Discover Your Memorable Visits At Penang
Penang Tourist Attractions
A vacation to escape the chilling winter this season? Or to find a place to relax during long school holidays? Then, why not give Penang Island a try?
Penang is a perfect place for all vacationist, young and old alike. And with the scores of Penang Tourist Attractions that showcase the culture, the beauty & the charm on this lovely island - It is a trip worth visiting and remembering.
There are so much to tell about the places of interest in Penang that has developed into a unique & special characteristic.
A vacation to escape the chilling winter this season? Or to find a place to relax during long school holidays? Then, why not give Penang Island a try?
Penang is a perfect place for all vacationist, young and old alike. And with the scores of Penang Tourist Attractions that showcase the culture, the beauty & the charm on this lovely island - It is a trip worth visiting and remembering.
There are so much to tell about the places of interest in Penang that has developed into a unique & special characteristic.
Places of Worship
1.Kek Lok Si Temple, Ayer Itam
Perhaps the finest Buddhist temple in South East Asia, the Kek Lok Si temple stands majestically on a hill in Ayer Itam. Construction began in 1893 and was completed in 1905. Built in tiers, the beautifully crafted “Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas” took more than 20 years to build and was only completed in 1930. It combines a Chinese octagonal base, middle tiers of Thai architecture and a Burmese crown, reflecting the temple’s wide embrace of Mahayana and Theravada Buddhism. The temple also features gardens, a turtle pond, shrines and beautiful sculptures. This is one of Penang’s most popular attractions.
2. Cathedral of the Assumption, Lebuh Farquhar
Cathedral of Assumption’s history is almost as old as Penang itself, setup not long after the landing of Francis Light. The faithful believers have kept the current parish since the mid-19th century
3. Dharmikarama Burmese Temple, Lorong Burma
A pair of elephants guard the entrance to this Burmese temple. within the pagoda grounds is a Boddhi tree and a wishing pond. It is the scene of many festivities during the water festival in April.
4St. Anne’s Church, Bukit Mertajam
From a small chapel built atop a hillock by visiting priest Fr. Adolphe Couellan in 1846, it grew to become a center of pilgrimage in the region. Hence a bigger church was built next to the old one, now called the Shrine. The dedication of the new church with its multi-tiered Minangkabau roofs and Gothic architecture was held on the 26 July 2002.
The church was named after St Anne, mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and has a sitting capacity of 1,800. Celebrations are held on a grand scale annually in conjunction with the annual St Anne's Feast (in the month of July) which is usually followed by two nights of candelight procession by thousands of devotees at the church grounds
The church was named after St Anne, mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and has a sitting capacity of 1,800. Celebrations are held on a grand scale annually in conjunction with the annual St Anne's Feast (in the month of July) which is usually followed by two nights of candelight procession by thousands of devotees at the church grounds
5. Nattukotai Temple, Jalan Air Terjun
Paragraph. ClickThe temple is dedicated to the deity, Bala Subramaniam, and features prominently during the annual Taipusam festival when thousands of devotees throung its premises for the various rites and ceremonies.
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6. Acheen Street Mosque, Lebuh Acheen
Also known as Masjid Melayu, the mosque was built on land donated by Syed Sheriff Tengku Syed Hussain Aidid who came from Acheh in Sumatera. The 1820 mosque features a small window halfway up the minerat which is said to have originally been a hole made by cannonball fired during the 1867 triad riots
7. Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) Temple
Known as the Temple of the Goddess of Mercy, this popular Taoist temple is located close to the Kapitan Kling Mosque on Jalan Kapitan Keling, formerly known as Pitt Street. Believed to be the oldest temple in Penang, it was built in the 1800s by early Chinese settlers. Kuan Yin was a being who had actually attained Nirvana but stayed behind to save those souls who did not escaped the world of suffering.
The temple is also dedicated to Ma Chor Poh, the virgin goddess of mercy and saint to sea voyagers. The high roof of the main hall is supported by dragon-entwined pillars carved from a type of green stone. The statue of Kuan Yin as a serenely composed woman with 18 arms sits on an inner chamber.
