Penang and North West
Penang's reputation for outstanding beaches have made it one of the most popular destinations in Malaysia. Whilst you will find better beaches elsewhere in Malaysia, the best beach on Penang is at Batu Ferringhi where most of the major resorts are located. The islands major town is Georgetown and is the closest point to the mainland. The passenger ferry operates across the 3km wide channel between Georgetown and the coast. Penang is also linked to mainland Peninsular Malaysia by a bridge but the easiest way to get to Penang is by air from Kuala Lumpur with regular scheduled flights. Georgetown itself is a fairly compact city and easily explored on foot or by bicycle rickshaw.
Recommended Accommodation
3.5 Star Category
Situated at Tanjung Bungah Beach close to the hawker food stalls at Gurney Drive. An idyllic getaway with an uncrowded and unspoilt beachfront.
4 Star Category
An intimate retreat in the heart of Batu Ferringhi Beach considered Penangs finest. Night market and restaurants are at the hotel doorstep as well as all the beach water sports.
5 Star Category
Located on a prime beachfront at Teluk Bahang, otherwise known as the 'glowing bay' not far from Batu Ferringhi Beach. The resort stands secluded and tranquil, surrounded by lush, tropical landscaped gardens. All guest rooms boast of balconies with sea and garden views with all the amenities you would expect of a leading 5 star hotel.
Recommended Tours
A quick glimpse at the major sights.
A scenic look at the island including beautiful Batu Ferringhi Beach. A visit also to the Snake Temple with its poisonous vipers and a Batik factory - Penang is famous for Batik.
Soak up all the atmosphere and fun of the city after dark.
Travel across the longest bridge in South East Asia connecting Penang to the mainland. Visit the birdpark and travel back to Penang by the scenic ferry.
Recommended Attractions
Kek Lok Si Temple, Air Itam
One of the finest Buddhist temples in South East Asia, the Kek Lok Si temple stands majestically on a hill in Ayer Itam. Built in tiers, the temple culminates with the beautifully crafted 'Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas'. Taking more than 20 years to build, the temple is set against beautiful scenic surroundings. It features gardens, a turtle pond, shrines and beautiful sculptures.
Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
Malaysia's first hill station, Penang Hill is 830 metres above sea level. Visitors can ascend to the top by either hiking up or by the railway. Apart from the cool, refreshing climate and the fantastic view at the summit, visitors can also view the picturesque bungalows, a beautiful flower garden and a bird park. A particularly nice time to visit is a dusk when the lights of Georgetown flicker on.
Clock Tower, Pesara King Edward
Towering 60 feet high, the clock tower was presented to Penang by local millionaire Cheah Chen Eok in 1897 to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.
Fort Cornwallis, Lebuh Light
The fort was built on the site of Francis Light's historic landing in 1786. Originally a wooden stockade, it was replaced by a concrete structure built by convict labor, in 1804. Today, an open-air amphitheater, a history gallery, and a handicraft and souvenir centre occupies the interior. It houses the famous Dutch cannon presented to the Sultan of Johor by the Dutch and which finally found its way to Penang after being looted by the Portuguese.
Goddess of Mercy Temple, Jalan Kapitan Keling
One of the oldest chinese temples in Penang. "Kuan Yin Teng" or Goddess of Mercy temple was built in 1800 by early immigrants from China. Decorated with intricately crafted dragons and stone sculptured lions believed to be its guardians. The temple is flocked by pilgrims and followers all year round especially during the three anniversaries of Kuan Yin which are the 19th day of the second, sixth and ninth lunar month. Chinese opera or puppet theatre is performed in the granite-paved forecourt on the Goddess's feast days.
Komtar, Jalan Penang
The Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak, a prominent Penang landmark, houses Government departments, commercial offices, department stores, shops and restaurants. The 65-storey complex also contains theaters and squash courts while the 55th floor offers a panoramic view of the city and on clear days.
Botanical Gardens, Jalan Kebun Bunga
Offers peace and tranquility amidst green surroundings, tropical plants and vibrant colours of Penang flora. This 30-ha garden also features a waterfall. Created in 1884 by the British, it was meant to be a tribute to Charles Curtis, its first superintendent who collected botanical specimens from the surrounding hills — specimens which have since become significant samples in the world's major herbariums. The garden is well-known for its bold Rhesus monkeys. The garden is also a favourite spot for jogging and picnics.
Penang Bridge
Reputed to be the longest in Asia and third longest in the world, it took three and a half years to complete. Stretching 13.5 km from Seberang Prai on the mainland to Gelugor on the island, this architectural wonder was officially opened in September 1988, offering beautiful views of the open sea, ships and the sprawling coastline.
Recommened Dining
Forum Restaurant
Delicately fashioned morsels of tasty treats. Housed within an upmarket shopping complex, you get great Chinese ambience without paying hotel Chinese restaurant prices. Offers extensive menu and its desserts defy description.
House of Four Seasons Restaurant
Chinese culinary specialties such as Cantonese and Szechuan are served in an elegant setting recalling all the opulence of Old China. Awarded 3 times, one of Malaysia's finest restaurants by Malaysia tatler.
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