WORLD ▫ ASIA ▫ MALAYSIA ▫ PENANG
State mosque
Completed in 1980, it stands majestically on a 4.5 hectare site in the Greenlane surburb and is one of the most beautiful mosques in the country. A magnificient chandelier measuring 20 feet by 16 feet adorns the prayer hall which can accommodate 5000 worshipers. From the top of the 170 feet minaret, a panoramic view of Georgetown can be seen.
Permission to visit the mosque must be obtained from the State Religious Department. Appropriate dressing is required.
| One Day in Hatyai from Penang |
12 hours |
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Hatyai or Mini Bangkok is the shopping and food paradise of southern Thailand, located approximately 3 hours north of Penang. The journey by road to the border town takes you through picturesque padi fields, rubber estates and typical Malay villages.
In Hatyai, relax and enjoy local Thai cuisines and bargain shopping in town. Return to Penang in the early evening. Meals are at your own expense.
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Forest Recreation Park
This is a beautifully landscaped park, on the northwest coast. It covers 100 hectares, has several freshwater pools, footpaths, rest huts, and a children's playground. There is a forestry museum which houses exhibits of tropical timbers and their products and preserved insect species. Located at Telok Bahang, 24 km from Georgetown. Admission is free.
Kapitan Kling Mosque
This is Penang's first mosque, built around 1800 to replace an old attap structure that had been constructed in 1786 by an Indian Muslim merchant, Cauder Mohideen who was then the `Kling Kapitan' (Indian Muslim Headsman). Its dome shaped and well placed minaret reflects Islamic architecture of Indian influence. It is painted ochre yellow and has a green roof.
| type: | general |
| address: | Pitt Street |
Penang Hill
A popular rendezvous for the local people and visitors, the hill is 830 metres above sea level. Transport to the summit is by means of a funicular railway which takes 30 minutes. Here the temperature drops to 18 C, a welcome change from the heat below. It offers a panoramic view of Georgetown and the coastal areas of the mainland. Facilities up the hill include a children's playground, teahouse, hotel, hill mosque and an Indian temple. The railway station is located at Air Itam and the services normally operate until late evening.
| Penang Spice Trail |
3 hours |
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Embark on an interesting journey back to the time to the Spice Trade in Penang. Begin the trail from Fort Cornwallis which marks the point where Captain Francis Light first landed and where the spice trade started. Later proceed to the Western side of the island, see clover and nutmeg trees growing on hillslopes and stop at a local fruit stall before proceeding to the Spice Garden.
Tour the garden and learn of the various types of spices and visit the unique spice museum. Option to enjoy lunch in the Garden's Coffee Terrace at the end of the tour.
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| Seafood Village and Cultural Show |
2 hours |
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The Seafood Village is the biggest and best seafood restaurant in Penang, with a maximum capacity of 1,000 people. Built in Malay architectural style, the restaurant faces the Batu Ferringhi beachfront and offers a wide selection of fresh, succulent seafood, served in either Western, Chinese or local style.
During dinner, enjoy a cultural show (performed nightly) which includes dances from the multi-cultures of Malaysia - Indian, Malay and Chinese.
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Kuan Yin (Goddess of Mercy) Temple
 Also known as the temple of the Goddess of Mercy, it was built in 1800 by the first Chinese settlers of the Hokkien and Cantonese communities. The temple has been designed in the finest tradition of ancient Chinese architecture. It attracts both ardent pilgrims seeking the assistance of Kuan Yin and tourists. Puppet shows are staged in the temple grounds during the Goddess' birthday celebrations in March and October.
| type: | general |
| address: | Pitt Street |
Penang State Museum
The museum was officially opened on 14 April 1965. In the same year, the art gallery was added to the Museum. The Museum hosts archive and artifacts that are state treasures. Outstanding amongst these are eight of the ten original oil paintings executed by Captain Robert Smith (the remaining two being in a private collection).
Other artifacts of note include extensive collections of Baba Nyonya porcelain, furniture, jewellery and costumes that are unsurpassed in their artistic beauty and historical value.
| type: | general |
| openinghours: | daily from 9.00am - 5.00pm |
| Teluk Bahang Nature Tour in Penang |
7 hours |
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Visit the Tropical Agro Farm in Teluk Bahang and take a farm tour of some 140 species of tropical fruits and spices. Later visit Penang's only arboretum and learn of the origin and by-products of various trees.
