Penang Island is an important tourist destination in Malaysia and is also famously known as the “Pearl of the Orient”. The famous spots include blue-watered beaches and tropical jungles, painted temples, and exotic food stalls, which will suit every traveler’s taste. If you have plans to tour this exotic island, make sure to check out these must-see highlights of Samoa.
Penang Hill
The place of interest in the capital of Penang is Penang Hill, which rises to 735 meters above sea level and from which it is possible to enjoy the magnificent view of the island. From the funicular station, one can opt to take a scenic nature walk through the forest, go to visit the Hindu Temple Cave, or even have tea at David Brown’s Restaurant & Tea Terraces. This vantage point offers you a spectacular view of George Town at night, do not let this pass without capturing the moment in a photo or two.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok Si Temple, the biggest Buddhist temple located in Malaysia is a magnificent structure located on a hill on Air Itam. This temple complex, embellished exquisitely, has numerous halls, temples, and gardens besides several places of tourist interest housed in it. Do not overlook the chance to visit the fabulous seven-tier Pagoda of Rama VI, one of the main attractions in Penang.
Tropical Spice Garden
Find out more about the 500-plus species of flora and fauna found in Malaysia at this open-air living museum located near George Town. A guided tour of the garden is helpful in which visitors can observe and even taste spices, herbs, different fruits, and other plants common to the region. Of course, it is also recommended to visit the butterfly and reptile stickers as well.
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Subtropical in feel, Batu Ferringhi Beach is fringed by lush green palms and wide sandy beaches where beachfront luxury resorts are located. It is one of the best places in the park to spend a day sunbathing, swimming, or sunbathing by the seashore. At night, there could be fun things to do such as engaging in a night bazaar selling local products or you may be looking for a drink at an open-air bar with some discounted prices during this time in the evening.
George Town
Aimless strolling through the network of the meandering alleys of the picturesque center of George Town to reveal numerous historical sights. Sites of Architectural Interest include the Association of Southeast architectural styles with Asian, European, and local elements, Ancient Chinese Clan Houses, Intricate Temples, Compelling Museums, many varied places of worship, and shophouses. Pavement dining: Take your pick of mouthwatering street food faves as you traverse this lively town on foot.
Penang National Park
Situated in northeastern Penang Island, it spans 1,213 hectares of virgin jungle, coastal areas, and beaches, making it an ideal place for flora and fauna enthusiasts as well as those who like hiking. Take a guided rainforest trek to see the long-tailed macaques or other animals more natural or hike to the top of Muka Head to view the sea. Finish the day, after having sweated it out, by swimming in the waters of beautiful Monkey Beach.
Entopia Butterfly Farm
Visit Teluk Bahang to come face to face with about 15000 foreign butterflies and insects at this facility. There are thousands of specimens in trays as well as many hundreds of living species in the flightless aviary and in the large tropical glasshouse and outdoor garden. There is an educational tour whereby people learn more about different types of butterflies and their conservation and you can watch butterflies that only emerged from their chrysalis a short while ago.
Khoo Kongsi
Appreciate the architectural skills, at the Khoo Kongsi a clan house complex, located in the Chinatown of George Town. The Hokkien grand clan temple with sloping roofs ornate carvings and sculptures and bright accent colours is magnificently designed like something taken right from old China. At the museum located on the premises of the cultural village, guests can find out more about Malaysian Chinese culture and history.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
To get a feel of the opulence that was typical of the Straits-born Chinese or the Peranakans as they are called, take a tour of the Pinang Peranakan Mansion. This heritage building turned into a home now with more than 1,000 items on display and is believed to house one of the fine Peranakan antique collections. It is also recommended to see the beautiful carving on the wooden furniture, beadwork, different attires, and porcelain samples.
Conclusion
There is so much that one can explore and appreciate on this island that it may take several visits to be able to cover all the sites and enjoy the scenery. However, do ensure that you manage to pay a visit to some of the above-mentioned major tourist spots to have a feel of what Penang is all about. Among them, each one is distinct and you cannot find the same experience in Malaysia or any other country in the world.
And that brings us to the end of the article which outlines 10 places that are a must-visit for tourists in Penang Island. Amazing beaches, beautiful gardens and parks, thrilling trails, interesting streets, cultural museums, and much more to explore- Penang is never going to leave you untouched!
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What is the best place to experience Penang's rich heritage?
George Town offers a captivating blend of colonial architecture, street art, and cultural landmarks like the Khoo Kongsi clan house.
Where can I find natural beauty and outdoor activities?
Penang Hill provides stunning panoramic views, while the Botanical Gardens offer a tranquil escape amidst lush greenery.
What are some iconic temples and religious sites in Penang?
Kek Lok Si Temple is a magnificent Buddhist complex, while the Masjid Kapitan Keling is a prominent Islamic mosque.
Where can I enjoy Penang's famous beaches and water sports?
Batu Ferringhi is the most popular beach for sunbathing, swimming, and various water activities.
What unique experiences can I have in Penang?
Explore the enchanting world of butterflies at the Penang Butterfly Farm or immerse yourself in the underwater world at the Underwater World Penang.