PENANG
Penang Palette: A Colorful Journey through Malaysia's Cultural and Culinary Paradise
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Penang is during the months of December to March, which is the dry season. During this period, the weather is generally pleasant with lower humidity and less rainfall. The temperatures range from around 25°C to 31°C (77°F to 88°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
However, Penang can be visited year-round due to its tropical climate. Keep in mind that the island experiences rainfall throughout the year, with a slightly higher chance of rain during the monsoon season from April to October. While the showers are usually short-lived and won't hinder your plans significantly, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat during this time.
Do note that Penang can get quite busy during major holidays and festivals, such as Chinese New Year and Hari Raya Aidilfitri. If you prefer fewer crowds, it's advisable to avoid visiting during these peak periods.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Penang depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Whether you choose the dry season or opt for the off-peak months, Penang has plenty to offer in terms of culture, cuisine, and sightseeing throughout the year.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Penang, depending on your starting point. Here are some common transportation options:
By Air: Penang has an international airport, Penang International Airport (PEN), which receives direct flights from various domestic and international destinations. You can fly to Penang from major cities in Malaysia, as well as from neighboring countries like Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service to your destination in Penang.
By Road:
From Kuala Lumpur: The most common way to reach Penang from Kuala Lumpur is by road. The journey by car or bus takes around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route taken. You can drive yourself or take a bus from various terminals in Kuala Lumpur, such as Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS) or Pudu Sentral.
From other Malaysian cities: If you're traveling from other cities in Malaysia, you can take a bus or drive to Penang. There are regular bus services connecting Penang with cities like Ipoh, Malacca, Johor Bahru, and more.
By Ferry: If you're already in Malaysia and prefer a more scenic option, you can take a ferry to Penang from the mainland. The ferry operates between Butterworth on the mainland and George Town on Penang Island. The journey takes around 15-20 minutes, and it's a convenient way to reach Penang if you're traveling by foot or with a vehicle.
Top 20 Attractions
Penang offers a plethora of attractions that cater to various interests, from historical sites and cultural landmarks to natural wonders and modern attractions.
Here are the top 20 attractions in Penang:
George Town UNESCO World Heritage Site: Explore the historic streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant street art of George Town.
Penang Hill: Take the funicular railway to the top of Penang Hill for breathtaking views of the island and the mainland.
Kek Lok Si Temple: Visit the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, known for its impressive architecture and scenic surroundings.
Fort Cornwallis: Discover the historical fort built by the British East India Company in the late 18th century.
Penang Street Art: Explore the captivating murals and steel rod caricatures scattered throughout George Town's streets.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion (Blue Mansion): Marvel at the iconic indigo-blue building and learn about the fascinating history of the prominent Chinese merchant.
Snake Temple (Chor Soo Kong Temple): Visit this unique temple known for its resident venomous snakes.
Penang National Park: Experience nature at its finest by hiking through lush rainforest, visiting pristine beaches, and exploring the park's diverse flora and fauna.
Clan Jetties: Take a stroll along the traditional wooden jetties, each representing a different Chinese clan.
Gurney Drive: Enjoy the bustling waterfront promenade lined with hawker stalls offering delicious local food.
Penang Museum and Art Gallery: Delve into Penang's history, culture, and art through its exhibits and collections.
Dharmikarama Burmese Temple: Admire the beautiful Burmese architecture and exquisite sculptures at this serene temple.
War Museum (Fort Cornwallis Lighthouse): Explore the underground tunnels and exhibits showcasing Penang's wartime history.
Penang Butterfly Farm: Wander through a lush tropical garden filled with colorful butterflies, insects, and reptiles.
Penang Botanic Gardens: Enjoy the tranquility of this well-maintained garden featuring a variety of plants, a waterfall, and a small zoo.
Batu Ferringhi Beach: Relax on the sandy shores, indulge in watersports, or visit the nearby night market.
Penang Time Tunnel Museum: Take a journey through Penang's past with interactive exhibits and displays.
Khoo Kongsi: Visit this elaborate Chinese clanhouse with intricate carvings and ornate architecture.
Escape Theme Park: Have a thrilling adventure at this outdoor adventure park with rides, obstacle courses, and more.
Upside Down Museum: Experience a unique perspective as you explore rooms and exhibits designed to appear upside down.
Top 10 Activities
Penang offers a wide range of activities to suit different interests.
Here are the top 10 activities to do in Penang:
Explore George Town's Street Art: Take a self-guided tour to discover the vibrant street art scattered throughout George Town's alleys and streets.