Adjourn to Penang Butterfly Farm, a sanctuary for over 120 species of rare and exotic butterflies. The farm is complete with a hatchery and a "Preserved Butterflies of the World" museum. Enjoy lunch at the nearby Tropical Spice Garden before proceeding to tour the garden planted with some 500 living specimens of plants and spices of the tropics.
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| Pulau Payar Marine Park from Penang |
8 hours |
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One hour each way from Penang by high-speed catamaran, explore Pulau Payar, the only Marine Park off the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia. The crystal clear water is reputed to support a multitude of colorful marine life and large species of corals, and is ideal for snorkeling.
Scuba diving can be arranged at additional cost. Buffet lunch is served at the platform. Facilities include an underwater observatory.
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| Grand Penang Tour |
7 hours |
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Cover the highlights of Penang Island in one day!
Begin the tour by going round the island and visit a Batik Factory, typical Malay villages, the unique Snake Temple and an international jewelry factory at the Free Trade zone. View Asia's longest bridge and stop for lunch at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, tour Malaysia's first hill station, Penang Hill which is 720 meters above sea level. Enjoy the funicular railway ride, the cool, refreshing climate and the fantastic view at the summit. Drive through Colonial Georgetown before returning to your hotel.
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Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Built by a Kwangtung businessman, this Chinese mansion of the 18th and 19th century is believed to be one of only three such buildings remaining outside China. The building has ancient tiled roofs, cobbled courtyards, russet brick walls and steel spiral stairways. It contains collections of rare porcelain, sculptures and carvings, tapestries and embroideries, lacquers, bronzes and other antiques.
| type: | general |
| address: | Leith Street |
| Tropical Fruit Farm in Penang |
3 hours |
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Visit Penang's only Tropical Fruit Farm located in Teluk Bahang, perched on a hillside overlooking the Indian Ocean. Take a guided farm tour and learn about 200 species of tropical fruits and exotic spices.
Tropical Fruit Farm is an ideal location for cultivating many types of tropical and sub-tropical fruit trees. The orchard covers 25 acres and it was developed back in 1993. Opportunity to taste the various fruits available.
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Fort Cornwallis and King Edward Circus Clock Tower
Originally a wooden structure, it was rebuilt between 1808 and 1810 by convict labour. Protruding from the fort's rampart are cannons retrieved by the British from pirates who had captured them from the Johore Sultanate.The main cannon 'Seri Rambau' is said to date back to 1613 and, according to local belief, childless women can conceive by placing flowers in its barrel and offering special prayers.The fort is also used as an amphitheatre.
The 60 foot clock tower built at the entrance to the the fort was presented to the town by a local millionaire in 1897 in conjunction with Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee, each foot signifying one year of her reign. Both structures above are at the Esplanade.
Botanical Gardens
It is the only one in Malaysia and occupies an area of 30 hectares, set in an ideal valley-like area surrounded by forested hills. The garden has a collection of both local and tropical flora and fauna. There are hundreds of trees and flowery plants and dozens of plant houses and nurseries, fern gardens and lily ponds. Attractions also include a replica of the Penang bridge, the library and of course, the rhesus monkeys. In the evening, it is the favourite spot for family picnics and jogging. Located off the Waterfall Road.
Penang bridge
The bridge is cable stayed, 13.5 km long, 8.5 km over water, the rest consisting of a viaduct on the island side with a flyover on the mainland. Longest in Asia, reputedly third longest in the world. The island end of the bridge begins near the University at Gelugor and the mainland end at Seberang Jaya. Toll is payable. Visitors not permitted to stop along bridge.
| Hill and Temple Tour in Penang |
4 hours |
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Walk up the steps to Southeast Asia's largest Buddhist temple in Penang, Kek Lok Si, perched against a hill slope in Air Itam. Marvel at the statue of the Goddess of Mercy and the 30 meter high Pagoda. See the 'Pond of Longevity', home for hundreds of tortoises set free by the devotees.
Ride on the Funicular Railway up to Penang Hill. Next, visit the century old 72-acres Penang Botanical Gardens located at the foot of Penang Hill. Stroll through the main gardens, learn about the rare species of flora and fauna while monkeys roam freely in their natural habitats.