The temple is also dedicated to Ma Chor Poh, the virgin goddess of mercy and saint to sea voyagers. The high roof of the main hall is supported by dragon-entwined pillars carved from a type of green stone. The statue of Kuan Yin as a serenely composed woman with 18 arms sits on an inner chamber.
8. Wat Chayamankalaram, Lorong Burma
The world’s third largest reclining Buddha which measures 33 metres in length, is draped in gold-leafed saffron and reclines on a large crematorium. This Buddhist temple is reminiscent of Bangkok’s many wats. The intricate finish of the interior in vibrant colours and designs is a sample of Thai architecture.
Behind the temple is a small Thai village as well as a Thai cemetery. At this temple, the local Thais celebrate the traditional Buddhist festivals, the Sonkran and the Loy Krathong.
Behind the temple is a small Thai village as well as a Thai cemetery. At this temple, the local Thais celebrate the traditional Buddhist festivals, the Sonkran and the Loy Krathong.
9. St. George’s Church, Lebuh Farquhar
Built with convict labor in 1818, the Anglican Church was named after the patron saint of England, and is one of the region’s oldest. The Greek temple in the church grounds is a memorial to Francis Light. Today, church goers still flock to the church for service and it remains virtually unchanged.
10. Snake Temple, Sungai Kluang
The Snake Temple was built in 1850 in memory of the Buddhist priest, Choo Sor Kong, who is said to have healing powers. Legend, however, has it that the place used to be the home of a religious man who gave shelter to poisonous snakes when they sought refuge there. After his death, the snakes remained and it became a place of worship.
Also known as Temple of Azure Cloud, the serpents’ shrine is an extraordinary one: poisonous pit vipers busk on altars, incense burners, candlesticks, vases and tables, underfoot and overhead. Recommended for the intrepid visitors
Also known as Temple of Azure Cloud, the serpents’ shrine is an extraordinary one: poisonous pit vipers busk on altars, incense burners, candlesticks, vases and tables, underfoot and overhead. Recommended for the intrepid visitors
Natural Gateways & Parks
1. Penang Butterfly Farm, Teluk Bahang
Located at Teluk Bahang, 20km from George Town, the Butterfly Farm covers an area of 0.8 hectare. Visitors can marvel at the hundreds of species of butterflies and local insects in their natural habitat.
The best time to visit is in the late morning or early afternoon, when the butterflies are most active. Click here for full story
Visiting Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 9:00am
to 5:00pm; Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
from 9:00am to 5:30pm
Admission: RM 12.50 (adult), RM 6.25 (child from 5-12 years of age); Free for children below 5 years of age.
Address: No 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang
The best time to visit is in the late morning or early afternoon, when the butterflies are most active. Click here for full story
Visiting Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 9:00am
to 5:00pm; Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays
from 9:00am to 5:30pm
Admission: RM 12.50 (adult), RM 6.25 (child from 5-12 years of age); Free for children below 5 years of age.
Address: No 830 Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11050 Penang
2. Penang Hill
Penang Hill is actually made up of a series of hills which rise above the island. The peak stands at 821 metres above sea level, which makes it a cool getaway from the tropical heat below.
The hill is accessible via a funicular train which was first opened for use in 1923. The train operates in two sections and passengers change railcars at midpoint. It takes about half an hour to reach the summit and the train service operates at half hour intervals.
Alternatively, the fit and adventurous can hike up the hill from the many hiking trails available – the most popular trails start at access points close to the Botanic Gardens. The hike itself is about 6.7 km or 4.5 miles long, which will take hikers an average of 2 to 4 hours, depending on level of fitness.
Upon reaching the summit, one is rewarded with a panoramic view of Penang island. There are also old bungalows, a hotel, restaurant, bird park and walking trails which are worth checking out.
The hill is accessible via a funicular train which was first opened for use in 1923. The train operates in two sections and passengers change railcars at midpoint. It takes about half an hour to reach the summit and the train service operates at half hour intervals.
