Top 5 Penang Attractions

City: Penang Island
State: Penang
Country: Malaysia

Although it is also widely referred to as Penang, the actual Penang Island is only part of the state of Penang, which also comprises Seberang Prai on mainland Malaysia. Formerly a major trading port for the Colonial British, Penang is known for its variety of tasty street food, as well as its beaches. In Malay, its name Pulau Pinang actually translates to Betel Nut Island.

Here are the Top 5 Tourist Attractions to visit in Penang, all of which hold important cultural or historical significance. All these are permanent locations which can be visited and viewed at any time throughout the year.

1. Penang Hill Bukit Bendera

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Offering the best views of the city, including George Town and the famous Penang Bridge of Malaysia, Penang Hill Bukit Bendera is best visited during the day. There are several options for the ascent to the top; trek, drive, or take the cable tram. The temperature at the top of Penang Hill Bukit Bendera is much cooler than elsewhere, and there are also several museums to visit here.

2. Batu Ferringhi Beach

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Batu Ferringhi Beach is known for its white sand and palm trees, making the area one of the more popular destinations in Malaysia. Batu Ferringhi Beach has several popular sights along its stretch, including the Muka Head Lighthouse, Tropical Spice Garden and Tropical Fruit Farm. The famous night bazaar here is also very popular for its street food and local trinkets.

3. George Town Street Art

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The heart of Penang, George Town is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Zone in Malaysia, known for its colonial architecture style buildings and random street art. George Town Street Art is highly concentrated along Armenian Street, though there are also other murals and sculptures all over the city. The most famous artist is Ernest Zacharevic, responsible for many of the creative murals around the city.

4. Fort Cornwallis

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Fort Cornwallis served as an administrative fort for the Colonial British, and never saw any combat. Designated by Malaysia as a historic site, Fort Cornwallis is relatively well preserved with a small chapel, bunker, lighthouse and cannons within its walls. Artefacts from archaeological digs are also displayed here. One of the cannons in particular is believed by locals to have magical ‘fertility’ powers.

5. Kek Lok Si Temple Of Supreme Bliss

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This sprawling hillside temple reputed to be not just the biggest in Malaysia, but the whole of Southeast Asia, the Kek Lok Si Temple Of Supreme Bliss is located just next to Penang Hill Bukit Bendera. Multiple stores line the many steps up to Kek Lok Si Temple Of Supreme Bliss, and the place is well known for a giant 36.5m high statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy.