Best travel experiences in Penang
In our neighbouring country, no city brims with as many things to do as Penang. For the foodies, discover the city’s street food stalls and Instagrammable cafes. For nature lovers, find adventure at the city’s parks and hills. It’s the perfect holiday destination in Malaysia for solo or group travel — where there’s no shortage of fun to be had.
Here are the best travel experiences in Penang, as recommended by people who call this place home.
When in Penang, make sure you’ve got a full tummy 24/7 with char kway teow, asam laksa, oyster omelette (and many more). Start at Gurney Drive for a good mix of sweet and savoury delights. Or, go on a food tour with an expert foodie guide: an ideal activity for both families and friends.
Once you’ve had your fill, discover what makes Penang a declared haven for all things yummy at the Wonderfood Museum. This interactive museum features over 100 larger-than-life handmade replicas of Penang street food — so make sure not to come with an empty stomach.
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Continue on an intriguing journey at the Penang 3D Trick Art Museum. What makes this 3D museum different from any other? The displays pay homage to all things Penang, from traditional clan jetties to art reflecting present-day culture.
Add culture to your Penang holiday by exploring its vibrant capital: George Town. The British colonial buildings here date back to the 18th century, and house everything from cafes and restaurants to hotels and boutiques. See if you can spot the striking blue Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, where the famous mahjong scene in “Crazy Rich Asians” was filmed.
Opt for the authentic experience by hopping on a trishaw ride of the colourful town. If you’re a history buff, take a step back in time at the city’s historical monuments. One thing’s for sure: Your Instagram feed will be filled with picturesque sights that tell a captivating history.
Climb or take a funicular ride up to Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple: Kek Lok Si Temple. At 800 metres above sea level, this temple features pagodas, archways, sculptures, and carvings; it’s so popular that it even beckons Buddhist pilgrims all the way from Hong Kong and the Philippines.
Recognise the importance of Hinduism 513 steps from the ground at Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Temple: the largest Lord Murugan Temple outside of India. Then, discover Malaysia’s largest sitting Buddha statue at Wat Chayamangkalaram, towering at 180-feet. The best way to explore all of these? By going on a religious walking tour of Penang.
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Go on an educational rainforest experience at the 130-million-year-old Habitat, one of the world’s oldest rainforests perched atop Penang Hill. Test your bravery by heading up to the Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk — the highest point of the island — and see all of Penang at this 360-degree viewing platform.
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Make the most of your time here by fly foxing or zip lining — letting you experience the altitude from a whole different perspective. Surely, you’ll be taking on new heights quite literally.
In Singapore, you’ve got Gardens by the Bay and the glass-domed Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. In Penang, sun rays beam down on one of the country’s largest butterfly gardens at Entopia by Butterfly Farm. Watch the approximately 15,000 free-flying butterflies roam in Natureland. Cast your wishes into the daily butterfly release event. Leave this Penang attraction with knowledge gained from the educational exhibitions and indoor activities. And who knows, you might be lucky enough to watch a butterfly emerge from its cocoon at the Breeding Ground.
Humidity is naturally a part of Southeast Asia, so we’ve become more or less used to it. But on days where it’s particularly sweltering, why not cool off at ESCAPE Penang? Here lies the world’s longest water slide — measuring at 1,111 metres — which takes around three minutes to course through. If that wasn’t already impressive, the theme park also recently unveiled the world’s longest zip coaster.
You’ll also find an aquatic playhouse, go karts, balance beam walking, and many more things to do at this Penang attraction. Since it’s also right next to Entopia, be sure to set aside an entire day to come here with the whole family.
After working up a sweat, spend the rest of the evening (and night) with — you guessed it — even more delicious food! Start at Chulia Street (one of George Town’s oldest roads) and have your pick from appetisers to main courses and Chinese or Indian cuisine, with all dishes ranging from RM0.50 to RM6.
Kimberley Street Food Night Market boasts even more options, including drinks and dessert. Our tip? Order a bit of everything and enjoy a feast of the best that Penang has to offer.
Aside from having your fix of Penang street food, there’s so much more to do here. Whether you’re looking for a tranquil time in the woods or want to feel the rush at a waterpark, a Penang holiday is sure to satisfy all your travel needs.
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