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Despite its small size, places to visit in Penang offer a wealth of cultural and historical experiences, particularly when exploring its charming and vibrant Old Town. Penang is known as Malaysia's culinary capital, and one of the best ways to experience it is to dine on street cuisine that draws from the city's diverse cultural heritage.
Wondering about things to see and do in Penang? Try the creamy laksa and char kway teow noodles, but take it further. Georgetown, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is home to Hindu and Buddhist temples as well as old Chinese shopfronts and other remnants of Malaysia's colonial history. Continuing a bit farther out, in the world's smallest national park, Penang, you'll discover deep jungle and white-sand beaches. Sounds like a lot? We’ve compiled a list of must-see places in Penang and things to do in Penang!
Places to visit in Penang
Khoo Kongsi
Among Georgetown's many back alleys is the historic Khoo Kongsi clan home and museum, also known as Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi. The home is one of the most significant clan houses in Malaysia. Intricate carvings, paintings, and timberwork bear witness to the house's heritage, which stretches back over 650 years to the Khoo Kongsi clan of western China. One of the best places to see in Penang!
The Temple of Sri Mariamman
The first Hindu temple in Penang, the well-known Arulmigu Sri Mahamariamman Temple, dates back hundreds of years. This temple, which is also called the Queen Street Indian Temple, is well-known for its beautiful carvings of Hindu deities that adorn its front and entry gate. Originally constructed in 1883, this Hindu temple is the oldest of its kind in Georgetown. Inside this temple, you will see a large number of South Indians, many of whom are locals. The traditional gopuram above the entrance enhances its appeal. It is one of the best things to see in Penang!
Penang Hill
Penang Hill is a man-made example of a harmonious blend of tropical climate, verdant foliage, stunning panoramas, colonial character, and forested terrain. Located in the neighbourhood of Air Itam on Penang Island, Malaysia, Penang Hill is a charming, small hill station. It is one of the most popular Penang tourism places!
Just 9 kilometres west of central Georgetown is Bukit Bendera—another name for this island. Several hills, including Government Hill, Flagstaff Hill, Western Hill, and Tiger Hill, make up just 9 kilometres west of central Georgetown is Bukit Bendera—another name for this island. strongly mirrored by the opulent bungalows at this famous tourist spot, which were previously inhabited by British officials during the colonial era.
Millions of tourists go to Penang Hill every year for the unique funicular train system, which takes them conveniently and excitingly to the peak. The colder weather is just one more reason to visit Penang Hill. A popular spot to unwind, it boasts posh eateries, exciting hiking paths, and breathtaking views. It is one of the most popular places to see in Penang!
Batu Ferringhi
With four kilometres of powdery white sand beaches and an assortment of five-star hotels, Batu Ferringhi is one of Penang's most famous beach towns. The night market and several aquatic activities are the main attractions. There are several beach resorts scattered along Batu Feringghi's long, pristine beach. There are several resorts, stores, and restaurants along Jalan Batu Feringgi, an adjacent road. This beach offers a wide variety of water sports, such as windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing. Also, while you're at Batu Feringghi, don't miss the Tropical Spice Garden, where you may unwind in the shade of fragrant spices. Truly one of the best places to see in Penang!
Penang War Museum
An old British military stronghold that was once the scene of the fabled Battle of Penang between the British and the Japanese is now home to the Penang War Museum. It is currently a museum that is becoming famous as the largest war museum in Southeast Asia, and it is located near Bukit Batu Maung on the southern coast of Penang. It is believed to be one of the most haunted places in Asia. The building's shady past as a jail and torture chamber is to blame. Ghosts and other paranormal phenomena have been reported by several witnesses. So, if you want to experience the famous haunted museum, you have to give this Penang tourist place a visit!
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Things to do in Penang
Appreciate the street artwork
George Town's street art is a popular attraction for tourists visiting Penang. Tourists enjoy this, as they can engage with the artwork by interacting with it, and you will be astounded by the breathtaking beauty of it all. Several of the murals featured seats and motorcycles, for example. The long lines of people eager to get their pictures taken at Georgetown's street art prove that it is still a major draw for tourists visiting the Penang area.
Take a train journey through history
Stop by the Penang train station for a trip. Located behind George Town at an elevation of approximately 2,733 feet (0.83 km) above sea level, Penang Hill was a hill station during the colonial era. Founded in 1924, the Penang Hill Funicular Railway takes visitors on a luxurious ride along the cliffside. A breathtaking adventure awaits you on these sophisticated trains and tracks, with their tremendous ascents through the forest and across bridges.
Visit the famous 5 clan house
The five Kongsi, or clan house temples, are among George Town's most revered historical landmarks. They served as gathering spots for people of the same ethnicity, dialect, or region in China. You shouldn't leave Penang without seeing Khoo Kongsi and Cheah Kongsi, two of the most significant clan homes on the island. The elaborate, majestic temples here are reminiscent of those in China.
Take a stroll down Penang's Armenian Boulevard
Among the most visited streets in George Town's UNESCO World Heritage zone, Penang Armenian Street (Lebuh Armenian) is known for its mesmerising combination of street art, clan homes, temples, and shops. Two of the most Instagrammed artworks in Penang are Little Children on a Bicycle by Ernest Zacharevic and Love Me Like Your Fortune Cat.