Indulge in Penang's Food Scene: Embark on a culinary adventure and savor the diverse flavors of Penang's renowned street food. Try local dishes like Char Kway Teow, Asam Laksa, and Hokkien Mee.
Visit Kek Lok Si Temple: Explore the impressive Kek Lok Si Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, and admire its intricate architecture and serene surroundings.
Take a Trishaw Ride: Hop on a colorful trishaw, a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi, and enjoy a leisurely ride through the streets of George Town.
Climb Penang Hill: Take the funicular railway or hike up Penang Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the island and enjoy cooler temperatures at the top.
Go on a Penang Hawker Food Tour: Join a guided food tour to sample an array of Penang's delicious street food offerings, guided by a local food expert.
Visit the Tropical Spice Garden: Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of the Tropical Spice Garden, where you can explore various trails, learn about spices, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Relax at Batu Ferringhi Beach: Spend a day lounging on the sandy shores of Batu Ferringhi Beach, enjoying water activities, or simply soaking up the sun.
Experience the Penang Night Market: Visit the bustling night markets like Batu Ferringhi Night Market or the famous Lorong Baru Market to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and try more local street food.
Learn about Penang's History at Fort Cornwallis: Explore the historic Fort Cornwallis, built by the British East India Company, and delve into Penang's colonial past through exhibits and artifacts.
Best Shopping
Penang is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other goods. There are a number of markets and shops to choose from. Here are some of the best places to shop in Penang:
Jonker Walk: This is a popular night market that is held every night from 6pm to 12am. There are a variety of food stalls, live music, and other entertainment options. You can find a variety of souvenirs, clothes, and other goods at the market.
Pasar Malam Bukit China: This is another popular night market that is held every night from 6pm to 12am. There are a variety of food stalls, live music, and other entertainment options. You can find a variety of souvenirs, clothes, and other goods at the market.
Gurney Plaza: This is a large shopping mall located on Gurney Drive. It has a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops.
Queensbay Mall: This is the largest shopping mall in Penang. It has a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops.
Komtar: This is a large shopping mall located in the heart of George Town. It has a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops.
Prangin Mall: This is a large shopping mall located in the heart of George Town. It has a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops.
1st Avenue Mall: This is a new shopping mall located in the heart of George Town. It has a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops.
Pulau Tikus Market: This is a traditional market located in the Pulau Tikus area of Penang. It has a variety of stores, including fresh produce, meat, seafood, and other goods.
Cecil Street Market: This is a traditional market located in the Cecil Street area of Penang. It has a variety of stores, including fresh produce, meat, seafood, and other goods.
ICT Digital Mall@KOMTAR: This is a mall located in KOMTAR that specializes in electronics and IT products.
Entertainment & Nightlife
These are just a few of the many places to enjoy entertainment and nightlife in Penang. Whether you are looking for live music, dancing, or just a place to relax and enjoy a drink, you are sure to find what you are looking for in this city.
Gurney Drive: This is a popular waterfront area that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Komtar: This is a large shopping mall that is home to a variety of stores, including international brands, local brands, and souvenir shops. It also has a number of restaurants and cafes.
Chinatown: This is a historic area that is home to a variety of Chinese shops, restaurants, and temples. It is a great place to experience the city's culture and heritage.
Little India: This is a historic area that is home to a variety of Indian shops, restaurants, and temples. It is a great place to experience the city's culture and heritage.
Penang Hill: This is a hilltop area that offers panoramic views of the city. It also has a number of restaurants and cafes.
Upper Penang Road: This is a street that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Jonker Walk: This is a street that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Love Lane: This is a lane that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Muntri Street: This is a street that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Magazine Lane: This is a lane that is home to a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. It is a great place to enjoy the nightlife and the views of the city.
Local Cuisine
Penang cuisine is a diverse and delicious mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Peranakan influences. The city is known for its street food, which is some of the best in Malaysia. Some of the most popular dishes include:
Char kway teow: This stir-fried flat rice noodle dish is a Penang specialty. It is typically made with shrimp, cockles, eggs, and Chinese sausage.
Penang curry: is a thick, creamy curry that originated in Penang, Malaysia. It is made with coconut milk, chili peppers, and a variety of spices, including turmeric, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaves. The most common meats used in Penang curry are chicken, beef, and shrimp.
Assam laksa: This sour and spicy noodle soup is another Penang favorite. It is made with a tamarind broth, fish cakes, and cockles.
Nasi kandar: This Malaysian dish of rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes is a popular option for lunch or dinner.
Hokkien mee: This stir-fried noodle dish is a popular Chinese dish in Penang. It is typically made with shrimp, eggs, and Chinese sausage.
