Exploring Penang

Penang is also lovingly called the Pearl of the Orient. It is an island with a colourful history, vibrant people and offers spectacular local cuisine.

There is a variety of activities to suit everyone. Be it food, shopping, outdoors, heritage and culture, all are available on the island!

Food is a big topic on the island. Yes, Penangites are passionate about Penang food that they even blog about it! When in Penang, you definitely have to taste the local cuisine or if you are adventurous, join the locals and go for the hawker's food!

Penang sees an amalgamation of culture. Trace the history of Penang by walking along the streets of Georgetown, venture into China Town or Little India, or simply follow the Penang Heritage Trail.

Tourist Attractions

Below is a list of touristy places to visit:

• Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
• Kek Lok Si
• Burmese Temple
• Khoo Kongsi
• Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
• Reclining Buddha
• Goddess of Mercy Temple
• Kapitan Kling Mosque
• Little India
• Esplanade/ Fort Cornwallis
• Clock Tower
• Gurney Drive
• Penang Peranakan Mansion

Outdoors

If you are fan of the great outdoors, Penang offers you many beaches, and green hills. Head off to Batu Ferringhi for some water sports, or even for a swim. For nature lovers, there are several nature trails to explore up towards Penang Hill.

If renting a car, you could also plan for a round the island tour. Whilst on the drive around the island, check the less explored national park out. Not forgetting to stop by some fruit orchards in Balik Pulau, and taste the yummy Assam Laksa at the Balik Pulau market.

Cultural & Heritage Attractions

In the midst of all the urban development, Penang people strive to retain its culture and precious heritage. Explore the heart of Georgetown and its surrounding, and you will discover many interesting sights.

Attractions like the Khoo Kongsi, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Kapitan Kling Mosque, Penang Peranakan Mansion listed above are merely few of the many places that can tell you stories of the past and current Penang.

Here are some useful links to plan some cultural and historical exploration:

• Lestari Heritage Network
• Penang Heritage Trust
• Penang Heritage Sites

Shopping

• Island Plaza
• Gurney Plaza
• One-Stop Midlands Plaza
• Penang Plaza
• Prangin Mall
• Queensbay Mall

For more details of places to shop on Penang Island, refer to the Shopper's Directory from the Penang Tourism website.