Alternatively, the fit and adventurous can hike up the hill from the many hiking trails available – the most popular trails start at access points close to the Botanic Gardens. The hike itself is about 6.7 km or 4.5 miles long, which will take hikers an average of 2 to 4 hours, depending on level of fitness.
Upon reaching the summit, one is rewarded with a panoramic view of Penang island. There are also old bungalows, a hotel, restaurant, bird park and walking trails which are worth checking out.
3. Penang National Park
The Penang National Park along Pantai Acheh may be the country’s smallest National Park but it is Malaysia’s precious little emerald.
With plenty of well-marked jungle trials (for the super fit and fit-at-heart), a pristine beach (Pantai Kerachut) and magical Meromictic Lake (a body of sea water and fresh water that does NOT mix!), it is an eco-paradise second to none.
Remember to plan for nice long walk to Muka Head and make sure you stop by the old lighthouse. Built in 1883 (yes, it’s still operational), the lighthouse is open to visitors. If the walk back later seems too much, just hail a fishing boat – most local boat owners double up as water cabbies here!
With plenty of well-marked jungle trials (for the super fit and fit-at-heart), a pristine beach (Pantai Kerachut) and magical Meromictic Lake (a body of sea water and fresh water that does NOT mix!), it is an eco-paradise second to none.
Remember to plan for nice long walk to Muka Head and make sure you stop by the old lighthouse. Built in 1883 (yes, it’s still operational), the lighthouse is open to visitors. If the walk back later seems too much, just hail a fishing boat – most local boat owners double up as water cabbies here!
4. Botanic Gardens, Jalan Air Terjun
This 30-hectare sprawling garden of flora and fauna is a favourite recreation spot for locals. Central to the Gardens is a waterfall that start over a hundred metres above, hence its more popular moniker of "Waterfall Gardens". Today, the waterfall is a restricted area and hidden from public view by the green foliage.Opens: Daily from 5.00am - 8.00pm
Admission is free.
Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
Admission is free.
Address: Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
5. Tropical Fruit Farm, Jalan Teluk Bahang
Tropical fruit farm is situated at about 900 ft above sea level on the hilly terrain of Teluk Bahang, the orchard covers 25 acres and it was developed back in 1993 to converse the rare and exotic fruit trees and to educate and promote to the locals as well as foreigners on the gift that our land is blessed.
Opens: 9.00am to 6.00pm daily
Address: Batu 18, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang
Opens: 9.00am to 6.00pm daily
Address: Batu 18, Jalan Teluk Bahang, Penang
6. Tropical Spice Garden, Jalan Teluk Bahang
Tropical Spice Garden provides an enchanting escape for tired souls' it is a garden of discovery for those who miss out on simple pleasures like walking barefoot on dewy grass or stopping to smell the flowers. If you are in need of stress therapy to invigorate your body and mind, this microcosm of diverse ecosystems is the perfect respite!
Address: Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang
11100 Penang
Opens: Daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm.
Last admission at 5.30 pm.
Admission fees to the Spice Gardens:
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): RM28 (self-guided) or RM45 (tour guided) Adult RM13 (self guided) or RM20 (tour guided) Child (aged 4-12): RM5 (self or tour guided); Free for children under 4 years of age
Admission fee to the Visitor Centre: RM1 (Free for children accompanied by parents)
Includes admission to the Spice Museum, Garden Shop, Gift Shop and Spice Café.
Address: Lot 595 Mukim 2, Jalan Teluk Bahang
11100 Penang
Opens: Daily from 9.00am to 6.00pm.
Last admission at 5.30 pm.
Admission fees to the Spice Gardens:
Family (2 adults and up to 3 children): RM28 (self-guided) or RM45 (tour guided) Adult RM13 (self guided) or RM20 (tour guided) Child (aged 4-12): RM5 (self or tour guided); Free for children under 4 years of age
Admission fee to the Visitor Centre: RM1 (Free for children accompanied by parents)
Includes admission to the Spice Museum, Garden Shop, Gift Shop and Spice Café.
7. Beaches and fishing villages
Most activities are centered around Batu Ferringhi, where most of the popular beach resorts are located. Their facilities include waterskiing, sailing, windsurfing, water scooters, and waterskiing. This prime stretch of beach is always a hive of activity with elite nightspots and restaurants which come to life in the evening.
