you can stroll the boardwalk and visit stalls selling clothes, food, and souvenirs. Hop on a boat tour of the waterfront or stop for something to eat. It is only a small jetty and won’t take up much of your time, but if you want to see how life on the water is in Penang, visit Chew Jetty.

Also read: Chew Jetty: What To See in Penang’s Historic Waterfront Village

#6 Discover Penang’s Temples

Like most Asian destinations, you don’t need to look far to stumble across a beautiful temple. In Penang, there are many. You are welcome to step inside these temples, but you must observe any rules, such as covering shoulders and legs or removing shoes.

Several of the main temples in Penang are Kek Lok Si, Goddess of Mercy, Thean Hou Kong, Wat Chaiyamangalaran and Dhammikarama Temple.

This is the Hainan Temple (Thean Hou Kong) on Muntri Street in George Town. Its carved facade is quite beautiful.

#7 Tour the Blue Mansion – Cheong Fatt Tzu

The indigo-blue heritage mansion, once home to China’s first capitalist, is now a beautiful hotel, and I have been fortunate to stay there on both my trips to Penang. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, to give it the correct name, is also open to the public for tours .

Wander around its interior and hear stories of life in Penang in the 19th century and how the mansion was built using the finest building supplies from China and, more surprisingly, Scotland. It’s an elaborate place you won’t want to miss if you are interested in stepping back in time and seeing what an authentic mansion in Penang looks like.

It also has a lovely cafe on its grounds called Mangga, which is open all day to guests and non-guests. During the day, you can enjoy cakes, coffee, and light lunches; in the evening, delightful dishes and cocktails are served in the outdoor garden. Live music is also available on certain nights.

You can read my Blue Mansion Review for details on staying in this heritage mansion.

#8 Visit the Peranakan Heritage Mansion

Penang is a Unesco town with many protected sights. In addition to the Blue Mansion, another superb example of a heritage house is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion.

Inside the bright green facade of the mansion, you will find an array of decadent furniture, artwork, and glassware, which will give you a glimpse of how the rich of Penang would have lived. It is a stark contrast to the more toned-down interior of the Blue Mansion, so it is interesting to see.

Tickets can be bought at the door for a self-guided tour, and you need around 45 minutes to one hour to see everything.

Read Next: Pinang Peranakan Mansion: A Tour of Penang’s Heritage Museum

#9 Follow the George Town Heritage Trail

Penang would be listed in the top five if there was competition for the most cultures and influences in one place. From when the British arrived in 1786 and took control of this jungle island, it has seen cultural, religious and architectural influences from the indigenous Malay and the British, Chinese and Indian communities that have made Penang their home.

For this reason, Little India, with its mosques, temples, Indian restaurants, and shops, is completely different from Chinatown, with its Chinese clan houses, jetties, and ornately decorated townhouses. Decadent hotels like The Prestige Hotel and Eastern and Oriental Hotel , Cornwallis Fort, and St George’s Church, the oldest Anglican Church in Southeast Asia, are the remaining evidence of colonial rule.

There are around 100 heritage properties to see in George Town, and while the trail can be done independently, if you join a tour, you will learn much more about each site visited.

Please click this booking link for details of the Penang Heritage Trail Tour.

#10 Enjoy the coffee scene in George Town

While Ipoh is famous for its white coffee , in Penang, it comes in flat whites, cortado, espresso, and cappuccinos made by baristas who wouldn’t look out of place in any European city. Some of the coffee we drank in Penang (and we drank a lot!) was some of the best we have tasted. So, if you enjoy taking your time over coffee in quirky cafes, you will love George Town, as it is full of them.

One in particular that I must mention is Norm Roastery at 13, Gat Lebuh Gereja, which looks like a full-on industrial coffee factory from the inside and produces the best flat whites!

Other coffee shops in George Town which deserve a mention are:

• Ome by Spacebar Coffee | 1 Lorong Toh Aka
• Coffee Affairs | 21 Lebuh Bishop
• Lunabar | 12, Jalan Clove Hall
• Macallum Connoisseurs | 1 Gat Lebuh Macallum
• Le Petit Four | 310, Lebuh Pantai
• Bean Sprout Cafe | 35 Pitt Street

#11 Join a George Town street food tour

Penang has a reputation for being the top foodie destination in Malaysia. Of all the places I have visited in Malaysia, whenever I mention Penang, people grin and comment on how good the street food is in George Town.

The island is packed with places to eat traditional Malay, Indian, and Chinese dishes, but sometimes it can be overwhelming to find what you want (I speak from experience).

To make things easy, joining a street food tour with a local is a good idea. The guide can take you to all the best local cafes and hawker stalls to try Penang’s famous food. You can taste dishes you may not have tried before and get a brief run-down on the dish and its origins.

If joining a Penang street food tour sounds like something you would be interested in, please click on this link for more details – Penang Island Street Food Walking Tour .

#12 Enjoy a cake at China House

There’s only one place for cake in George Town: China House. It’s a tourist attraction in its own right due to its seemingly never-ending counter full of every type of cake you can think of, from red velvet and Victoria sponge to coffee, walnut, and carrot cake. The list is extensive, so you won’t want to miss visiting this cake emporium while you are in Penang. China House also serves up lunch and dinner, and there is an outdoor seating area accessible through a moon gate at the back of the property.

If China House has left you with a taste for more of George Town’s pastry offerings, head to Ming Xian Tai for the best egg custard tarts in Penang. Get to the shop before midday, or you will likely miss the chance to taste these delectable pastries as they sell quickly.

Find China House at 153 Beach Street and Ming Xiang Tai at 133 Jalan Burmah.

#13 Head to the top of the Komtar Observatory Tower

Visiting the Komtar Observatory Tower for a 360-degree birds-eye view of George Town and its coastline should be on any Penang to-do list. If you have a head for heights, walk out onto the glass bridge to see the streets below you!

#14 Have fun in one of George Town’s Museums

For a compact town, there are plenty of quirky museums, including the Upside Down Museum. Unsurprisingly, it is filled with everything that is upside down, and you enjoy the optical illusion of walking on the ceiling or down the stairs on your hands; it makes for some fun photographs.

For foodie lovers, the Wonderfood Museum introduces visitors to 100 giant-sized items of local Malay, all sculpted using Japanese food replication techniques. For photographers, the Asia Camera Museum covers the history of cameras and photography in Southeast Asia.

Numerous other museums feature ghosts, 3D interactive installations, Batik paintings, and even a 3D glow-in-the-dark museum, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

#15 Enjoy the nightlife on Love Lane

One of the streets in George Town that is most talked about is Love Lane, and for good reason. During the day, it is a sightseeing hotspot for tourists searching for street art and historic sights.

In the evening, the mood changes. Love Lane/Chulia Street, once the home of prostitutes and brothels, becomes a magnet for visitors (especially backpackers) looking to mingle with other travellers over a beer and some good stories. It’s a buzzy place, so if you want to experience the best of Penang’s nightlife, make sure you come to Love Lane.

On the outskirts of George Town

George Town is not the only place to visit on the island of Penang. The island is bursting with cool things to do that are slightly outside of George Town, which you need to add to your Penang itinerary.

#16 Ride the funicular up Penang Hill

If you have time, ride the funicular up Penang Hill. The journey is thrilling as the train whizzes up the hill faster than expected. From the top, the awe-inspiring views over Penang are your reward. The hill is pretty touristy, but there are places to eat and entertainment hubs, with The Habitat as the main draw.

If you are a hiker, a trail from Penang Hill leads down to the Penang Botanical Gardens. Kek Lok Si Temple is also a stone’s throw away, so you can visit both in one day if you have the time.

#17 Discover the rainforest at The Habitat

The Habitat is undoubtedly the best of all the Penang Hill attractions and one you have to see.

Set in a 130 million-year-old rainforest, The Habitat is a place to find peace and tranquillity in an otherwise manic location. Have fun on the giant swings, take in the views along the canopy walk, and keep an eye out for the wildlife that lives there. You might see monkeys or even a flying squirrel if you are lucky!

Book your entrance ticket to the Habitat on Penang Hill

#18 See the Penang Botanical Gardens and spot the monkeys

The Penang Botanical Gardens are free to enter and a quiet place to escape the hustle and bustle of George Town. Stroll along the pathways and immerse yourself in Malaysia’s indigenous flora and fauna. Watch out for the resident macaque monkey troop, who call this oasis home. I was lucky to see many babies with their mothers and enjoyed watching them interact (from a distance).

#19 Discover exotic flora in the Tropical Spice Garden

If you enjoyed visiting Penang’s Botanic Garden, which just so happens to be one of the best botanical gardens in Asia , then next on your list should be the Tropical Spice Garden. On eight acres of tended grounds, you can stroll around this beautiful setting and see some of the world’s most exotic plants and over 500 herbs and spices.

The Tropical Spice Garden has different sections, such as the Bamboo and Ornamental Gardens and the Spice Terraces. If you are a gardener or are travelling with children, this is one of the best educational places to visit in Penang to learn about these diverse and exotic variants.

Find the Tropical Spice Garden at Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Teluk Bahang

#20 Take time to explore Kek Lok Si Temple

South-east Asia’s biggest and most important Buddhist temple is Kek Lok Si, built in 1891.

Take the funicular or the steps from the car park to the first terrace to discover beautiful ornate ceremony rooms, pagodas, statues, ponds and individual temples. Vibrant reds and greens mix with subtle pinks and ochres, making Kek Lok Si Temple a feast for the eyes.

Its crowning glory is the “Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas”, which incorporates three cultures in one structure – Chinese, Thai, and Burmese.

You can visit the temple independently, but with a guide, you will learn much more about its history and its role for Buddhists in Malaysia and beyond.

Why not book to see Kek Lok Si as part of a Private Penang Tour?

#21 Bask on Batu Ferringhi Beach

Most people visiting Penang stay in George Town and then move on to other destinations in Malaysia. But why not spend a few days at Batu Ferringhi Beach? Plenty of resorts line the coast, catering to all budgets, and the town is full of restaurants. There’s also a night market during the high tourist season where you can pick up souvenirs.

I have stayed at the Shangri-La Rasa Sayang on both of my visits to Penang and have to say it is lovely to mix the chaotic vibe of George Town with the relaxing vibe of Batu Ferringhi.

Read Next: Shangri-La Rasa Sayang Resort Review: Beachfront Luxury in Penang

#22 See the floating Tanjung Bungah Mosque

The ‘floating’ Tanjung Bungah Mosque is close to Tanjung Bungah Beach. At high tide, the sea covers the stilts supporting the mosque, giving the illusion that it is floating. You can enter inside at given times but must abide by dress requirements. Be sure to have your arms, legs, and heads covered.

Like other Malaysian ‘floating’ temples like the pink Putra Mosque in Kuala Lumpur and Masjid Bandaraya in Kota Kinabalu, this one is also beautiful.

You can find Tanjung Bungah Mosque at Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah, 11200 Tanjung Bungah.

#23 Hike Penang National Park

One of the hidden gems in Penang, the National Park (Taman Negara Pulau Pinang), is the smallest one in Malaysia. It’s approximately a 90-minute drive by car or on the 101 bus from George Town.

The park has plenty of trails to explore, and if you are feeling adventurous, you can wild-camp on the beach for free. The main hiking trail leads to Monkey Beach (and yes, there are monkeys there). It is a hard trek due to the humid climate, so it is not advisable if your fitness levels aren’t great.

#24 Discover the historic Fort Cornwallis

If you are still looking for something historic to see in Penang, visit Fort Cornwallis. The British built the original wooden fort in 1786 and rebuilt it from bricks in 1793 when news of war breaking out between England and France reached Penang.

In recent years, the fort has become a hit with Instagrammers who want to take photos of themselves, meaning queues can be long, even first thing in the morning. Even so, this is one of Penang’s most important historic colonial relics, so it is worth seeing. There is a small entry fee to go inside, where you will see a prison, cannons, and a drawbridge.

Fort Cornwallis is found at Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town.

#25 Release your inner child at ESCAPE Penang

Last on this list of things to do in Penang is one for visitors of all ages. Forget Typhoon Lagoon in Florida and head to ESCAPE Penang , winner of two Guinness Book of Records Awards for the world’s longest water slide, named accordingly “The Longest”, measuring 3,645 feet.

