Located in the northwest region of Malaysia, near the border with Thailand, Penang Island wasn’t initially the first thing on my mind when I traveled to Malaysia. However, as I explored its landscape and heritage, Penang became the highlight of my trip. So, let me take you on a brief tour of the best things to do in Penang, from Georgetown to Kek Lok Si Temple.

Georgetown

I can’t start talking about Penang without mentioning Georgetown. This historical city was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2008. The city is incredibly dynamic and brings together various ethnic communities living within the area. Its architecture reflects the rich colonial past and Peranakan heritage, allowing you to take your time appreciating all the buildings. As you explore its narrow alleys, you’ll stumble upon numerous pieces of street art, often by accident. One of the major streets to explore is Love Lane, where you’ll encounter boutique houses, traditional buildings, and charming cafes. It’s a delightful place to immerse yourself in the city’s history.

Street Art walk with Ernest Zacharevic

As I mentioned above, Georgetown is renowned for its street art. While many cities are known for it, the street art in Georgetown is truly exceptional. Several artists have displayed their artwork throughout the city, resulting in a diverse collection of cultural compositions. The Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic gained widespread recognition in 2012 for creating six distinct artworks that depict the Malaysian way of life. You can easily find their locations online, but they may still be pleasantly hidden when you arrive, adding to the thrill of the search. Additionally, you’ll stumble upon other artworks, so take your time to explore and attempt to discover them all.

Penang Peranakan Mansion

This splendid house with a green facade once belonged to Chung Keng Kwee, a significant figure in the Chinese community during the 19th century. The interior of the house showcases elegant and opulent architecture. The rooms are adorned with British and Chinese artifacts that contribute to the luxurious decor. On the first floor, you will conclude your visit with a collection of British glass and porcelain, along with a traditional wedding room. I would recommend visiting with a tour guide, but you can also explore it on your own.

Khoo Kongsi Temple

The final step in Georgetown is Khoo Kongsi Temple. Established in 1901, the temple belongs to the Khoo clan, the largest Hokkien clan in Malaysia, demonstrating its strong presence and prosperity. Although the temple has undergone multiple renovations over the years, it has kept its cultural and historical significance, proudly showcasing the Hokkien heritage. Its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Georgetown in 2008 further solidifies its importance, making it a significant and essential stop on your itinerary.

The next points are situated outside of Georgetown, so first, let me provide a brief explanation of how you can navigate around:

How to move around in Malaysia :

The most convenient way to get around Penang is by car. While the city does have many taxis, they can sometimes be challenging to find. You might think about using Uber, but the country does not use it widely. Instead, I would recommend using Grab. Grab is a Singaporean ride-sharing app, similar to Uber, but it is more popular in Southeast Asia. It became the leader in the region and in 2018, Uber sold its operations to Grab. The app is easy to use, cheap, and convenient so it should help you greatly during your trip.

Penang Hill

This hill, situated just outside Georgetown, is renowned for its refreshing climate and offers a magnificent panoramic view of the city. It was highly favored by British settlers, which is why you’ll discover British-style bungalows and English names in the area. You can reach the hill’s summit in under 10 minutes using a funicular, but for the more adventurous ones, there’s also a challenging forest path. At the hill’s peak, you’ll encounter a temple, a mosque, and various trails leading into the forest, making it a delightful destination for those seeking an escape from the city.

David Brown’s Tea Terrace

At the top of Penang Hill, you can make a stop at David Brown’s Tea Terrace. This traditional British-style bungalow is a perfect spot to take a break, savor afternoon tea, and breathe in the fresh air. The café is charming both inside and out, but I would recommend staying on the terrace if the weather permits. The terrace boasts a delightful garden and offers yet another breathtaking view of the city.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Located in the same area as Penang Hill, Kek Lok Si Temple stands as the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. The temple has distinct levels, and each tier offers a unique viewpoint. The prayer halls, shrines, and gardens create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. One of the main highlights is the Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, adorned with thousands of Buddha images. At the top of the hill, a 30-meter bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, watches over the entire complex. You can access the temple using a funicular, on foot, or by car.

Tropical Spice Garden

The Tropical Spice Garden is my favorite place in Penang and a relaxing experience to include in your trip. This garden owns a vast array of tropical plants, including fruit trees, spice bushes, and exquisite orchids that bloom just once a year. As you wander through the garden, you’ll find benches, hammocks, and a swing that provide a perfect setting to relax and enjoy the view. If you’d like to dig deeper into the experience, guided tours are available, and you’ll find a lovely shop if you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home.

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