Otak-otak: This Malay fish cake is a popular street food in Penang. It is typically grilled and served with a dipping sauce.
Cendol: This Malaysian dessert is made with shaved ice, coconut milk, and a variety of toppings, including red beans, green jelly, and palm sugar syrup.
Restaurant Recommendations
Auntie Gaik Lean's Old School Eatery: This restaurant serves traditional Peranakan cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including assam laksa, char kway teow, and Penang curry.
Chong Fatt Tze - The Blue Mansion: This restaurant is located in a historic mansion and serves a fusion of Chinese and European cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including Peking duck, lobster bisque, and wagyu beef.
Eu Yan Sang: This restaurant serves traditional Chinese cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including dim sum, Peking duck, and seafood.
Gurney Drive: This is a popular hawker center that is home to a variety of food stalls. The stalls serve a variety of dishes, including Penang char kway teow, assam laksa, and nasi kandar.
Hen's Teeth: This is a popular bar that is known for its craft beer selection and its live music. The menu features a variety of dishes, including burgers, pizzas, and wings.
Indigo Restaurant at The Blue Mansion: This restaurant is located in a historic mansion and serves a fusion of Chinese and European cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including Peking duck, lobster bisque, and wagyu beef.
Kebaya Dining Room: This restaurant serves traditional Peranakan cuisine. The menu features a variety of dishes, including assam laksa, char kway teow, and Penang curry.
Laksa Legend: This restaurant is known for its assam laksa. The laksa is made with a sour and spicy broth, and it is served with noodles, fish cakes, and cockles.
Accommodations
Luxury
Eastern & Oriental Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of George Town and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a historic hotel that was built in 1885 and has been renovated to offer modern amenities and luxurious accommodations.
The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion: This mansion is a historic building that was built in the late 19th century. It is now a hotel that offers luxurious accommodations and a glimpse into the life of a wealthy Chinese merchant.
The Datai Langkawi: This resort is located on the island of Langkawi and is known for its stunning beaches and lush rainforests. It offers luxurious accommodations and a variety of activities, including swimming, diving, and hiking.
Mid-Range
Hotel Jen Penang Georgetown by Shangri-La: This hotel is located in the heart of George Town and is a modern hotel that offers stylish accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Ascott Gurney Penang: This serviced apartment is located in Gurney Drive and offers spacious accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and laundry service.
The Wembley, A St. Giles Hotel Penang: This hotel is located in Gurney Drive and offers modern accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Budget
Areca Hotel Penang: This hotel is located in George Town and offers budget-friendly accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Tune Hotel George Town Penang: This hotel is located in George Town and offers budget-friendly accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
Campbell House: This guesthouse is located in George Town and offers budget-friendly accommodations and a variety of amenities, including a common area, laundry service, and free Wi-Fi.
Itinerary
Penang Unveiled: A 3-Day Journey through Heritage, Nature, and Culinary Delights
Day 1: Historical George Town and Cultural Immersion
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to Fort Cornwallis and explore the historical site.
Walk through the vibrant streets of George Town to discover the captivating street art and murals.
Afternoon:
Head to Chew Jetty, one of the clan jetties, and immerse yourself in the local Chinese community's unique lifestyle.
Visit the Khoo Kongsi clanhouse and marvel at its intricate architecture and ornate decorations.
Evening:
Wander along Armenian Street and explore the eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and galleries.
Indulge in a memorable hawker food experience at Gurney Drive, sampling local delights such as Char Kway Teow, Assam Laksa, and Rojak.
Day 2: Nature and Heritage
Morning:
Take a trip to Penang Hill and enjoy panoramic views of the island from the funicular railway.
Explore the beautiful gardens and temples at Kek Lok Si Temple.
Afternoon:
Visit the Penang Botanic Gardens and stroll through the lush greenery, observing the various flora and fauna.
Explore the Penang State Museum to learn about the history and heritage of the state.
Evening:
Experience the lively atmosphere and bustling night market at Batu Ferringhi. Enjoy the beachside ambiance and indulge in delicious local street food.
Day 3: Cultural Delights and Relaxation
Morning:
Visit the Dharmikarama Burmese Temple and appreciate its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
Explore the vibrant and bustling Little India neighborhood, where you can immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Indian culture.
Afternoon:
Relax and enjoy the sun at Batu Ferringhi Beach. Take a dip in the sea or simply lounge on the sandy shores.
Visit the Penang Butterfly Farm and get up close with a variety of colorful butterflies and other insects.
Evening:
Take a leisurely walk along the Esplanade and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the iconic Penang Bridge.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring the flavors of Penang's diverse cuisine.