Other ESCAPE Penang features include a chair lift, lazy rivers, swimming pools, ziplines – the list is endless. So, if you are looking for a fun way to finish your trip, this is one of the activities in Penang that both kids and adults will love.

Please PIN for Future Travel to Penang

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Must-see attractions in Penang

Blue Mansion

George Town

The most photographed building in George Town, this magnificent 38-room, 220-window mansion was built in the 1880s and rescued from ruin in the 1990s…

Penang National Park

At 23 sq km, this is Malaysia's smallest national park, but it's beach-fringed forests are home to silvered leaf monkeys, flying lemurs, leopard cats and…

Tropical Spice Garden

Facing a beautiful white-sand beach on the 101 bus route, this beautifully landscaped oasis preserves 500 species of tropical flora, spread across 200…

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

Lovingly restored, this ostentatious, mint-green structure was one of the most stunning private residences in George Town. Every door, wall and archway is…

Kek Lok Si Temple

Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple is a colourful explosion of statues, pagodas and pavilions, cascading down a hillside in Air Itam, around 8km from the…

Khoo Kongsi

The most spectacular clanhouse in George Town, Khoo Kongsi is an explosion of colour. Intricate ceramic mosaics of immortals, carp and dragons dance…

Kuan Yin Teng

Dedicated to Kuan Yin, goddess of mercy, this temple is the liveliest place of worship in George Town. The current temple was built in the early 19th…

The Habitat

Bordering one of Penang's two virgin rainforest reserves, the spine of this fantastic addition to the Penang Hill experience is a finely crafted 1.6km…

If you don't know your Lat from your Tezuka Osamu, then this is the place to become more closely acquainted with the dynamic work of comic-book artists…

This 2018 addition to George Town's ever-growing collection of public artworks is a gallery crafted from two vacant pre-WWII shophouses. Artworks run the…

Pantai Pasir Panjang

This empty, pristine beach with white sand the texture of raw sugar is one of the prettier spots on Penang for the few who make the effort to get here…

Teluk Bahang Forest Reserve

This 873-hectare forest reserve contains a chunk of Penang's virgin rainforests. Guides are rarely available, so pick up a hiking leaflet at the ranger's…

Cheah Kongsi

Looking splendid after a major restoration, Cheah Kongsi is home to the oldest Straits Chinese clan association in Penang. Topped by a tiled pagoda roof,…

The largest and most intact of the clan jetties, Chew Jetty consists of 75 elevated houses, several Chinese temples, a community hall and lots of tourist…

Lebuh Armenian

Although this street is named for Penang's Armenian population (such as the famous Sarkies, who established the Eastern & Oriental Hotel), there's no…

Botanical Gardens

Once a granite quarry, Penang's Botanical Gardens were founded in 1884 by Charles Curtis, a tireless British plant lover who collected the original…

Hin Bus Depot

The industrial remains of this former bus station have become a vibrant hub for George Town's burgeoning contemporary art scene. There are cafes and pop…

Protestant Cemetery

Under a canopy of magnolia trees you’ll find the graves of Captain Francis Light, the founder of the British colony of Penang, and many others, including…

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm

Entopia is about so much more than tropical butterflies – although there's some 13,000 of these beauties from around 120 species fluttering freely around…

Ban Po Thar

This seven-tier, 30m-high tower is one of the most striking features of Kek Lok Si Temple. Completed in 1927, the octagonal pagoda is Burmese at the top,…

Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple

Penang's first Buddhist temple was built in 1805 by migrants from Myanmar (Burma). A series of panel paintings on the life of the Buddha line the walkways…

Wat Chayamangkalaram

The Temple of the Reclining Buddha is a typical Thai temple, complete with mosaic-covered naga serpents guarding the entrance, a sharp-eaved pagoda roof,…

Set up in 1860, this Clanhouse is also known as Kew Leong Tong, which means Hall of Nine Dragons. The association is open to anyone with the surname Lim,…

Hock Teik Cheng Sin Temple

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Masjid Kapitan Keling

Penang’s first Indian Muslim settlers, troops from the East India Company, built Masjid Kapitan Keling in 1801, named for the captain who had the idea…

Art & Garden by Fuan Wong

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Rainbow Skywalk

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House of Yeap Chor Ee

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Asia Camera Museum

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Batik Painting Museum Penang

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St George's Church

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Tropical Fruit Farm

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Han Jiang Ancestral Temple

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Church of the Assumption

The Catholic Church of the Assumption was founded in 1786, not long after the foundation of Penang, but the present building was constructed in 1861.

Perhaps the most appealing clan jetty, with a new row of wooden homes and businesses owned by members of one extended family.

Teochew Puppet & Opera House

A family collection of puppets, costumes and traditional instruments form the basis of this charming specialist museum.

Sri Mariamman Temple

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Penang Museum

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Home » Travel Guides » Malaysia » 25 Best Things to Do in Penang (Malaysia)

25 Best Things to Do in Penang (Malaysia)

Penang is one of the most famous spots in Malaysia and with good reason. Most of the state of Penang is located on an island and as such you can enjoy beaches, sparkling waters, and a laid back island feel coupled with a big city experience. This part of Malaysia is also known for its food, and anyone who loves to eat will truly find a culinary paradise here, much of which is down to the mix of influences in the city.

Penang enjoys a large Chinese and Tamil community, along with the indigenous Malay residents, and you will find a fantastic and diverse food scene that includes fiery curries, toothsome noodles, and a plethora of street food delights. All of this is encircled by gorgeous architecture and the traditional center of Penang is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right.

This means that you can explore pretty ancient buildings as well as museums, forts, gardens, and temples, and visitors to Penang will certainly not be short of places to visit and sights to check out on a trip here.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Penang :

1. Tour the Tropical Spice Garden

One of the highlights of Penang, especially if you want to get out of the central areas is the Tropical Spice Garden located on Jalan Teluk Bahang.

The garden is an ode to all the gorgeous herbs and spices that are indigenous to this part of the world and sits on the site of what used to be a rubber plantation.

This is an amazing place to visit for anyone interested in Malay flora and fauna and you can even take a cookery class here to learn how these herbs and spices are used to make classic dishes enjoyed across Malaysia.

There are also guided or audio tours of the garden and activities for younger visitors to help get them interested in all the various aromatic plants found here.

2. Learn some history at Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis is one of the most famous sights in Penang and dates from the 18th century.

It was built by the British East India Company under the direction of Sir Francis Light who was the founder of Penang and was designed to defend the city in case of an attack from the water.

The fort is still in good condition and you can see a famous statue of Francis Light that stands at the entrance to the fort as well as a selection of original cannons.

If you notice any flowers in the cannon, then this is because there is a local legend that says that anyone wishing to conceive should make an offering here.

3. Visit Kek Lok Si Temple

Kek Lok Si Temple is famed for being one of the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia and as such you should make sure not to miss it if you are travelling to Penang.

Many Buddhist devotees consider this to be an important pilgrimage site and you can spot the beautiful towering Kek Lok Si Pagoda as well as the statue of Guanyin.

The statue is constructed in the shape of the Goddess of Mercy and stands at a height of 36.5 meters and the entire temple complex is built in a range of styles.

As such make sure to look out for the Chinese base, Thai style mid-section, and the Burmese inspired top level.

4. Sunbathe on Batu Ferringhi Beach

Anyone coming to Penang in search of some sun and sand should make their way to Batu Ferringhi which is known for being one of the best beach areas on the island.

Here you will find a long strip of golden beach, part of which is public and some of which is used by the resorts that line the coast.

Popular past times on the beach include sunbathing or swimming in the soothing waters, or just relaxing and sipping on a coconut as you look across the water.

If you can, try to come here at sunset as the views are simply stunning.

5. Have afternoon tea at Suffolk House

Suffolk House offers a glimpse of traditional British colonial architecture in Penang and sits in the scenic part of the island known, rather alarmingly, as Air Itam or Black Water.

The house would have been the former home of Sir Francis Light who is remembered as the official founder of Penang although it fell into disrepair following his death and was closed to the public.

It reopened in 2007 having been lovingly restored over 3 years and now you can take a guided tour that will fill you in on all the history of this spectacular building.

One of the big highlights of a trip here is the onsite restaurant where you can enjoy a traditional cream tea which comes with delicious pastries and a range of delicate sandwiches.

6. Visit Khoo Kongsi

Khoo Kongsi is another one of Penang’s most iconic attractions and used to be a clan-house in the days of old.

Nowadays the home has been turned into a museum and you will find gorgeous architecture here as well as elegant stone carvings that have a heavy Chinese influence.

The home was built in the 19th century and has a number of breathtaking signature features such as a large temple altar that is decorated with gold leaf and inlaid with ancestral tablets.

You can take a tour of the house and if you happen to be in town at the right time you may even be able to watch a Chinese Opera show here as several performances take place throughout the year.

7. Go for a trishaw ride

One of the best ways to see Penang in an afternoon is to use one of its traditional modes of transport in the form of a colorful trishaw.

The trishaws are either operated by a small motor or by pedal power and are usually covered in interesting design features such as fairy lights or flowers.

Riding in a trishaw also gives you to opportunity to check out some of the less visited parts of Georgetown and most drivers also act as guides and will fill you in on all the history of the areas you visit.

8. Visit the Penang Peranakan Museum

The Penang Peranakan Museum is dedicated to telling the story of the Peranakan people who are also sometimes referred to as Straits Chinese.

The Peranakans moved to Malaysia in the days of old and a unique culture came with them which is a blend of traditional Chinese and traditional Malay customs.

As such, if you want to know more about this amazing culture then the Penang Peranakan Museum will take you back in time and there are even recreations of traditional homes from the 19th century as well as galleries of photographs and antiques.

9. Scare yourself at the Snake Temple

As the name suggests, the Snake Temple in Penang is full of resident slithery creatures and as such is one of the most unique temples in Malaysia.

Most of the residents here are pit vipers and the temple dates from 1805 when snakes found their way to the building and the benevolent monks allowed them to take up residence here.

Nowadays you will see snakes coiled in corners all over the temple as well as lounging on the temple altars and you can also have your picture taken holding one of the snakes if you are feeling brave.

This is a great place to come with all the family and the snakes are said to be safe and do not attack visitors.

10. Have lunch at Pelita Nasi Kandar

Pelita Nasi Kandar is known across Malaysia and is not to be missed if you want to try some of the best local food in Penang.

Nasi Kandar is basically rice which is heaped with meat, fish, seafood, and vegetable side dishes, and is then liberally doused in delicious curry sauce.

All the food is presented in a glass fronted case and you can simply point to what you want to eat and have it added to your plate.

The food has a strong Tamil influence due to the local Tamil community in Penang so expect Indian style curries and flavors with dishes such as cabbage and okra fried with mustard seeds and turmeric.

11. Explore Little India

Little India represents a small section of Penang but it is certainly not to be dismissed because of its size.

There is a strong Tamil population across Malaysia and in Penang and you could be forgiven for thinking that you have taken a wrong turn and ended up in a completely different country.

As you walk around Little India look out for shops selling gorgeous colorful saris as well as perfume emporiums and incense shops.

Other venues blast Bollywood music onto the streets and this is also one of the best places in Penang to sample some street food.

These include deep fried pastries such as samosas and this is also a great place to find one of the most famous drinks in Malaysia which is Teh Tarik or a kind of tea made with condensed milk and poured from one cup to another in order to create a thick foam head.

12. Have a cup of tea at Huang Chen Tao Tea Art

One of the less known facts about Penang is that it is covered in dainty little tea shops thanks to the strong Chinese influence in this city.

Many of the tea houses sit in shop houses and it is easy to walk past and miss one without realizing the delights that are contained within.

Huang Chen Tao Tea Art is one such place and you will find a traditional Chinese tea supplier here with packets of tea stacked all over the shop.

There are also a range of little tables arranged in the front of the shop where you can sit down and have a cup of the delicious leaves on sale and this makes a great place to pick up some tea-based souvenirs of your trip to Penang.

13. Tour Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque

Tanjung Bungah is the name of a town that lies between Georgetown and Batu Ferringhi.

The main reason to come to this quiet part of Penang is to visit the Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque which was built on stilts over the water, hence the reference to it ‘floating’. When the tide is low you can walk directly underneath the mosque and check out this amazing feat of engineering which was also the first of its kind in Malaysia.

14. Take the ferry to Butterworth

Many people think that Penang consists only of Georgetown but actually the name refers to the whole state of Penang which also includes Butterworth which is just across the water.

Butterworth is actually part of the mainland of Malaysia whereas Georgetown is located on an island, and one of the best things to do here if you want to explore is to take the ferry across the water.

This means that you can enjoy the sea breeze and take in some of the best vistas both of Georgetown and Butterworth.

15. Go shopping at Batu Ferringhi Night Market

Batu Ferringhi is known for its night market and makes a great place to visit if you are looking to shop for some bargains.

The night market sells a huge number of products such as clothes, bags, watches, and DVDs, and you will also find a wide selection of souvenirs such as wood carvings.

Another key reason to come here is to check out the street food scene as you can get a variety of dishes here such as barbecued meats, noodles, and fried rice.

16. Have dinner at Northam Beach Cafe

If you want to find one of the best ways to end a day in Penang then come to this fantastic hawker center which sets up in the evenings and lets you take in gorgeous views across the water as you dine.

The beauty of this way of dining is that there are a wide variety of stalls available here so you can order a range of different dishes as you see fit.

Just some of the choices here include Penang prawn noodles, barbecued chicken wings, and dim sum, and you can even get traditional English chicken pies or sausage and mashed potatoes.

This is also one of the best places to come if you fancy a cold beer as you watch the sunset.

17. Take a tram ride to Penang Hill

Penang Hill is without a doubt one of the top attractions in Penang and towers to a height of 812 meters above sea level.

The hill offers some much needed respite from the fierce heat of the city and getting there is part of the fun.

Penang Hill is serviced by the Penang Hill Railway which is one of the oldest funicular systems in the world and once you get to the top you can take in the amazing views across to Langkawi and Kedah.

There are also a range of nature trails here if you like hiking and you can also trek to the hill from the neighboring Botanical Gardens if you fancy a workout.

18. Check out the nightlife at Upper Penang Road

Compared to other parts of Malaysia Penang has a lively nightlife scene, much of which is located along Upper Penang Road.

Visitors and residents alike flock to this area for the bars and nightclubs that line the street and some of the best known venues include Slippery Senoritas and the Soho Free House.

Many clubs and bars have happy hours and different nightly promotions so make sure to spend some time walking along the road to find the best deals.

19. Explore Penang National Park

Penang National Park is the perfect place to come if you want to get out of the city and spend some time communing with nature.

There are a variety of trails here which lead to pretty little beaches and you can even walk to an ancient lighthouse that dates from 1883. There are also trails that lead you to Kerachut Beach which is the home of a Turtle Conservation Centre and it’s a great idea to pack a picnic and spend the day exploring the park.

20. Eat your way around Chulia Street Night Market

Penang is well known for its amazing street food scene and if you want to experience this first hand then head for the Chulia Street Night Market where you will be able to sample some of the most delicious plates on offer in the city.

The street market sets up as the sun goes down and you will find a range of dishes served piping hot from small pushcarts.

Some of the toothsome bites on offer include creamy soups like laksa as well as wonton mie, a dish of noodles and dumplings.

You can also get classics like carrot cake which is actually a savory pancake made with radishes and other treats like Hainanese chicken rice.

21. Enjoy the water sports at Batu Ferringhi

One of the reasons people come to Batu Ferringhi is to enjoy the water sports that are on offer here.

If you are looking for an adventure, then Batu Ferringhi is a great choice as you can try sports such as parasailing or jet-skiing.

There is also the chance to take a banana boat ride, or you can go out in a boat and enjoy some deep-sea fishing.

If you want to stay on dry land, then you can rent a beach buggy and zoom around the sands in style.

22. Tour the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

If you are interested in the history of Penang then a great place to visit is the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery.

The actual museum building is a piece of history in itself as it is located in a traditional colonial building that dates from 1821 and you will find a wealth of galleries here including an exhibit dedicated major events in the Penang over the years.

There are also models of traditional homes here include a reconstruction of a marriage chamber.

23. Have dinner at China House

If you are looking for some upscale dining in Penang then you need to come to China House which is located in a gorgeous colonial heritage building.

The restaurant is actually made up of three separate areas which all have a different feel to them including a main dining hall, a cafe and a swish bar area.

Each area serves different kinds of food and you can get a lovely afternoon tea with delicious dainty cakes at the cafe.

24. Check out the butterflies at the Butterfly Farm

Anyone who likes flora and fauna should check out the Butterfly Farm in Batu Ferringhi.

Here you will find an amazing 4,000 butterflies and 120 different species, all of which flutter around in a large and colorful garden.

Some of the species here include rare finds such as Yellow Bird Wing butterflies and Indian Leaf butterflies and the farm also works as a conservation center which is focused on breeding and caring for the habitats of these endangered species.

25. Wander around the Yahong Art Gallery

The Yahong Art Gallery is dedicated to the gorgeous art form of Batik printing which is said to date from the 4th century.

The craft involves painting designs on fabric with wax and then dipping the fabric in a selection of different dyes to create colorful patterns.

Much of the Batik on show here is the work of Chuah Theng Teng but you will also find a mix of pieces by other Malaysian artists and a few works from around the region.

Other galleries also showcase different crafts and you can find anything from watercolor paintings to ornate jewelry.

25 Best Things to Do in Penang (Malaysia):

• Tour the Tropical Spice Garden
• Learn some history at Fort Cornwallis
• Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
• Sunbathe on Batu Ferringhi Beach
• Have afternoon tea at Suffolk House
• Visit Khoo Kongsi
• Go for a trishaw ride
• Visit the Penang Peranakan Museum
• Scare yourself at the Snake Temple
• Have lunch at Pelita Nasi Kandar
• Explore Little India
• Have a cup of tea at Huang Chen Tao Tea Art
• Tour Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque
• Take the ferry to Butterworth
• Go shopping at Batu Ferringhi Night Market
• Have dinner at Northam Beach Cafe
• Take a tram ride to Penang Hill
• Check out the nightlife at Upper Penang Road
• Explore Penang National Park
• Eat your way around Chulia Street Night Market
• Enjoy the water sports at Batu Ferringhi
• Tour the Penang State Museum and Art Gallery
• Have dinner at China House
• Check out the butterflies at the Butterfly Farm
• Wander around the Yahong Art Gallery

Dive Into Malaysia

Penang Hill: Full Guide To What To Do On Penang Hill [2024]

After exploring the streets of George Town, I’d say the next must-visit attraction in Penang is Penang Hill. It’s full of fun things to do, and even the ride up there is fun.

And did I mention the view? There are amazing views over Penang from this hill which reaches 833 metres high.

There are no roads up here and, from the top, you can explore Penang’s jungle interior. There are places to eat, fun things to do in Penang Hill, the views and plenty to keep you occupied for a half-day trip (or longer).

A Penang Hill tour should be on every Penang itinerary, but it can be confusing to work out what to do. Penang Hill offers so many different attractions and activities, so it can feel a little confusing.

Below, I help with this! In this full guide to Penang Hill including what to do on Penang Hill, I cover everything. There are details about how to get to Penang Hill, what to do at Penang Hill when you get there, eating options, Penang Hill operating hours, ticket prices and much more. I also suggest a Penang Hill itinerary so you can skip straight to that if you want to be told exactly what to do 🙂

I share a video of our most recent trip to Penang Hill too so you can see exactly what it is like.

If you are short on time and want things even easier, you can also click here to sign up for this half-day tour. It visits Penang Hill and nearby (and amazing) Kek Lok Si Temple.

Where Is Penang Hill?

Penang Hill is actually a group of peaks, and it is located in Air Itam which is an area of Penang six kilometres west of George Town. It is somewhat in the middle of the northern part of the island.

You can click on the map below which will open Google maps with the Penang Hill location.

Penang Hill Address: 422, Jalan Bukit Bendera, 11500 Bukit Bendera, Pulau Pinang (funicular station)

You can also find a downloadable Penang Hill hiking trail map including all the Penang Hill attractions here .

How To Get To Penang Hill

You can’t drive to Penang Hill – which is a good thing. Part of what keeps Penang Hill special is that there isn’t cars and tons of people, although it’s getting busier all the time.

To reach the Penang Hill top, where all the Penang Hill activities are located below, you need to either hike, take a jeep ride or (best option) take the cool Penang Hill Funicular Train.

Penang Hill Funicular Train

The Penang Hill Funicular Train is the most popular way to visit Penang Hill, and it’s not surprising. It’s easy, fun and a good price.

The railway was completed in 1923 when Penang Hill was a British colonial hill station. They needed a better way to transport people and goods. Over time, it became a popular tourist attraction, as visitors flocked to experience the stunning panoramic views from the summit of the hill.

The original train was a simple two-carriage affair, powered by a steam engine, which could carry up to 50 passengers at a time in wooden carriages. Until 2010, you needed to change trains part-way up. There were improvements over the years.

In 2010, it was all upgraded with new tracks and new cars. It now carries 100 passengers at a time, and there is no need to change trains. It’s faster as well, and you can be at the top in only five minutes! It no longer stops at the middle station unless this is arranged in advance.

It’s quite a ride, and it has the steepest tunnel track in the world. If you can, sit at the bottom for the best views. It can feel a little like you are on a roller coaster on the way down!

There are views from the Penang Hill train like you can see below.

To take the train, the Penang Hill railway station is located at the address above. It’s easy to get here by Grab taxi or you can take a Rapid Penang bus from George Town. This will usually involve some walking.

If you drive to the station, there is a big Penang Hill car park next door where you can leave your car.

The train currently runs from 6:30am to 10pm with the Penang Hill train ticket office shutting at 8pm. You can buy tickets at the office or online beforehand here .

The downside of the Penang Hill funicular train is that it is very popular, and lines can be long. So it is a good idea to buy tickets in advance and consider the “fast lane” tickets to avoid long lines, especially on a weekend or in holiday periods.

We last visited around 9am on a Monday morning and didn’t experience any lines, so this seems to be a good time to go.

Ticket prices vary depending on if you are Malaysian or not. For locals, an adult return ticket is RM12 or RM40 for the fast lane. For foreigners, it’s RM30 or RM80 for the fast lane. There are child tickets available for 4 – 12 year olds. This information is correct at time of publishing, but may, of course, change.

If you are short on time and want things even easier, you can also click here to sign up for this half-day tour. It visits Penang Hill and nearby (and amazing) Kek Lok Si Temple. It includes fast lane tickets.

From Penang Botanical Gardens

You can also get to Penang Hill from Penang Botanical Gardens. There is a paved road from the car park in front of the Gardens.

You can’t drive your own car on this road, but there are special jeeps that can take you up for around RM160. You can also hike up this road, although it’s a little boring.

If you want to try hiking up Penang Hill, there are better hiking trails you can take. They are generally considered challenging. You can find options here . If you want to try hiking, it can be nicer to take the funicular train up and then try hiking Penang Hill on the way down.

Penang Hill Malaysia

Penang Hill has a long history and is actually the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia. It was first established in 1787 by Francis Light. So there is a long Penang Hill history.

The British loved this area as it had several benefits. Firstly, the Penang Hill weather can be much kinder that the heat below. The Penang Hill temperature is generally about five degrees cooler. The second is that it didn’t have the malaria risk that was down below.

The third is that it was a great vantage point as in clear weather, they could see any enemy ships approaching. They could then signal Fort Cornwallis in George Town which could then prepare to fight.

The Malay name, Bukit Bendera, means Flag Hill and refers to the flag pole by the Bel Retiro bungalow which was built by Light in 1789. This name is more specific than Penang Hill and refers only to its most developed peak.

The Penang Hill height is about 833 metres.

Today, Penang Hill is a popular tourist attraction, one of the most visited on the island. Between the views, rainforest and the awesome things to do on Penang Hill, there are many reasons to visit here.

I recommend you try to visit on a clear day for the best views. It’s not a great attraction in the rain.

What To Do On Penang Hill

There are a lot of answers to what to do in Penang Hill. Here are some of the top ones. In a day, you could do everything. With half a day, I’d cut some things out. In the itinerary section below, I go into further details of what I recommend depending on the time you have available.