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| Penang Airport Arrival Transfer |
Varies |
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Travel from Penang Airport to your Penang Hotel. Choose between a shared vehicle transfer, and your own private vehicle transfer.
When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight details and your accommodation details. Your transfer will be confirmed within 24 hours and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver.
Don't forget to book your Hotel to Airport transfer!
Vehicles used:
- SHARED - Air-conditioned Minivan / Minicoach
- PRIVATE - Air-conditioned Sedan Car (1 to 2 people)
- PRIVATE - Air-conditioned Minivan (3 to 9 people)
At time of booking, YOU MUST include the following flight and hotel details:
- Arrival Flight Number
- Arrival Time
- Hotel Name (where you would like to be dropped off)
- Hotel Address
Click here for more information and Booking Details
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| Butterfly Farm and Botanical Garden in Penang |
3 hours |
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Visit the Butterfly Farm in Teluk Bahang, Penang, a sanctuary for over 120 species of rare and exotic tropical butterflies. The farm is complete with a hatchery and a "Preserved Butterflies of the World" museum.
Next, visit the century old, 72-acre Penang Botanical Garden located at the foot of Penang Hill. Stroll through the main gardens, learn about the rare species of flora and fauna while monkeys roam freely in their natural habitats.
Click here for more information and Booking Details
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| Georgetown by Night with Trishaw Ride |
3 hours |
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Georgetown comes to life in a blaze of light at night. Savor the famous Penang local dishes at one of the many open-air food stall centers. Taste the popular 'satay' sticks of barbecued meat and 'char koay teow' noodles fried with seafood while watching how they are prepared.
Relax after dinner by taking a trishaw ride through the heart of old Georgetown. Enjoy one round of drinks at the only revolving restaurant that offers a panoramic night view of Georgetown before returning to the hotel.
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Sri Mariamman Temple
Built in 1883, it is the oldest and most famous Hindu temple in Penang. It contains fascinating scupltured gods and goddesses, amongst them a priceless statue of Lord Subramaniam decorated in gold, diamonds and other precious stones. The temple has a scupltured tower at the entrance and inside it are the symbols of the nine planets. The signs of the zodiac are carved in wood on the ceiling. Admission is free.
| type: | general |
| address: | Queen Street |
| Georgetown Heritage |
3 hours |
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Captain Light first established Fort Cornwallis on the island of Penang, and the city of Georgetown was laid out around it. Take a trishaw from Fort Cornwallis, where Captain Francis Light first landed, have a leisurely ride through the colorful Little India and bustling Chinatown.
Admire the intricate carvings and woodwork of Khoo Kongsi before proceeding to the Peranakan Museum which houses many priceless antique collections of the Straits Settlement era.
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Youth Park
 The park is ideal for picnicking, camping, archery and aero-modelling. Hikers can use a foothpath that leads to Penang Hill. The centre piece of the park is a roller-skating rink. Located at Quarry Drive near the Botanical Gardens.
| Footstep of Francis Light |
3 hours |
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Penang was founded by Captain Francis Light in the year 1786 during the spice trade era. Visit Fort Cornwallis which was constructed to protect against invaders. Take a stroll at King Edward place, view historical buildings such as the Anglican Church, the courthouse, the Penang Museum, Penang Art Gallery and the Eastern and Oriental Hotel.
Proceed to the Chew Jetty, the early stilted Chinese settlement and later to the colourful Little India, bustling Chinatown and Coco House in inner Georgetown and followed by a visit to the Christian Cemetery where Francis Light was laid to rest. Final stop at Botanical Garden, commissioned during the British rule, to learn about the rare species of floral and fauna while monkeys roam freely in their natural habitats.
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Snake Temple
The Snake Temple or the Temple of the Azure Cloud, which was built in 1850 on a hillock by the roadside, is dedicated to the diety Char Soo Kong. It is a sanctuary for pit vipers which coil around objects on the altars and other parts of the temple. Although poisonous, these snakes are not known to bite. Devotees refer to them as `officers' of the deity and regard them as `holy and harmless'.
| type: | general |
| address: | Bayan Lepas about 1.5 km. from the International Airport |
| Penang Hill by Night |
3 hours |
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A unique experience to dine at Colonial Penang Hill, Malaysia's first hill station accessible by one of the world's oldest funicular railway systems.
