An island rich in traditions and history with plenty to keep the visitor entertained. From its grand old colonial capital to the lively beaches of its north coast, Pulau Penang is a small place that punches well above its tourist weight and has become renowned as a food-lovers paradise, whether you favour top-notch restaurants or simple hawker food sold by the roadside.
Penang is great for
- Cultural Insight
- Historical Sites
- Museums
- Handicrafts and shopping
- Temples and religious sites
- Festivals
- Local Markets
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Golf
- Kayaking
- Rafting
- Music
- Flora and fauna
- Sailing
- Snorkelling
- Sun and Sea
- Museum/Galleries
- Nightlife
Penang Island was given to the British East India Company in 1786 by the Sultan of Kedah, in exchange for military protection (which he never received) and has made a graceful progress ever since away from its colonial past to become a thriving commercial centre and tourist destination. Take a trishaw around the shophouses, bazaars and colonial villas of Georgetown, a World Heritage Site , then head off around the island's fishing villages to the resorts of Batu Ferringhi and famous temples such as Kek Lok Si and Ban Kah Lan, where 19th century monks allowed vipers in from surrounding jungle to find shelter. You have been warned.
Recommended highlights
The following experiences are possible from Penang. Talk to our expert travel consultants about how to make your holiday extra special:
Discover a Historical and Cultural Awakening of Penang City
Discover the heritage of Penang by exploring the any and varied places of interest of this significant city. Why not start with a Photo-stop at Fort Cornwallis where Capt. Francis Light first landed; walk along the Chew Jetty - an old Chinese waterfront settlement; visit the majestic and ornate Khoo Clan Ancestral House; and the massive Reclining Buddha Temple. If that wasn't enough culture for you - proceed to the Royal Selangor Pewter to see the art of pewter craftsmanship before escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life to the tranquil and green surroundings of the Botanical Gardens where you may see the wild monkeys.
Panoramic Hill and Temples of Penang Tour
Why not dedicate a day to exploring the fascinating central part of the island, where the best views can be found. Explore the renowned Kek Lok Si Temple, one of the most splendid temples in the Far East, with its Pagoda of 10,000 Buddhas and tortoise sanctuary. Ascend Penang Hill by funicular railway and enjoy a panoramic view of Georgetown, the capital of Penang.
Scale the Heights of Penang
Why not start your day in the seaside district of Telok Bahang, taking in the Butterfly Farm, with over 120 species of tropical butterflies. Next stop at a Batik Factory to observe the traditional technique of batik factory using wax and dyes. By trishaw, you could take a leisurely ride to the Khoo Clan Ancestral House and admire the intricate carvings and woodwork. In the afternoon, you should ride the funicular railway up Penang Hill, (830 meters above sea level) for a panoramic view of the city.
Explore Georgetown By Night With Romantic Dinner
Enjoy an outdoor meal dining under the stars at one of Penang's many local eateries, sampling delicious Malaysian cuisine like the ever-popular Char Koay Teow, whilst watching how they are prepared. After dinner, you should enjoy the sights and sounds of the city by taking trishaw ride through the heart of Georgetown. Finally, we recommend that you relax over a round of drinks at Farquhar's bar at the elegant Eastern and Oriental Hotel.
Butterfly Farm and Botanic Gardens of the Foot Hills
Nature lovers shouldn't leave Malaysia without visiting the Butterfly Farm located at the seaside district of Telok Bahang. A sanctuary for rare and exotic butterflies, the farm is complete with a hatchery and a `Preserved Butterflies of the World' museum. Next, we suggest you continue your nature trail to the 72 hectares of Botanic Gardens near the foothills. Stroll through the sprawling grounds and learn about the rare species of flora while monkeys roam freely in their natural habitat.
Langkawi Nature Discovery Adventure
Nature lovers shouldn't leave without a full day's excursion of the tropical island of Langkawi, famed for its myths and legends. On arrival at Kuah Jetty by ferry from Penang, visit Eagle Square and come face to face with Giant Groupers, Sharks, Moray eels and other schools of fishes at Underwater World aquarium. Why not take an 8-seater motorized boat and get a close up view of mangrove swamps to observe the feeding of wild eagles and experience a limestone cave adventure.