Take Photos Of The View

When you step out of the funicular railway, you’ll be at a small plaza area.

Head around to the right of where you walk out of the station and follow the little road. There’s a range of paths and viewing areas where you can take your time soaking it all in. Take a photo of the Penang Hill view.

You can also explore one of the old wooden carriages. It’s a little different to the modern train you go up in 🙂

Explore Nature And Amazing Views At The Habitat Penang Hill

A few minutes’ walk from the top of the funicular, The Habitat is the prime attraction on Penang Hill. This is the place to get back to nature and experience the absolute best views of Penang especially if you want to experience a Penang Hill sunset or a Penang Hill night view.

If I had to describe it in a few words, I would say it’s a rainforest discovery centre + amazing views.

The Habitat starts with a 1.6 kilometre nature trail which will take you around the 130 million year old rainforest that it calls home. There are information boards about the history of the area as well as the local flora and fauna. There are also various cool viewing platforms and themed gardens.

Included in the entry ticket is also the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk and the Langur Way Canopy Walk.

This Penang Hill canopy walk is 40 metres above the forest floor and spans three headlands and two valleys over its 230 metres. It offers great views of the rainforest at various levels.

The Penang Hill tree top walk is the highest viewing point on the island. It’s 13 metres from the ground and over the trees. It gives you amazing 360 degree views of the island of Penang. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Langkawi islands.

There are also a couple of other attractions here for an extra fee including a zip line course and VR experience. You can also visit here for a special sunset walk on weekends which includes a nature walk with guide just before sunset and once it is dark, spotting wildlife as well as walking on the tree top walk as the sun sets.

The Habitat requires a ticket to visit.

You can buy discounted tickets here which save you 10% and make things very easy or read our full guide to visiting The Habitat here.

Visit Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple 

Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple is straight ahead after you get off the funicular. It’s in a beautiful spot with great views from the side.

It’s also a peaceful and colourful Penang Hill Hindu temple which is worth a visit. Built in the 1800s, it’s dedicated to the Lord of War, Murugan. It’s one of the oldest Hindu temples on Penang.

It’s open 24 hours a day.

Check Out Penang Hill Mosque

Penang Hill Mosque adds some Islamic architecture to the surrounding colonial buildings near to the Hindu temple.

It was built more recently for Muslims living and working on Penang Hill.

Learn The Penang Hill History At Penang Hill Gallery @Edgecliff

Located inside one of the historic bungalows on Penang Hill, the Penang Hill Gallery @Edgecliff is the place to go to learn about the history of Penang Hill. It’s only about 200 metres from the funicular train on the edge of a cliff and, of course, has great views towards George Town.

The gallery has five main parts. It starts at a Time Tunnel where you go back in time to an indoor forest in the biodiversity section. You can then learn more about the colonial-style architecture on Penang Hill at the heritage section.

You then enter the funicular section which is all about the history and engineering of the funicular railway. Finally, there’s the cultural gallery.

There’s a lot of interesting information and it’s well presented. You don’t need long at this gallery, less than an hour will do. It’s a good introduction to the area on arrival to Penang Hill.

This attraction is closed on Tuesdays. Tickets are available at the door and are currently RM10 per adult with cheaper prices for kids and senior citizens.

Experience An Earthquake And A Typhoon!

For one of the completely different Penang Hill things to do, experience an earthquake and typhoon! Of course, I don’t mean a real earthquake and typhoon, but a simulation.

This experience will show you what it feels like at an 8th level of magnitude earthquake and a typhoon with heavy rain, wind and shocks.

This attraction could do with a better video or perhaps some 3D glasses, but it’s entertaining, especially for kids and teenagers.

You can experience just one or both of these things. The price for one is RM30 for an adult, and there are combo tickets for both.

Get Some Love At Little Village Penang Hill

Little Village is another paid attraction on Penang Hill. It’s a string of cute, little outdoor attractions and indoor exhibits of honey and bees. There are also some great views from here.

The entry is near the funicular station. Look for the ticket counter in a telephone booth! Tickets cost RM8 for Malaysian adults and RM15 for foreigners. Children are cheaper.

It starts with a walk through a Love Arch as pictured above. Here, you can buy a Penang Hill love lock that can be customised for you and your beloved and then hung by the fence. This is followed by the Love Stroll with views and more heart-shaped arches.

You then hit the Valentine Pavillion which is a popular place for engagements.

Next up is Dwarf Village with miniature houses for each of the dwarves in Snow White. Then, randomly, there is a Rabbit Garden which is a petting zoo for rabbits and a Bee Garden with bee hives.

This leads into the indoor part of the attraction with a gift shop and exhibits on bees, beekeeping and honey.

You don’t need long to visit this attraction. It feels random and a bit weird, but if you love Instagram, you could probably take some good photos here.

See History At The Penang Hill Bungalows

The British built many bungalows around these peaks and many are still here today. There are 52 with the oldest built in 1789.

You can find these bungalows pretty easily just by walking around. You can also find them on this map .

They are in different conditions – some have been restored beautifully and have been re-purposed. Others are falling apart.

They are part of Penang Hill’s history so look out for them as you explore.

Find 100 Species Of Plants And Sip Coffee At Monkey Cup Garden

This has to be my favourite place to have a coffee and a snack on Penang Hill.

The Monkey Cup Garden has over 100 varieties of plants with both lowland and highland species. It’s a beautiful garden with a lot to look at. There’s also frequent sightings of monkeys, flying lemurs, squirrels, lizards, birds and more.

You don’t just have to walk around to enjoy it either. You can relax in the Kopi Hutan Cafe (Forest Coffee Cafe). It’s an absolutely gorgeous setting to have a coffee, tea, iced chocolate or soft drink. They also serve sandwiches, cakes, quiche and more.

It’s about a 25-minute walk to get here from the funicular station.

Go Hiking At Penang Hill

Penang Hill is known for its hiking and there are some great trails. You can, of course, get here from hiking up from the Botanical Gardens, but there are also many Penang Hill trail options once you are at the top.

For something less strenuous, there are Nature Walks with three different paths. You can walk these yourselves or there are also free guided walks on weekends. You can get more information on these by emailing: [email protected]

To go on a Penang Hill hike, there are many options. You can simply walk around the top between the various attractions or around The Habitat Penang Hill.

I also recommend a walk to what is in Google Maps as “Penang Hill best viewpoint” as it is very good!

You can also do some more serious Penang Hill trekking. Find all your options here .

Eat Your Way Around Penang Hill

If there is one thing you don’t have to worry about on Penang Hill, it’s that you’ll be hungry! There are plenty of eating options from a Penang Hill restaurant to a Penang Hill cafe (like the one at Monkey Cup Garden) to a Penang Hill Food Court.

If you are looking for a special restaurant at Penang Hill, consider David Brown Penang Hill. It’s a “British colonial Restaurant and Tea Terraces” and the top choice.

You can also visit the Astaka/Cliff Cafe. This is basically a three-storey food court. Yum! There are views with food, drinks and souvenirs. It’s a tradition for us to always have an ice kacang when we visit here which is what is pictured above.

There’s also cafes at some of the attractions like at the Monkey Cup Garden and The Habitat. There’s a bakery that sells bubble tea as well.

There are other options too so you can eat plenty on Penang Hill.

Stay On Penang Hill

If you want to really soak up Penang Hill, you can stay here overnight!

The Bellevue Hotel is located near the top of the funicular railway and offers great views, a lovely garden, bar and a good restaurant. It’s a great way to relax and really enjoy everything Penang Hill has to offer.

There are a range of room types from doubles to family rooms with three singles. Sadly, the hotel is a little rundown.

Click here to see the latest prices.

Penang Hill Cable Car?

There are plans to build a Penang Hill cable car. This is expected to be completed in about three years time and run from Penang Botanical Gardens to the summit.

This is to help ease congestion on the funicular railway.

We’ll publish more details on here when it’s nearing completion.

Penang Hill Itinerary

If you don’t have much time, it’s worth making the journey up Penang Hill even if you can only ride the funicular train, take a photo of the view and go back down, although try to dedicate at least a few hours.

With a few hours, you can take the funicular up, enjoy the plaza area on arrival, soak up the views and check out the wooden carriage. Take a look at Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple and then head to The Habitat Penang Hill.

Walk the Nature Trail and don’t miss the canopy walk and tree top walk.

Grab something to eat at the Astaka/Cliff Cafe before heading back down.

With more time, walk around the trails some more. Visit Monkey Cup Garden and have a piece of cheesecake at the cafe there. You can also visit any of the other attractions we have listed here that appeal.

Penang Hill Video Walk-Through

Below, you can see a full video walk-through of our most recent experience of visiting Penang Hill from catching the funicular up to finding the best views to exploring The Habitat Penang.

Penang Hill Ticket Price

There is no Penang Hill ticket or Penang Hill entrance fee. You can enter Penang Hill for free. However, some of the attractions have their own entry fee and, if you take the funicular railway up, you’ll also need to purchase that.

The main thing you are likely to need a ticket for is The Habitat.

You can buy discounted tickets for The Habitat here.

Penang Hill Opening Hours

Penang Hill is a huge public area, so it doesn’t shut down as such. However, the funicular service runs from 6:30am to 10pm and the ticketing counters close at 8pm.

This means you can get up here in time for a gorgeous Penang Hill sunrise.

The different attractions in Penang Hill have their own opening and closing hours. Generally, from around 9am to 5pm, there is plenty open.

Final Words

I hope you have enjoyed this complete guide to Penang Hill, and it has answered all your questions.

Penang Hill is a great place to visit. Even if you just have time to take the funicular up and take photos of the view, it’s still worth a visit. If you are short on time, I recommend this tour .

Ideally stay longer and at least visit The Habitat to see the natural side of Penang. You can buy discounted tickets for The Habitat Penang Hill here .

Whatever you do, I hope you love your time at Penang Hill.

Looking for other things to do in Penang? Find our full guide here . You can also find our full guide to where to stay in Penang here and all our guides to Penang here .

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By Sharon Gourlay

Sharon is a certified Malaysia travel expert and can't get enough of travelling and talking about Malaysia since she first visited 21 years ago. She travels around Malaysia multiple times a year both alone and with her kids. She used to call Penang home and especially loves this food paradise. Sharon also has a Bachelor of Arts in Asian Studies, a Certificate III in International Travel Sales and has been certified by Tourism Malaysia as a Malaysia Travel Expert. Through this site, she'll help you have the perfect trip to this amazing destination.

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10 Top Attractions in Penang Island

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on November 16, 2023

Penang Island in Malaysia is an incredible destination packed with historic architecture and major tourist attractions. You can explore national parks or admire incredible architecture on the island. From colonial structures to contemporary street art in, Penang’s capital George Town is a cultural hotspot in Asia. Top it off with fantastic Malaysian cuisine and waterfront views , and it is clear to see why Penang Island is such a wonderful place to explore. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Penang:

10. Chew Jetty [SEE MAP]

Step back in time and experience the Malaysia of the past with a visit to Chew Jetty. At more than a century old, Chew Jetty is a collection of wooden houses built next to the water. The jetty was just a row of planks where passengers could board boats, but Chinese immigrants who worked at the port in the 19th century built homes directly above the jetty. One of these, known as Chew Jetty, still stands. The jetty homes have kept up with modernization in some ways, adding in things like electricity and running water. However, the haphazard nature of construction is a clear nod to the past. Touring Chew Jetty is a stark contrast to some of the more contemporary buildings you’ll in Penang.

9. Penang National Park [SEE MAP]

To experience the natural, pristine side of the island, take time to visit Penang National Park. The park boasts a wide range of terrains and landscapes, which means that you can hike through jungles and then relax on the beach without leaving the borders of the same park. Popular beaches like Monkey Beach and Teluk Kampi are also located in the park. Penang National Park is one of the most popular spots to hike and camp on the island. Much of the area is virgin jungle, so a guided hike might be best for those new to such rugged terrain.

8. Khoo Kongsi [SEE MAP]

In centuries past, Penang’s Hokkien community was comprised of several clans. The Khoo clan was one of the largest. Like other clans, the Khoo constructed a large clan house called the Khoo Kongsi. This structure still stands, despite its age of over 650 years. It is located in Cannon Square in the heart of the oldest part of George Town. The building has a clear Chinese influence that reflects the Hokkien culture. If you visit, you’ll be able to see the ornate stone carvings, the granite dragons, the gold details and the beautiful paper lamps overhead. For history or architecture lovers, Khoo Kongsi is a memorable stop in Penang.