Further down is the equally lovely Teluk Bahang Beach, which is home to kampungs and a fishing village. If privacy is preferred, head for the secluded beaches of Teluk Duyung, Monkey Beach, Pantai Kerachut and Pantai Mas which are accessible via the trails in the Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve from Teluk Bahang
Further down is the equally lovely Teluk Bahang Beach, which is home to kampungs and a fishing village. If privacy is preferred, head for the secluded beaches of Teluk Duyung, Monkey Beach, Pantai Kerachut and Pantai Mas which are accessible via the trails in the Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve from Teluk Bahang
War Museum, Batu Maung
War Museum, Batu Maung
If you want to know what life was like in Penang during wartime, you'll find some of the answers at the Penang War Museum. Housed in what was once a British fort built during World War II, the museum is the only one of its kind in the country.
Address: Lot 1350 Mukim 12, Merah Barat Daya, Batu Maung, 11960 Penang
Opens: 9:00am to 7:00pm daily including public holidays
Admission: RM10 for adults and RM5 for children
If you want to know what life was like in Penang during wartime, you'll find some of the answers at the Penang War Museum. Housed in what was once a British fort built during World War II, the museum is the only one of its kind in the country.
Address: Lot 1350 Mukim 12, Merah Barat Daya, Batu Maung, 11960 Penang
Opens: 9:00am to 7:00pm daily including public holidays
Admission: RM10 for adults and RM5 for children
MAINLAND PENANG ( BUTTERWORTH )
1. Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest
The Bukit Mertajam Recreational Forest lies 457 metres above sea level and covers an area of 37 hectares. Some locals refer to Bukit Mertajam as Bukit Ubat (or medicinal hill) because of the therapeutic qualities attributed to it – people with minor ailments actually claim of feeling relieved after a hike. One of the more popular parks on the mainland, it is usually packed with people during holidays. Facilites include a swimming pool, camping and picnic spots, jungle treks and comfortable accomodation.
3. Penang Bridge
Since its opening, the Penang Bridge has become an iconic part of George Town. Like the Brooklyn Bridge or the Golden Gate Bridge, Penang Bridge has contributed significantly to the rapid development of Penang both as a tourist as well as an industrial centre. Every year the Penang Bridge Run takes place on the Penang Bridge itself and along the scenic coastal highway of George Town. This is the only time of the year when the bridge is closed for several hours in the wee hours of the morning. The biggest run in the country incorporates a marathon, a half-marathon and a quarter-marathon.
5. Penang Bird Park, Jalan Todak
A must see for bird lovers is the Penang Bird Park, located at an accessible five-minutes by car from the Penang Bridge. This 2-hectare Park is home to more than 300 species of birds from all over the world, including our local breads and some endangered species too. See huge birds of prey, pelicans, the gigantic cassowaries, emu and ostriches surrounded by their natural habitats.
The Park is also home to non-feathered animals like fishes, reptiles and mouse deer. The park also features beautifully landscaped gardens, relaxing waterfalls, lotus ponds, walk-in aviaries, a souvenir shop and restaurant. Click here for full story.
Address: Jalan Todak, Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai, Penang, Malaysia.
Opens: Daily from 9.00am - 7.00pm
Admission: Adult - RM10, Children (below 12 year-old): RM5, School Children (in school uniform): RM2, Camera - RM1, Physically and/or mentally handicapped & under privileged persons are allowed free entrance
The Park is also home to non-feathered animals like fishes, reptiles and mouse deer. The park also features beautifully landscaped gardens, relaxing waterfalls, lotus ponds, walk-in aviaries, a souvenir shop and restaurant. Click here for full story.
Address: Jalan Todak, Seberang Jaya, 13700 Perai, Penang, Malaysia.