Feel the cool and refreshing air at the summit. Dinner is served at the cosy Bellevue Hotel overlooking Georgetown with panaromic night views of the town and of parts of mainland Malaysia.
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Logan Memorial and high court
A marble statue stands in the high court compound dedicated to James Richardson Logan, a prominent lawyer and one-time editor of the `Penang Gazette'. Logan devoted his life to serving the public and was a strong advocate of freedom of speech, law and order until his death in 1869. Located in Farquhar Street opposite the Museum.
| type: | general |
| address: | Farquhar Street |
KOMTAR
 KOMTAR is a 65 storey tower atop a 4-storey podium block. Tallest in SE Asia, it houses all government departments, prime commercial space with civic and recreational facilities. KOMTAR is stragetically situated in the heart of the city on a 11 hectare site.
| Monkey Beach Excursion |
5 hours |
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Take a 30 minute boat ride from Penang to an uninhabited white sandy beach fringed with coconut trees and frequented by monkeys from the nearby jungle. Enjoy the sun, the sea and the barbeque lunch by the beach.
For those who love fishing, you can try your luck with the equipment provided and if your into adventure, take a short jungle trek in the surrounding foothills.
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St. George's Church
A magnificient edifice built by convicts between 1817 and 1819, it is the oldest Anglican church in South-East Asia. In front of the church stands a monument to Capt. Francis Light. The building has semi-arches, mouldings, doric columns and pillars; the roof which was originally flat is now gable-shaped. Also located next to the Museum
| Penang City Tour |
3 hours |
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Take a drive through colonial Georgetown to Fort Cornwallis, the most prominent historical remains of Penang. Learn about the strait settlement history and rich heritage of Penang at the State Museum.
Visit Chew Jetty, the early stilted Chinese settlement of Penang and later the colorful Little India and the bustling Chinatown before stopping at Royal Selangor to witness the unique art of Pewter craftsmanship.
Final stop is Wat Chayamankalaram, which houses one of the world's largest reclining Buddha. Option to drop off for shopping at Gurney Plaza.
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| Round Island Tour of Penang |
4 hours |
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Explore Penang the 'Pearl of the Orient' from its sandy shores to the quaint countryside. Visit the Batik Factory to experience the traditional technique of batik printing using wax and dyes.
Stop to visit a Malay Kampung (a 'kampung' is an old style Malaysian village), before visiting the legendary Snake Temple, where Pit Vipers adorn the altars. Stop at OE Design, an international jewelry factory located at the Free Trade Zone.
Observe how gold, platinum and gemstones are put together into a fine piece of jewelry. View the 3rd longest bridge in the world which links the island to the mainland and journey through historic Georgetown before returning to the hotel.
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| Penang Airport Departure Transfer |
Varies |
|
Travel from your Penang hotel to the Penang Airport. Choose between a shared vehicle transfer, and your own private vehicle transfer.
When making a booking, you will need to advise your flight details and your accommodation details. Your transfer will be confirmed within 24 hours and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver. 24 - 48 hours prior to your Hotel to Airport transfer, you will be required to reconfirm exact pick up times and places (the contact number will be provided on your travel voucher).
Don't forget to book your Airport to Hotel transfer!
Vehicles used:
- SHARED - Air-conditioned Minivan / Minicoach
- PRIVATE - Air-conditioned Sedan Car (1 to 2 people)
- PRIVATE - Air-conditioned Minivan (3 to 9 people)
At time of booking, YOU MUST include the following flight and hotel details:
Departure Flight Number
Departure Time
Hotel Name (where you would like to be picked up from)
Hotel Address
Click here for more information and Booking Details
|

Wat Chayamangkalaram
A Buddhist temple of Thai architecture on a 5-acre site, it houses the world's third largest reclining Buddha which measures 33 metres. Behind the statue are niches where urns containing the ashes of the dead are stored. A nine-storey pagoda approximately 165 feet high and reputed to be the highest such structure in the country is found on the site. There are also statues of gigantic `naga' serpents, mystical creatures that link earth to heaven, from the balustrades at the entrance to the meditation hall. Admission is free. Photography is not permitted within the temple.
| type: | general |
| address: | Burmah Lane |
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