7. Tropical Spice Garden [SEE MAP]

One of the most interesting gardens in Penang is the Tropical Spice Garden. The gardens emphasize local plants, spices and herbs. Malaysian cuisine is well known for its spices, so it’s a fantastic way to see those mystery ingredients in their most natural stage. The Tropical Spice Garden also has a cooking school right on the premises. After a stroll around the gardens, you can head to a cooking class. Fresh herbs and produce get plucked straight from the garden and go into the dishes you’ll learn how to make. For foodies, the Tropical Spice Garden in Batu Ferringhi is a must-see attraction.

6. Batu Ferringhi [SEE MAP]

On the northern coast of the island is Batu Ferringhi, one of the biggest tourist hubs in Penang. You’ll find stretches of sandy coastline as well as plenty of restaurants, nightlife options and accommodation. Though the beach is popular it can be dirty when there are crowds, and jellyfish can also be a concern. If you’re willing to walk away from the crowds a little, you can find the Muka Head Lighthouse. From the lighthouse tower, you’ll have an unparalleled view over the coast. After a day at the beach working up an appetite, make your way to the Teluk Bahang Pier, where there is a great collection of incredible seafood restaurants to choose from.

5. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion [SEE MAP]

In the heart of George Town, Penang’s capital, is Cheong Fatt Tze. Also known as the Blue Mansion, this structure dates back to the end of the 19th century. The building is a traditional Chinese mansion, built using exclusively the best materials from around the world. It was unusual at the time for such a wealthy person to build a mansion in the Chinese and Hakka style. Clearly, Cheong Fatt Tze has stood the test of time. Still in remarkable condition, the mansion is now a hotel as well as a major tourism attraction. Today, you can take an architectural tour, stop in for a delicious meal or even spend the night.

4. Penang Hill [SEE MAP]

To enjoy some of the best views of Penang, make your way to the top of Penang Hill. You can access the summit via the Penang Hill Railway, which is a short five-minute ride to the top. At the top of Penang Hill, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas as well as slightly cooler temperatures than the city of George Town below. You can also take a buggy tour of the peak, spotting a variety of beautiful historic homes along the way. You can opt to hike to the top of Penang Hill, but many people choose the railway on the way up and a casual stroll on the way down.

3. Kek Lok Si Temple [SEE MAP]

The Kek Lok Si Temple is considered to be one of the largest Buddhist temples in all of Asia. The temple is located in Air Itam, it faces the sea, and it was opened in 1905. Not just a temple, Kek Lok Si is a true complex. It is comprised of several prayer halls, monasteries, gardens and statues. The most visited landmark within the temple is the Kuan Yin Statue. You can ride a unique slanted elevator to get to the statue, which is housed in an octagonal pavilion. Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Penang.

2. Penang Street Art [SEE MAP]

Although Penang boasts plenty of historic artifacts and ancient temples, there is also a vibrant contemporary art scene. In George Town, you can check out what is known as Penang Street Art. This is a collection of art found not in a museum or a gallery, but right on the walls of the city. The works are done by a Lithuanian artist called Ernest Zacharevic. As you stroll through George Town, you might spot some of these pieces on your own.

Many of the works feature children. On Armenian Street for example, look for the mural titled, “Little Children on a Bicycle”. You can grab a map that guides you straight to the best works, or you can join a guided walking tour that can reveal some of the hidden gems that are utilizing the city itself as a blank canvas.

1. Pinang Peranakan Mansion [SEE MAP]

One of the must-see attractions in the heart of George Town is the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. Peranakan is the name for the Chinese immigrants who came to Malaysia around the 16th century. Over time, this group developed its own unique culture, cuisine and even dialect. The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a window into this world. When you visit, you can see how a wealthy Peranakan family lived more a century ago. You’ll have the chance to admire carved Chinese wooden panels, the Scottish ironworks and the staggering collection of antiquities from around the world. This is a kind of living museum, and it is a fantastic way to explore the Peranakan culture.

Best Time to Visit Penang Island

With much less rain and very slightly cooler weather, the best months to visit Penang Island are from December through to February. This popular period is not just ideal for sightseeing, sunbathing and swimming but trekking and camping in the jungle too. While it’s still hot and humid, averages of 31 or 32°C (88 to 89°F) are more manageable without the torrential rain.

As most people visit then, prices are at their highest with December being the absolute peak season due to the Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Chinese New Year’s in January or February also attracts lots of visitors.

After this, March gets extremely hot and humid with both April and May counting among its rainiest months. Many visit however for the Hari Raya festivities at the end of Ramadan and for Buddha’s Birthday celebrations.

Due to the holidays, crowds of people head to Penang in July and August though each sees between 16 and 18 days with at least some rain. If you can brave the showers, there are fun events such as the Hungry Ghost Festival and Independence Day to enjoy.

As September to November is incredibly rainy, most tourists stay away. Besides benefitting from cheaper prices, you can also attend the important Nine Emperor Gods Festival.

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20 Places to Visit in Penang and Georgetown + Things To Do

Penang is one of the most storied states in Malaysia and at its heart is the state capital of Tanjung Penaga or George Town, whose historical core has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2008.

As the first British settlement in Asia, George Town offers a preview of the past within its well-preserved walls while generously providing options for the chic traveler to enjoy the journey. Suffice it to say the city has the best of both worlds—a frozen-in-time surrounding with the modern lifestyle’s cravings. Some of the attractions worth visiting in Georgetown include the Kek Lok Si Temple complex, Khoo Kongsi, Fort Cornwallis, Old Penang Town Hall, and Gurney Plaza. You may also treat yourself to see the other highlights in Penang state while you are here by visiting Penang Hill, Penang Hill Tram Ride, and Batu Ferringhi Beach.

Traveling to Penang and George Town is a breeze for those coming from major Asian cities because the state is well-served by an international airport near Bayan Lepas. Penang International Airport has daily flights to Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Jakarta, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, and Bangkok.

To help with your trip planning, I’ve added links to the locations on Google Maps. Feel free to click/tap on the links posted below. Then, use the “save” feature on the Google Maps app for easy reference. But before you start ticking goals off your bucketlist, here are travel essentials & discounts you’ll need to check. Pre-book online for a hassle-free trip!

Penang travel essentials

Click below to compare rates & read reviews:

Penang Hotels Tours + discounts Flights

View all travel tips on: Penang .

1. Kek Lok Si Temple

Location : Air Itam, Penang Island, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

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2. Penang Hill

Location : 11500 Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

See rates & book online

Penang Hill and Temple Sightseeing

The Habitat Penang Hill Admission Ticket

3. Penang Hill Tram Ride

Location : Penang Hill, Bukit Bendera, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

4. Penang Food Trip

5. Fort Cornwallis

Location : Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

6. Queen Victoria Memorial Clock Tower

Location : Lebuh Light, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

7. Old Penang Town Hall & City Hall

Location : Georgetown, 10200 George Town, Penang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

8. Temple of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin Teng) / Kong Hock Keong

Location : 30, Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

9. Kapitan Keling Mosque

Location : 14, Jalan Buckingham, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

10. Acheen Street Mosque (Lebuh Aceh Mosque / Masjid Jamek)

Location : Aceh Street Mosque, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

11. Little India

Location : Lebuh Pasar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

12. Sri Mahamariamman Hindu Temple

Location : Lebuh Queen, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

13. Yap Kongsi Temple

Location : Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

14. Seh Tek Tong Cheah Kongsi Clan Temple

Location : 8, Lebuh Armenian, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

15. Love Lane

16. St George’s Anglican Church

Location : 1, Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

17. Church of the Assumption

Location : Lebuh Farquhar, George Town, 10450 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

18. Malaysian Railway Building (Wisma Kastam)

Location : Gat Lebuh China, George Town, 10300 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

19. Abandoned Shin Chung Branch School

Location : 11, Jalan Transfer, George Town, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

20. Christian Cemetery

Location : 4, Lorong Midlands, George Town, 10250 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia . Save on Google Maps .

What places have you added to your bucketlist? Have you been to beautiful places in Penang that should be on this list? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Places to visit in Penang

Penang tourist spots, things to do in Penang, where to go in Penang & more.

Note: Destinations featured above are not listed by rank.

Where to Stay in Penang

Click below & search recommended Penang hotels/hostels/home rentals within your budget. Remember to set your  min/max price , travel dates, and  sort by review ratings . I often book online with these trusted booking sites below for rock-bottom prices & convenient bookings.

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Book sooner rather than later if you already have your dates set. Cheaper-priced rooms and hotels with high reviews tend to get fully booked faster, especially during busy days like weekends, holidays & peak tourist seasons.

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Home » Southeast Asia » Malaysia » Penang

24 BEST Places to Visit in Penang (2024)

Spread across a strip along the mainland peninsula and a fairly large island, Malaysia’s state of Penang is famous for being one of the world’s premier places for mouth-watering street food. It also boasts an abundance of beautiful architecture, plentiful historic and religious sites, places of natural interest, and beaches.

Due to the state’s spread-out nature, deciding where to visit each day can be tricky. You don’t want to waste time travelling between hotspots only to later discover there were other cool places close to hand.

We’ve done the research so that you don’t miss any of Penang’s highlights. Add these best places to visit in Penang to your itinerary for an epic trip to the island:

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Penang:

These are the best places to visit in penang, faq on the best places to visit in penang, final thoughts on penang’s best places.

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, George Town has an abundance of churches and temples, pre-war architecture, and a lively arts and culture scene.

• Admire the colonial architecture of Wisma Kastam.
• Go for a stroll along Gurney Drive.
• Take a graffiti spotting tour through the city.

And now, onto the good stuff … here are the best places to visit in Penang!

Visit Penang with peace of mind that you’re seeing the very best places the state has to offer…

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#1 Monkey Beach

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• Great for swimming!
• Not very crowded
• Inside of an epic national park!
• Go on either a jungle hike or boat

Why it’s awesome: This is one of those tourist attractions you just can’t miss when you visit Penang Island! The secluded beach is located deep inside Penang National Park, which is worth a trip on its own. The best thing about the beach is you can only reach it via hike or boat!

Relax on the sand, swim, or grab some grub at one of the on-site beach shacks. At over 1km long, it’s Penang’s longest stretch of sand.

What to do there : Relax on the sand, take a dip in the water, or even charter a local boat to explore the area. Spot the native Macaque monkeys, and spend the night at the beach campsite to check out sunrise and sunset! The entrance fee is RM50 for foreigners.

#2 See the Amazing Floating Mosque

• A mosque built on stilts!
• Free to enter
• Iconic design
• Gives insight into Islam in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: The Tanjung Bungah Floating mosque is a stunning architectural marvel that we’d definitely consider a must-see while you’re visiting Penang. Its unique location makes it appear as if it is literally floating – you most likely have never seen another mosque like it.

What to do there : Walk around the grounds and take in the peace and beauty. It’s also not a good idea to visit during prayer times out of respect.

#3 – Chulia Street Night Market

• Huge assortment of street food
• Affordable prices
• Lively and friendly atmosphere
• Terrific photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Chulia Street Night Market is one of the best places in Penang for a wide array of delicious street food—and that’s quite an achievement in a city that’s world-renowned for its incredible street food scene . There are a number of small sit-down eateries as well as an abundance of hawker stalls and basic tables and chairs where you can dine on the streets. Dishes reflect the country’s mixed heritage, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and local fusion fare all available. You can expect Indian style curries, iconic Penang prawn noodles, and thousands of dishes in between. Prices are reasonable too.

What to do there: Stroll along the lively Chulia Street Night Market watching as vendors cook an assortment of dishes on the spot, the scents of cooking wafting through the air, the sizzling sounds breaking through the chatter, and the sights that are sure to tempt you.

If you’re into food photography this is a terrific place to indulge in your hobby. Of course, it’s also a fantastic place to get your fill of delicious street food. Be sure

#4 – Kek Lok Si Temple

• Striking hilltop temple
• Biggest Buddhist temple in Malaysia
• Major pilgrimage site
• See various cultural practices

Why it’s awesome: The large and detailed Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si is perched on a high hill overlooking the surroundings. The extensive complex is the nation’s largest Buddhist temple and it attracts mainly devout Buddhists who want to make merit, worship, and pay their respects. The architecture and religious practices reflect different branches of Buddhism.

