Penang, Malaysia - What to See

Penang in Malaysia has Museums, Mosques, Gardens & Parks

Jan 11, 2008

Penang Malaysia is a gift to the heritage lover, as this small island has more than its fair share of well-preserved heritage buildings, plus beaches on which to relax.

Penang, Malaysia, is a blend of East and West, where old world charm blends modernity, and beaches entice with clean sands and sparkling seas. Known for its harmonious multi-racial populace, the seat of government is in Georgetown, the capital, which still carries traces of an older colonial world.

What To See and Do in Penang

Built in 1820, the vernacular-style mosque features an octagonal minaret and a Moorish arcade.

Large and well preserved, its numerous clan houses, shophouses and temples offer a fascinating insight into the lifestyle of the early Chinese settlers who came in the 1800’s.

This fort was built on the site of Sir Francis Light’s historic landing in 1786. Originally a wooden stockade, it is now a concrete structure and currently houses cannons, a history gallery and an open-air amphitheatre.

A town that dates back over two centuries and has the 167 year old Sri Mahamariamman Temple. The pre-war terrace buildings now house restaurants, jewellery and textile shops, as well as spice emporiums.

Reputed to be the biggest Buddhist temple complex in S.E. Asia, it stands on a hill in Air Iram and boasts the beautiful Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas which blends Chinese, Burmese, and Thai architecture.

Malaysia’s first hill station, Penang Hill is 830 metres above sea level. Reach the top via funicular in operation since 1922, or you can hike to the top. The cool climate there ensures a large crowd during the hot season. Fantastic views from the summit.

In the park are excellent hiking trails which lead to secluded beaches at Telak Duyang, Muka Head and Pantal Kerachut. It also has a turtle nesting site.

Spanning 5 acres and housing some 800 birds from all over the world it is beautifully landscaped and features a walk-in aviary and many ornamental plants.. Home to 3,000 living specimens from over 50 species of colourful butterflies, frogs, scorpions and other insects

Penang Museum. Hundreds of old prints, paintings, clay, stone and porcelain ware highlight the important periods in Penang’s development.

This mansion contains elaborate traditional costumes and accessories, porcelain, furniture, works of art brought from China and Europe as well as artefacts relating to the history of the Baba Nyonya people

The favourite haunt of food enthusiasts, this coastal road is famous for its hawker foodstalls and restaurants. A mouth-watering selection of Penang specialities is found here, such as asam laksa, hokkien mee, chee cheong fun, rojak etc.

One of the oldest landmarks in the city named after the patron saint of England. It features a memorial canopy dedicated to Captain Francis Light.

An 8-acre garden which has over 500 varieties of plants in a tropical environment.

Built around the remnants of a British Fort, this 20-acre museum contains several installations above and below ground where old war relics are stored.

Penang is a shopper's paradise especially noted for electronic and electrical goods, cameras, batic clothing and wall hangings, and antiques. Coupled with a good choice of concerts, dramas, cultural performances and sports and recreational activities, this makes Penang ideal for any type of holiday

The copyright of the article Penang, Malaysia - What to See in Malaysia Travel is owned by Mari Nicholson. Permission to republish Penang, Malaysia - What to See in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.