Categories: Malaysia

Top 5 Penang Attractions

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

Source

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

Source

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

Source

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

Source

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

Source

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.

 


You might also like these other top 5 lists by Ivan:


Top 5 Mumbai Attractions


Ivan Teh

I'm a workaholic, a multi-tasker... and also hyperactive. =)

Recent Posts

10 Value Dollar Stores In Singapore With Affordable Snacks, Household Items & Electronics

These value dollar stores have $2 water bottles and even manga from $4.50.

November 5, 2024

Ultimate Singapore To KL Road Trip Guide – Where To Stop & What To Do Along The Way

Everything you need to know to prep for a road trip northwards.

November 5, 2024

We Compare 7 Budget Airlines That Fly From Singapore To See Which Is Most Value For Money

Choose the best budget airline based on your travel preferences and needs, not particularly the…

November 5, 2024

This Johor Farm Has Animal Feeding, Sky Lanterns & $46/Night Chalets, Lift Any Baaad Mood

Old MacDonald had a farm, but we bet it isn't as close to SG as…

November 4, 2024

16 Beach Clubs In Bali To Relax and Unwind At, Includes Kid-Friendly & Affordable Options

Boozin' by the beach in Bali sounds like a good plan.

November 4, 2024

5 Steps To Take The Next Time You Have A Medical Concern, Instead Of Googling Your Symptoms

There is a free service where you can get professional advice on what to do…

November 3, 2024