The ornate temple dates back to the 1890s, built using donations from a number of wealthy Chinese businessmen, and there have been a number of striking additions over the years. Spread over three main zones and with beautiful architecture, fascinating statues, splendid gardens, and terrific views, there’s definitely plenty to appreciate at the important temple.

What to do there: Marvel at the soaring seven-level pagoda adorned with thousands of statues of the Lord Buddha, and notice the blend of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese influences in its design. Be impressed by the towering 36-metre-tall (120-foot-tall) bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kuan Yin). Find your Chinese zodiac birth animal among the 12 statues.

Stroll through the pleasant gardens and soak up the pretty views. Watch turtles and fish swimming in the ponds, spend some time in quiet reflection in one of the prayer halls, see devotees performing various religious rituals, buy a range of souvenirs, amulets, and religious memorabilia, and call into the restaurant for a tasty and filling vegetarian meal.

#5 – Pinang Peranakan Museum

• Learn more about Peranakan heritage and culture
• Eye-catching artefacts
• Housed in a historic mansion
• One of Penang’s best museums

Why it’s awesome: Pinang Peranakan Mansion tells the story of the area’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese) past. The building, built in the 1890s, was once the home of a wealthy Chinese businessman, and it has been restored to showcase its former splendour. Rooms are decorated and arranged so as to transport people back in time and the museum is filled with numerous antiques and items from the Peranakan community. The museum is so well curated and the collections so vast that it has received many accolades and been featured in various TV shows.

What to do there: Admire the handsome green building from the outside, noting the blend of Chinese, European, and Malaysian elements. Peranakans maintained their own customs while also adopting those from their new area (the Straits) and later from colonial influences, leading to a unique way of life and culture. Explore the museum’s rooms and courtyards, filled with beautiful details and objects.

You’ll see things like exquisitely carved wood, ceramic floor tiles, decorative room screens, and more than 1,000 gorgeous antiques. See the statue of the mansion’s former owner standing inside the adjacent small shrine.

#6 – Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

• Insane design!
• A UNESCO award winner
• Movies have been shot here!
• Bucket-list experience

Why it’s awesome: The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is no doubt one of the coolest places to see in Malaysia. Nicknamed the Blue Mansion for obvious reasons, it’s also an epic boutique hotel these days. The iconic home once belonged to a 19th Chinese tycoon of the industrialist era. The home eventually went under some major renovations that even earned it a UNESCO award. The property continues to welcome guests and has even appeared in major films, including the mega-hit Crazy Rich Asians.

What to do there: Book a tour for either 11 AM, 2 PM, or 3:30 PM. For the full experience, you can book a luxury stay in one of their rooms.

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#7 – Snake Temple

• Home to many snakes
• Long history
• Surrounded in local legends
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Snake Temple was constructed in the early 1800s to honour a Chinese Buddhist monk, Chor Soo Kong. He was known for doing many kind deeds, particularly tending to the sick and assisting snakes. Local lore says that when the temple was built, pit vipers just started to appear there. Today, lots of snakes lounge throughout the temple. Although locals believe that the incense smoke makes the snakes harmless, they have been de-venomed to be on the safe side!

What to do there: Wander around the temple complex and stare in fascination at the numerous snakes who call the religious site home. See snakes draped across the shrines, coiled around statues and columns, hanging from branches, and in almost any place you could think of! Most of the resident snakes are pit vipers, though you’ll also spot a number of other species. Visit the breeding centre and learn more about the slithery and often misunderstood creatures. You can also enjoy the attractive details of the temple.

#8 – Penang National Park

• Rich array of flora and fauna
• Diverse landscapes
• Great outdoor activities
• Youngest national park in Malaysia

Why it’s awesome: Despite being fairly small, covering just 2997 acres (1,213 hectares) of land and sea, Penang National Park boasts a wide assortment of plants and animals and also has diverse terrain within its boundaries. There are several habitats in the park not found elsewhere in the country and it’s one of the nation’s most biodiverse parts. Furthermore, the national park also has historical and archaeological elements and great views.

There are long beaches, mangroves, and wildlife-rich forests, with creatures calling the park home including turtles, otters, dolphins, monkeys, mouse deer, wild boar, and various species of bird. Plants include the delicate orchids, the unusual pitcher plants, sea almonds, bonsai trees, and various herbs.

What to do there: Soak up the splendid vistas and bask on the sandy shores of pretty beaches like Pantai Mas, Pasir Pandak, Teluk Kerachut, Tanjung Ailing, and Teluk Bahang. See the unusual meromictic lake, a lake where the waters don’t mix and the different colours can clearly be seen. Spot various creatures and plants and follow the two long nature trails. Be sure to wear sensible footwear!

Get a bird’s eye view of the forests and beaches from the 15-metre-high (49-foot-high) canopy walkway. Visit other places of interest within the park, such as Muka Head Lighthouse and the old Hokkien cemetery. There are natural swimming pools where you can take a dip and cool down and you’ll find plenty of nice places for a picnic. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also camp within the national park.

#9 – Batu Feringghi

• Popular white-sand beach
• Water-based activities
• Diverse places of interest close to hand
• Lively nightlife

Why it’s awesome: One of the most popular destinations in Penang with Malaysia backpackers , Batu Feringghi boasts a long, sandy beach and offers beautiful views. Previously a quiet village with a long history, today the area has an abundance of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. A pleasant place to watch the sun go down, Batu Feringghi is also known for its cool laid-back night scene, with plenty of bars sitting close to the beach. While you’ll find plenty of ways to spend money if you wish, visiting the beach and enjoying the vibe doesn’t cost a single Ringgit.

What to do there: Sunbathe on the soft sands of Batu Feringghi beach and admire the views of the shimmering emerald waters meeting the horizon. Stay until later on in the day to witness a beautiful sunset over the ocean. Although the waters generally aren’t considered great for swimming there are various water-based activities that you can enjoy, including parasailing, riding on banana boats, jet skiing, and kayaking. Kids and adults alike can have heaps of fun at Wet World Wild, with its many inflatable features. Browse a wide range of goods and feast on street food at the lively Batu Feringghi night market.

#10 – Penang Batik Factory

• Learn more about traditional batik
• Watch artists at work
• Buy beautiful handmade items
• Free guided tours

Why it’s awesome: Penang Batik Factory was set up in 1973 and it shows the skills that go into creating stunning textile art. Artisans can make a living at the small cottage industry and tourists can see exactly how pieces are made, appreciating items a lot more than simply seeing them in a showroom. Each artist has their own specialty. The factory has three sections: a boutique, an art gallery, and a workshop. There are free tours of the facility and you aren’t overly pressured to make a purchase.

What to do there: Watch artists at work in the workshop and see the precision and talent that goes into creating traditional batik designs. See artisans hand drawing patterns, colouring in designs, and using blocks to create imprints on fabrics. Items here are atypical in that they have patterns on both sides of the fabric. Visit the art gallery to admire a wide selection of batik artworks in all sizes and colours. You may even wish to make a special purchase to add something unusual to your home. If you’re more interested in batik clothing call into the boutique, where you’ll find various garments for men, women, and children.

#11 – Dhammikarama Burmese Temple

• Penang’s first Burmese Buddhist temple
• Retreat for Buddhist monks
• Traditional details created by Burmese craftspeople

Why it’s awesome: Founded in the early 1800s, Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is the oldest Burmese temple in Penang. It has strong links to women, having been established on land donated by a wealthy lady and several female trustees. Expanded and altered over the years, the temple was initially constructed from wood and later rebuilt using sturdier materials. It displays typical Burmese features throughout and skilled Burmese artisans were commissioned to ensure accuracy and authenticity. The temple also serves as a monastery, with Buddhist monks living onsite.

What to do there: Walk through the red and golden gateway, complete with large elephant statues and traditional Burmese designs and topped with the umbrella-like spire. Stand in front of the stupa, which is the oldest part of the complex, having been consecrated in the year 1805.

Rest in the shade of the sacred Boddhi tree, see the monk’s living quarters (from outside), and view the large collection of Buddha statues in various postures and detailed murals. Look for interesting statues of mythical creatures too, including the garuda, chinthe, and panca rupa. Enjoy the peaceful and serene ambience and watch as local devotees come here to pray and seek blessings.

#12 – Penang Jewish Cemetery – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Penang

• Peaceful ambience
• Lesser-visited spot
• One of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Southeast Asia
• Legacy of a disappearing community

Why it’s awesome: Surrounded by high walls, the quiet Jewish Cemetery is one of the last traces of Penang’s former Jewish community. Even the old synagogue closed down back in the 1970s. The cemetery gates are often kept locked, but people wishing to visit can knock and the custodian will come and let you in.

It is thought that the last local Jew passed away in 2011, his grave the most recent in the lonely cemetery, thus ending Penang’s Jewish community. Neat rows of graves bear witness to the fact that there were once fairly substantial numbers of Jews resident in Penang. The interesting cemetery sees very few visitors.

What to do there: Chat with the cemetery keeper and learn a little bit about Penang’s former Jewish community and hear whispers from yesteryear as you walk through the rows of gravestones. Pay your respects to the deceased and wonder about the now lost local community. See the oldest grave in the burial ground, which dates back to 1835, as well as the newest grave from 2011.

You’ll notice that the memorials are in a typical Middle Eastern style and that most of the inscriptions are in Hebrew. You’re sure to feel as though you’ve stepped away from the tried and tested tourist path and are discovering new insights into Penang’s past.

#13 – Kapitan Keling Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Penang

• Built by Indian Muslims
• Open to non-Muslims (with permission from officials)

Why it’s awesome: Kapitan Keling Mosque – set in one of George Town’s central areas – is a gorgeous mosque. It was built in the early 19 th century by some of the earliest Indian Muslim immigrants to Penang. Designed in an Indo-Moorish style, it also has Gothic and Roman elements. A golden dome sits atop the pale building with a high minaret alongside. There are typical Islamic details, such as calligraphy of passages from the Islamic holy book (the Quran), floral imagery, geometric patterns, and colourful stained glass.

What to do there: Listen out for the lilting call to prayer, issued five times each day from the minaret by the muezzin calling the faithful. Walk along the sweeping path to reach the main building, complete with its glorious dome, passing elegant archways alongside. Look inside the prayer hall to see ornate prayer rugs scattered across the marble floor, rich traditional designs, and a beautiful chandelier. Do note that you should dress modestly to visit the mosque and will need to get permission to look inside if you are not from the Muslim faith.

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#14 – Butterworth

• Main town on Penang’s peninsula mainland
• Uncrowded compared with more popular places in Penang
• Local vibes
• Varied attractions and activities

Why it’s awesome: While most people see Penang as synonymous with George Town with its UNESCO status, there’s a whole bunch more to explore in the state’s mainland areas too. Butterworth is the main town in mainland Penang and it has a variety of attractions and activities to keep you busy on a day trip. If you’re wondering where to stay in Malaysia to explore Penang but still avoid the tourist life, Butterworth is a fine choice with some of Penangs best Airbnb’s available. Crowds are smaller than on the island and it’s a great place to immerse yourself in local life. The area boasts beaches, beautiful temples, lively markets, and more.

What to do there: Take a walk along the beach or relax at the seaside at hotspots like Pantai Bersih and Bagan Ajam. Get a glimpse of local beliefs at the Taoist temple of the Nine Emperor Gods, one of the town’s biggest places of worship. Snap pictures of the large pagodas, vibrant colours, statues of Chinese deities, and ornate decorative touches.

You can also experience local Indian culture at the lavish Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Hindu Temple. Butterworth Bird Park is a lovely place for a family outing, home to many avian species from across the globe. Don’t miss the large and lively Apollo Market for street food, fresh produce, and knickknacks.

#15 – Upside Down Museum

• Fun for people of all ages
• Unusual attraction
• Fabulous photo opportunities
• See the world from a different perspective

Why it’s awesome: Penang’s Upside Down Museum is a cool museum where, as the name suggests, everything is upside down. With furnishings and other common items firmly attached to the top of each room, you really can feel like your world has been turned upside down and that you’re walking like Spiderman suctioned to the ceiling. You won’t just find typical rooms of a house here; there’s even a topsy turvy market, café, and others. There are fantastic photo opportunities and it’s an unusual and fun place for both children and adults.

What to do there: Walk through the upside-down bedroom, kitchen, living room, and bathroom, posing for lots of awesome pictures that seem to defy gravity. Members of staff are happy to give you pointers as to how to achieve the coolest and most realistic-looking snaps.

Everything from the beds, cupboards, desks, oven, and kitchen sink are above you, with rooms that look incredibly lifelike … except for being the wrong way round! Discover the turned around market, pose as though you’re walking down the stairs on your hands, play the piano whilst seemingly hovering above it, and have a ball!

#16 – Guar Petai – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Penang!

• Off the beaten track
• Beautiful landscapes
• Former quarry
• Excellent photo opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Nestled in a sleepy rural village on mainland Penang, Guar Petai is an old and abandoned water-filled quarry. Ponds are filled with sparkling emerald green waters and lots of lush greenery and reddish rust-coloured and sandy rocks add to the enchanting and alluring vistas. A natural splendour, it’s often pretty quiet. A great spot for photography and romantic moments, it is commonly said to resemble Jiuzhaigou in China. Even better, there’s no cost to visit this picturesque place.

What to do there: Climb to the top of the former quarry and soak up the picturesque views, admiring the contrasting colours and the way that the sun glints off the striking green waters. Snap plenty of beautiful pictures of the gorgeous terrain and enjoy the peace and quiet. Walk around the area to find even more great angles for stunning photography and terrific views.

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#17 – Design Village Penang – A great place in Penang if you love to shop!

• Largest mall in Penang
• Beautiful tropical gardens
• Wide range of goods
• Diverse places to eat and drink

Why it’s awesome: Not only is Design Village Penang the biggest mall in Penang but it is also among the largest outlet shopping centres in the entire country. Home to around 150 shops that sell a huge array of goods, you’re almost certain to find anything that you could wish to buy here. The open-concept retail village is spread across stunning tropical gardens. There are plenty of shaded seating areas in the greenery as well as a good choice of cafes and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes.

What to do there: Naturally, the main reason to visit Design Village Penang is to indulge in a spot of retail therapy! Browse in shops like Guess, Coach, Samsonite, Timberland, Pierre Cardin, Gap, Puma, and Rip Curl, treating yourself to new outfits, footwear, home items, beauty products, sportswear, and more. Admire the balance between nature and commerce as you stroll through the lush gardens, and stop to refuel in one of the great eateries.

#18 – Clan Jetties – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Penang

• Floating villages
• Traditional ways of life
• Historic vibe
• Great views

Why it’s awesome: The six Clan Jetties of Penang are old water villages that were built by Chinese groups. Initially a wood yard and later a place where people would load and offload boats, workers began to build small huts along the wooden jetties. More and more of these basic stilted properties were constructed, creating entire small villages of stilt houses over the water.

Each jetty was associated with a specific clan of Chinese immigrants, and several clans still call the jetties home today: the Chew, Tan, Lim, Yeoh, and Lee, plus a mixed clan jetty (Snaeh). In the past, there were even more such jetties stretching along the waterfront. People still live at the jetties today and traditional ways of life prevail.

What to do there: Start with a visit to the Chew Clan Jetty and take a walk along the sturdy planks, passing local homes and stores. Inhale the scents of incense burning at small shrines outside dwellings and call into the small temple that sits over the water. Get a glimpse of a different way of life and appreciate the wooden structures that are simple but cosy and functional.

See small boats bobbing on the waves and soak up the views; the sunset vistas are especially pretty. If you want to experience more of life in the villages, visit some of the area’s other Clan Jetties too. Do remember to act respectfully, keep the noise down, and be courteous with your photography as these are still private dwellings where people live and go about their day-to-day business.

#19 – Dark Mansion

• Glow-in-the-dark scenes
• Interactive art

Why it’s awesome: The Dark Mansion is one of Penang’s quirkier museums. It’s the country’s only 3D glow-in-the-dark museum, open since 2016. Using technology and science to enhance an arty experience, the museum not only has cool 3D paintings that let you appear as though you’re in a variety of scenes but it also has a glowing effect. Visitors can see the art in normal lighting and then in the dark, with special lighting, to appreciate how the picture changes. It’s certainly lots of fun and you’re sure to come away with many amazing photos.

What to do there: Immerse yourself in various scenes while your friends (or a helpful member of staff) snap plenty of pictures of you. Witness the transformation of art under different lighting conditions and play around with different props. Highlights include the magical glow-in-the-dark forest, complete with various creatures, the dazzling scenes of the night sky, and a cool radiant bridge.

Travel back in time and feel a pang of nostalgia as you pass through the time tunnel and marvel at the celebrated Edgar Muller piece called Fire and Water, which is the biggest anamorphic glow-in-the-dark image in the world.

#20 – Sri Mahamariamman Temple

• Penang’s oldest Hindu temple
• Eye-catching colours and details
• Strong sense of spirituality
• Home to many pigeons

Why it’s awesome: The melting pot of culture is just one of the many good reasons to travel to Malaysia . From Islam to Buddhism to (Tamil) Hindu, bring your shoulder covering, because we’re going temple hunting!

Having started life as a simple shrine back in the early 1800s, the present temple building of Penang’s Sri Mahamariamman Temple was constructed in 1833. Built by early Tamil Indian migrants, it is the oldest Hindu temple in the state. Colourful with many ornate features, it’s a fabulous place to admire architectural beauty and religious art. The ambience is simultaneously energetic and peaceful, with many devotees coming here to perform prayers and religious rituals each day.

What to do there: Make sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering the temple grounds. Admire the vibrant gopurum (entrance tower) with its many intricate carvings of Hindu deities, animals, flowers, symbols, and other features. Standing at almost 24 metres (78 feet) tall, it has four tiers and is meant to represent Mount Meru, which is said to be the mountain that supports the heavens in Hindu mythology.

You’ll notice that many pigeons have set up home in the tower too. Appreciate the many fine details within the complex and see the large statue of Lord Subramaniam inside the domed main building. Soak up the spiritual air and visit the nearby Indian stores and restaurants.

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#21 – Penang State Museum and Art Gallery

• Discover local history, heritage, and culture
• See impressive artworks
• Home to a large collection of artefacts
• Housed in a gorgeous building

Why it’s awesome: Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is housed within a striking architectural gem that was once home to Penang Free School. It became a museum in the mid-1960s. It contains both an awesome art gallery and an informative museum with lots of artefacts and displays. Items include state and national treasures and there are constantly changing art exhibits in addition to the impressive permanent collections. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in delving deeper into the area’s past and culture.

What to do there: Take time to appreciate the diverse collections in the museums, seeing items such as furnishings, traditional clothes, weapons, old transportation methods, tools, ceramics, silverware, and jewellery. The hand-written Quran is especially interesting.

There’s good information as to the significance of the diverse exhibits and you can learn more about Penang’s multi-ethnic, multi-racial, and multi-cultural community. In the art gallery you’ll find eight treasured paintings by Captain Robert Smith as well as plenty of other works. Travel back in time as you see old black and white photographs of Penang in times gone by. You can buy a selection of merchandise too.

#22 – St. Anne’s Church

• Off-the-beaten-track religious building
• Serene and spiritual ambience
• Old and new places of worship side by side
• Important pilgrimage site

Why it’s awesome: Located in Bukit Mertajam on Penang’s mainland peninsula, St. Anne’s Church is a lesser-visited spot with a long history and steeped in religious significance. While the yearly ten-day Feast of St. Anne celebrations are lively, drawing devotees from around the nation and beyond, the church is quiet and tranquil at other times of the year.

The original chapel was built in 1846, with a later church (now known as the Shrine of St. Anne) constructed in 1888. The nearby 2002-built church is a modern juxtaposition. It’s one of the country’s biggest Christian churches and it features traditional Malay designs. There are ancient megaliths close by. An active place of worship, mass is held in several languages depending on the day of the week.

What to do there: Spend some quiet moments of reflection and contemplation at the old St. Anne’s Shrine and appreciate the beautiful stained glass above the altar. See the large statue of St. Anne (Mary’s mother) with the Virgin Mary as a child in front of the newer church, pray at the Catholic Stations of the Cross, and view the Cherok Tokun Relics. Within the sanctuary’s grounds, the Cherok Tokun Relics are ancient rock inscriptions on a granite megalith. Enjoy the serene air and soak up the religious atmosphere.

#23 – Upper Penang Road

• Various bars, karaoke spots, and nightclubs
• Wide choice of places to eat
• Energetic atmosphere
• Blend of architectural styles

Why it’s awesome: Upper Penang Road, located in George Town, is the epicentre of Penang’s nightlife scene . During the day there are many shops to browse in and the street also hosts the monthly Little Penang Street Market. Held on the last Sunday of each month, stalls offer everything from crafts and clothing to souvenirs and food, and there is often live entertainment to add to the carnival-like air.

Heritage buildings are interspersed with modern day street art. At night time the street attracts many revellers, including both locals and tourists. There are plenty of places to enjoy dinner before starting your night out on the tiles, with street food stalls aplenty and sit-down restaurants. Bars and nightclubs keep people happy until the wee small hours. There are some of Penang’s best hostels here if you decide to base yourself in this area!

What to do there: Walk along the historic street in the daytime to see the different architectural styles and peer into the shops and boutiques. Enjoy a romantic meal in the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant, savouring delicious cuisine as you soak up the panoramic views, or feast on street food, visit another high-class eatery, and discover many local specialities.

Mingle with the party-loving crowds in the vibrant bars and maybe hit up a karaoke joint to warble your favourite songs. Visit a roadside bar to sit outside on the pavement and watch the world go by. Hop between the various bars and clubs and bust out your best moves on the dancefloor, accompanied by neon lighting and banging tunes.

#24 – Fort Cornwallis

• Malaysia’s longest standing fortress
• Unusual lighthouse
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: The star-shaped Fort Cornwallis was built in the early 1800s on the site of an earlier wooden fort. It was constructed by the British East India Company to protect the island, though it never saw any attacks. Today listed as an Ancient Monument and Historic Site, the fort provides terrific views over the sea. Old cannons still stand to attention through the grounds and there are various displays and buildings throughout the large park within the walls.

What to do there: Walk around the fortress’s outer walls and soak up the splendid vistas. Inside, see the proud statue of Captain Francis Light near the entrance and the many historic cannons that were intended to keep the island safe. Don’t miss the cannon called Seri Rambai—locals see this piece of artillery as a symbol of fertility, and you’ll likely notice offerings

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Find out what people want to know about Penang’s attractions.

What are some of the best places in Penang for couples?

Have a romantic meal at the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant on Upper Penang Road and take in views of George Town below.

What are the best places to visit in Penang at night?

Hit up the Chulia Street Night Market for some of the incredible local street food that Penang is famous for!

What are some great free things to do in Penang?

You’ve just got to explore the fun and interactive murals that cover the crumbling walls of the city, search them out as you wander the streets!

What are the most unique places to visit in Penang?

If you’re feeling brave then head to Snake Temple where you guessed it, half the local visitors are of the scaly variety!

Penang has myriad places of worship that reflect the area’s multi-cultural and multi-ethnic make-up; the Goddess of Mercy Temple, St. George’s Church, Admiral Zheng He Footprint Temple, and the Thai temple of Wat Chayamangkalaram are just a few more to add to your list. Other top museums to visit include the Toy Museum, War Museum, Wonderfood Museum, Chocolate Museum, Penang Tunnel Museum, and Sun Yat-Sen Museum. There’s definitely lots of diversity!

Wander through the Tropical Spice Garden and take kids to Penang Butterfly Farm. Feast your eyes on the ornate Chinese clan building of Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. Feel a thrill as you walk across the towering Rainbow Skywalk, have an immersive experience at Penang 3D Trick Art Museum, climb Penang Hill (or take the impressive Penang Hill funicular), take a day trip to Jerejak Island, and discover the many species of flora in the Penang Botanical Gardens.

With lots of heritage buildings and places of worship, delectable street food, beaches, museums to suit all interests, family-friendly attractions, places of natural interest, and plenty of ways to find nocturnal fun, make sure to check off these best places to visit in Penang on your next visit to the Malaysian gem.