Opens: Daily from 9.00am - 7.00pm
Admission: Adult - RM10, Children (below 12 year-old): RM5, School Children (in school uniform): RM2, Camera - RM1, Physically and/or mentally handicapped & under privileged persons are allowed free entrance
2. Bukit Panchor Recreational Forest
Located 10km from Nibong Tebal or 50km from George Town lies the Bukit Panchor Recreational Forest – an ideal getaway for picnics, camping and jungle trekking.
A perfect place for the family
A perfect place for the family
4. Mengkuang Dam, Bukit Mertajam
The biggest dam in Penang with a storage capacity of 23, 639 million litres of water is located in the Mengkuang Valley north of Bukit Mertajam on the mainland. It was officially opened by the former Governor, Dr. Tun Awang Hassan in 1985.
A haven for nature lovers, the dam features a well-landscaped garden with rubber, pinang and pine trees and some wildlife. Besides using the jogging tracks and walking trails, fitness buffs also hold regular sporting and recreational activities. The dam was recently host to the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival.
The dam is accessible via the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE). Get off at the Penanti exit from the BKE and drive on for about 2km until you reach the Mengkuang Dam.
Opens: 6:00am to 7.30pm daily.
A haven for nature lovers, the dam features a well-landscaped garden with rubber, pinang and pine trees and some wildlife. Besides using the jogging tracks and walking trails, fitness buffs also hold regular sporting and recreational activities. The dam was recently host to the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival.
The dam is accessible via the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE). Get off at the Penanti exit from the BKE and drive on for about 2km until you reach the Mengkuang Dam.
Opens: 6:00am to 7.30pm daily.
6. Fire Flies Watching Nibong Tebal
You will be amazed by with the synchronised flashes of light gently hovering over mangrove trees that lined the river bank. The specific species of mangrove tree which attracts these fireflies is the berembang (sonneratia caseolaris).
Fireflies watching at Sungai Kerian have also been lauded by many visitors as a ‘must visit’ tourist attraction. In fact, the fire fly is an icon of Nibong Tebal.
The fireflies emit light at the lower abdomen not only to attract mates but also to scare away predators. Their abdomens are filled with a chemical called lucibufagens which in fact tastes pretty nasty.For most people, the sight of nature’s ‘fairy lights’ flickering in the night along the serene Sungai Kerian will remain etched in their memory as nature’s gift which one must experience for oneself Rate for the journey (Down Stream)
Adult RM12.00 / pax
Children RM8.00 / pax
Charter Boat (Max. 20 persons per boat)
RM150.00 / boat
Fireflies watching at Sungai Kerian have also been lauded by many visitors as a ‘must visit’ tourist attraction. In fact, the fire fly is an icon of Nibong Tebal.
The fireflies emit light at the lower abdomen not only to attract mates but also to scare away predators. Their abdomens are filled with a chemical called lucibufagens which in fact tastes pretty nasty.For most people, the sight of nature’s ‘fairy lights’ flickering in the night along the serene Sungai Kerian will remain etched in their memory as nature’s gift which one must experience for oneself Rate for the journey (Down Stream)
Adult RM12.00 / pax
Children RM8.00 / pax
Charter Boat (Max. 20 persons per boat)
RM150.00 / boat
OTHERS ATRRACTION PLACES
Penang Botanic Gardens - Jalan Kebun Bunga
Orchid Hibiscus and Reptile Garden - Bukit Jambul
Tropical Spice Garden - Teluk Bahang
Penang Fisheries Aquarium - Batu Maung
Penang Toy Museum - Jalan Tanjung Bungah
P. Ramlee's Gallery - Jalan P. Ramlee
Penang Flea Market - Lorong Kulit
Juru Auto City - 1 Stop Auto, Food & Entertaiment
Tanjong City Marina - Pengkalan Weld
And Many More
Orchid Hibiscus and Reptile Garden - Bukit Jambul
Tropical Spice Garden - Teluk Bahang
Penang Fisheries Aquarium - Batu Maung
Penang Toy Museum - Jalan Tanjung Bungah
P. Ramlee's Gallery - Jalan P. Ramlee
Penang Flea Market - Lorong Kulit
Juru Auto City - 1 Stop Auto, Food & Entertaiment
Tanjong City Marina - Pengkalan Weld
And Many More