Updated April 2023

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• Tourist Attractions

Scenic Penang Hill Experience

Penang is a popular tourist destination in Malaysia, attracting people from around the world with its incredible cultural heritage, lively street art, mouthwatering cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes.

PHBR is fully aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals and supports the United Nations’ initiative to promote eco-friendly, responsible, and sustainable tourism.

As defined by the World Tourism Organization, sustainable tourism considers current and future impacts on the economy, society, environment, visitors, industry, and host communities.

The United Nations General Assembly declared 2017 the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. It creates jobs, promotes local culture and products, and closely monitors the impact of development on various aspects, such as the environment, economy, and communities.

PHBR supports sustainable tourism by cultivating environmental awareness, protecting and conserving biodiversity and ecosystems, celebrating cultural diversity, and enhancing the well-being of local communities for a sustainable future.

One of PHBR’s objectives is to promote ecotourism as a responsible and sustainable form of nature tourism.

The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) defines ecotourism as “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education.”

Ecotourism can be defined as responsible travel that focuses on experiencing and learning about natural environments and local communities. Non-invasive in nature, ethical travel aims to support sustainable initiatives through low-impact and responsible consumption.  

Ecotourism helps protect and encourages stewardship of natural and cultural resources and boosts the local economy.

These ecotourism sites offer visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of the rainforest while promoting sustainable tourism practices that support the conservation of both the ecosystem and the conserved heritage.

By engaging in ecotourism activities within the biosphere reserve, visitors can learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna and support local conservation efforts.

Ecotourism can be defined as responsible travel that focuses on experiencing and learning about natural environments and local communities. Non-invasive in nature, ethical travel aims to support sustainable initiatives through low-impact and responsible consumption.

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8 Best Things To Do in Batu Feringhi

What is batu feringhi most famous for.

The best things to do in Batu Feringhi are an interesting and eclectic mix of modern and quirky offerings, as well as natural and cultural attractions. The coastal resort of Penang offers an array of delightful activities to indulge in. You can stroll along a scenic promenade, relishing the gentle sea breeze and breathtaking sunsets. 

Adventure lovers can engage in exhilarating watersports, including jetskiing and parasailing. Discover a bustling night market,  where vibrant stalls offer unique local crafts and delicious street food. Thanks to its seaside location, indulging in fresh seafood is a popular thing to do in Batu Feringhi. 

What are the best things to do in Batu Ferringhi?

Batu ferringhi beach.

Batu Ferringhi Beach is one of the most stunning shorelines on Penang Island – imagine powder-white sands spilling out onto turquoise blue waters that stretch up the northern peninsula. Just a 15-minute drive from the center of George Town, the best way to enjoy this beautiful strip of sand is to bring a beach blanket and soak up the sun's rays.

If sunbathing isn't your thing, we recommend visiting one of the watersports operators that are located along the beach to rent a kayak, jet ski, or banana boat for some splashing fun. Most of Batu Ferringhi Beach is occupied by luxury hotels, but there are a few public beaches – simply drive along the strip to find the best ones.

Penang Batik Factory

The Penang Batik Factory is one of the pioneers of batik manufacturing on the island. Established in 1973 by Craft Batik Sdn Bhd, it is set in Teluk Bahang, a short walk away from the Penang Botanic Gardens. The complex provides free guided tours every day.

The complex is divided into an art gallery, boutique and workshop. Surrounded by lots of tropical greenery, it is one of Penang’s most well-known sightseeing spots and offers a wide variety of quality batik, from block-print batiks to hand-drawn pieces. Each piece features patterns and colors on both sides of the fabric.

Location: 651 Mk 2 S.W.D, Teluk Bahang, 11050, Penang, Malaysia

Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm

Phone: +60 (0)4885 1284

Getting Around Penang

9 Great Restaurants in Penang

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Batu ferringhi night market.

The Batu Ferringhi Night Market takes place on Jalan Batu Feringghi every evening. Vendors set up stalls along this stretch, offering everything from handmade local souvenirs and local artworks to delicious street food and beverages. 

As one of Penang's most noteworthy attractions, many come to this night market for its cool, electrifying atmosphere. Best of all, you can still bargain for the best prices. A word of advice: if you like something, do not buy it right away. Walk along the strip, check out other stalls to see if there might be the same item offered at a better deal. If not, head back to the original stall and bargain for the best rate (which is usually half the originally quoted price).

Location: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kawasan Perumahan Sungai Emas, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Open: Daily from 7 pm to late

photo by Nurul Balqis ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

Tropical Spice Garden

The Tropical Spice Garden is a 3.2-hectare jungle with some 500 species of flora and fauna. As Southeast Asia’s only tropical spice garden, it's a great place to spend an afternoon with your kids. The conservation area has 3 garden trails that take you on 20-45-minute journeys past stream crossings, waterfalls and structures made of recycled organic materials. Its award-winning farm uses predominantly natural and recycled building materials salvaged from pre-war shophouses or sourced from local antique stores.

The Tropical Spice Garden also has a culinary school where you can learn how to prepare Malaysian dishes from scratch. It occupies an airy building surrounded by spice gardens, overlooking Teluk Bahang bay. 

Location: Lot 595 Mukim, 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Teluk Bahang, 11050 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Open: Monday and Thursday from 9 am to 4 pm, Friday–Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)

Phone: +60 (0)12-423 6797

photo by Chongkian ( CC BY-SA 4.0 ) modified

Yahong Art Gallery

Yahong Art Gallery is one of the largest centres for arts and crafts in Penang. It has 4 sections, namely the Art Gallery, Handicrafts, Batik and Jewelry & Antiques. You can see world-class works by Malaysian and Asian artists, especially Chuah Thean Teng (known as the father of modern batik printing). The upper levels prominently display his original works and those of his sons, Chuah Siew Kek, Chuah Seow Keng, and Chuah Siew Teng.

Displays at Yahong Art Gallery include Chinese jewelry, antiques, pewter works and watercolors, Chinese ink and oil paintings. You can also see a Malaysian medicine horn, a Sarawak tribal chief's staff, an exquisite Chinese cloisonné, Chinese tile pictures and more. 

Location: 58-D, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, Kampung Batu Feringgi, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Open: Monday–Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm (closed on Sundays)

Phone: +60 (0)4-881 1251

Penang National Park

The Penang National Park is one of the world’s smallest national parks. Within the park are well-marked trails that lead into the jungle and surrounding bays. It contains about 410 plant species and 143 animal species. Snakes, macaques and leaf monkeys to otters, hawksbill turtles and dolphins call this wildlife sanctuary home. 

The Penang National Park is on the west side of the island, past a twisting, forested section of road. It comprises 1,181 hectares of forest and 1,381 hectares of wetlands. Camping facilities are available – just call the Wildlife Office at Teluk Bahang for reservations. You will have to register at the office before you can enter the park. 

Location: Jalan Hassan Abbas, 11050 Teluk Bahang, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Phone: +60 (0)4-881 3530

Penang Botanic Gardens

The Penang Botanical Gardens are located in a valley along Jalan Kebun Bunga in George Town. It's a well-landscaped place containing a huge variety of indigenous and exotic plant species. It was set up by the British in 1884, specifically by Charles Curtis of the Gardens & Forests Departments Straits Settlements. 

The Penang Botanical Gardens are about 8 km from George Town. Prominent plants at the gardens include the cannonball tree, Pacific Walnut tree, pinang palm, black lily, slipper orchids and more. Some of the more interesting plants at the gardens are only open to visitors for limited hours. There is a special trek at the Penang Botanical Gardens’ Moon Gate that takes you to Penang Hill within 1 hour. 

Location: Kompleks Pentadbiran, Bangunan Pavilion, Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

Open: Monday–Friday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed on weekends)

Phone: +60 (0)4-226 4401

Tropical Fruit Farm

The Tropical Fruit Farm is a 10-hectare organic orchard in Penang. It has over 250 types of fruit trees, including durians and West Indian cherries. The garden was developed in 1993 to conserve rare and exotic fruit trees in Malaysia.

The Tropical Fruit Farm’s collection of trees include species from far-flung corners of the world, including Central and South America, Central Africa, India, the Middle East, the Caribbean and the Pacific Islands. This ecotourism venture only utilizes organic fertilizers. The Tropical Fruit Farm conducts daily guided tours where you get to sample local produce. On weekends, the orchard offers a spread of light snacks, juices and a barbecue for visitors.

Location: 18th Mile Stone, Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Teluk Bahang, Penang, Malaysia

Phone: +60 (0)12-497 1931

photo by rasmuscleve ( CC BY 2.0 ) modified

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Malaysian family learns the history of Penang Hill and enjoys its natural wonders

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The funicular train at Penang Hill. — Photos: OH SEONG POR

Penang Hill, at 833m above sea level, is surrounded by a thick rainforest that’s inhabited by numerous species of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. My family visited the place last Christmas, and we loved it.

We stayed at Hickory Bungalow, a century-old heritage building at the hill. When we got to the lower railway station in the morning, there were already many visitors queuing to board the train. Fortunately, we were able to get on the “fast track” lane because we were guests of Hickory Bungalow.

Just before reaching a tunnel, the train stopped at the Hickory Station where we alighted. From there, we walked to our accommodation, passing by many huge trees, ferns and even a small stream.

Raj, the owner and manager of the bungalow, welcomed us and ushered us to our rooms. He gave us a short tour of the surroundings. According to him, the bungalow was built in the early 1900s by a Chinese tin tycoon from Larut, Perak and was originally named “Dolce Domum”.

Later, the bungalow was sold to another Chinese tycoon, this time from Penang. After the owner passed, it was left almost completely abandoned. Raj then bought the place and restored it.

Most of the original design and structure of the bungalow has been maintained.

We went to the upper station to check out The Habitat, a discovery centre built within the rainforest at Penang Hill. Here, visitors can experience and learn about the magnificent flora and fauna of the rainforest which is estimated to be 130 million years old.

In the middle of The Habitat, there is a 13m-tall observation platform upon which you can see a 360° view of Penang. It is the highest peak and is known as the Curtis Crest Treetop Walk. My family and I climbed the three-storey steel staircase to reach the platform.

On our way back to the bungalow, I saw what is said to be the nation’s oldest post box located along Jalan Tuanku Yahya Petra. It was built by the British more than two centuries ago and is still being used today.

I also saw a family of dusky leaf monkeys sitting on a canopy at the station.

While my wife, daughters and I went back to our accommodation, my son volunteered to get some local delicacies at the nearby shops located after the lower station. We had a wonderful dinner together while enjoying the beautiful night view of Penang.

Looking at the narrow Penang Strait, we could see the two bridges brightly lit, linking the island and the mainland.

The next morning, everyone woke up early because we wanted to catch the sunrise. We hurriedly walked to the Hickory Station in the dark using torchlights provided by the host. We managed to get on the first train to the upper station, though there were already many passengers on board.

Once we got to the station, almost everyone walked towards the observatory corner; they seemed to know the right spot! At around 7am, the sun gradually appeared from the horizon. It was a spectacular sight.

When we returned to the bungalow, breakfast was all laid out for us by Raj at the garden overlooking the sea.

It may have been a short trip, but it was a fulfilling one with lots of fun and sweet memories with the family.

The views expressed are entirely the reader’s own.

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Tags / Keywords: Penang Hill , Readers Share , Rainforest , The Habitat , Holiday , Hickory Station , Hickory Bungalow , Dusky Leaf Monkeys , Curtis Crest Treetop Walk , domestic tourism , tourists , tourism

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Boring Tourist Attractions in Southeast Asia, 2024

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The list of the "100 Most Boring Tourist Attractions in the World for 2024" was compiled by online gaming company Solitaired through an analysis of 66.7 million Google reviews covering 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide. The analysis encompassed attractions in 384 cities across 71 countries. Analysts utilized data from these reviews to calculate boredom scores for each tourist attraction, focusing on 11 keywords indicative of tiring, lifeless, and boring impressions, in order to determine the least appealing places.

Among the attractions identified as the least appealing were the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi and Fort Cornwallis in Penang. These locations were among the "100 Most Boring Tourist Attractions in the World for 2024" according to Solitaired's analysis.

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