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Things to Do in Penang

Penang is an amazing city to visit and the best things to do in Penang includes various activities including sightseeing, adventure activities and various others. Malaysia is a country which hosts millions of tourists throughout the year. Penang is a major city of Malaysia and hosts the majority of those tourists. It is a major tourist hub of Malaysia as there are hundreds of things which one can do in Penang. The city has had a very rich history due to which, over the course of time, some outstanding monuments and places have been built in the city. The Fort Cornwallis is one of the top historic monuments of Penang. It has long served in the protection of the city and one gets to learn a lot about the Malaysian history by visiting the Fort Cornwallis. Since Penang is a coastal city, it has several beaches in the city. Beaches of Penang are the main attraction for the people visiting Malaysia. One gets to witness few of the best beaches on the planet in Penang. One can just lay down and sunbathe in the perfect beaches here.

The added advantage of visiting the beaches in Penang are the water sports activities available here. Parasailing is the most sought-after water activity in Penang. One is tied to a parachute and the other end of the rope is tied to a speedboat. The speed of the speedboat makes the person tied to the parachute go up in the air and one feels as if they are flying. Penang is an animal-friendly city and therefore one can find quite a few national parks and sanctuaries here. People from all over the country come to Penang in order to observe the different species of animals in Penang. Penang is a beautiful city to visit and one should visit it at least once in their lifetime to explore the best things to do in Penang.

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The Habitat Penang Hill
Located on the Penang Island of Malaysia, this hill is a group of hills. Penang hill is the highest peak with its western hill at 833 meters above sea level. The highest peak is accessible by Penang Railway Station and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Malaysia. The lush rainforests of the hill are one of the main attractions dating back to 130 million years in the past, older than Amazon rainforests. This beautiful hill is listed in the World Network of Biosphere Reserve (WNBR).
Entopia Penang
Entopia Penang is one of Malaysia’s largest butterfly farms and is home to more than 15,000 butterflies that can fly freely inside the park premises. Entopia is also home to more than 200 species of flora and over 150 species of fauna. Apart from butterflies, the other resident species include insects and creepy crawlies. Visitors get to learn more about nature and its smallest creatures at the interactive edu-stations situated amidst the recreated natural habitats of numerous species.
Tanjung Bungah Beach

Half an hour drive from Georgetown sits this beautiful beachside in the suburb of Tanjung Bungah. Despite being a sleepy fishing village, Tanjung Bungah has become popular among the tourists due it its accessibility from the main and world-class scenic resorts. If you visit Malaysia and want to try the adventure water sports then this place should be on your bucket list as it’s the Mecca of adventure.

Adventure Zone Theme Park
The Adventure Zone is an excellent family entertainment arena for children and adults. This Theme Park is built in a 10,300 sq ft indoor facility that includes family-style activities for teens and adults to interact in a safe environment. The area is air-conditioned and consists of three categories of exciting drop slides. Moreover, there are multiple sections of modular play equipment. The guests can easily access other facilities like a reception area, toddler zone, retail and snack counter and kids club.



Highlights: There are a number of daily activities which are especially planned for the entertainment of the guests. The people are advised to wear socks when they are on any play equipment. Long sleeves shirts are advisable when using any of the slides.

Location: Adventure Zone Theme Park is situated in Golden Sands Resort, Penang, Malaysia.

Best Time: 10am-7pm.

Price: Children- MYR 48 nett for half-day package (Resort guests). Adult entry is free.
Escape Adventure Play Theme Park
Escape Adventure play is one of the finest theme parks in Malaysia. This wonderful amusement park was opened for the public on 7th November, 2012. Its Escape Water play has been recently launched and consists of superb water rides. The whole area is filled with interesting adventurous activities that would suit the preference of adults as well as kids.



Highlights: Monkey Business, Flying Lemur, Kite Flyer and Tubby Racer are some of the popular activities in this Adventure Park. Monkey School and Tot’s Trail are the preferred locations for kids. There are numerous eating joints and recreational centres in the area that makes it a fun experience.

Location: Escape Adventureplay Theme Park is situated in Teluk Bahana an area in Penang, Malaysia. People can access the bus service Penang 101 & 102 for reaching this location.

Best Time: 9am- 6pm on Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Monday.

Price: The ticket prices vary for families, school groups and corporates.
Escape Theme Park Penang

With a wealth of water slides, a thrilling rope obstacle course, and holding a Guinness World Record that takes three minutes to descend, including high energy games and rides, Escape Park Klis is a great way to reconnect with the natural world. Constructed in 44- acres of wasteland, the part is surrounded by lush greens and offers 25+ thrilling activities, including rock climbing, rope courses, water slides, ziplining, etc.

Pulau Jerejak / Jerejak Island
Pulau Jerejak / Jerejak Island is a short ferry ride from Bayan Lepas. It was the main leper asylum for the Straits Settlements, quarantine station and penal colony. Today, the development of Jerejak remains riddled with controversies as concerns rise for the removal of the island’s historical remains and heritage and the impact of new developments on the fragile eco system of the island.

Location: The 362 hectare island is situated at the south-eastern tip of Penang, Malaysia. A short ferry ride can be taken from Bayan Lepas to reach here.

Highlights: Conversion of Jerejak into a resort was planned since 2000. The island is merely ten minutes away from the hustling Penang Island. Transportation is simple with ferry rides available.

Best time: The green island can be explored at any time during the year and a three days stay at the place will leave you with a wonderful experience.

Price: Cost includes ferry rides and accommodation only.

Penang Tropical Fruit Farm
The Penang Tropical Fruit Farm is an exemplary proof of Malaysia’s 370 species of edible fruits which include some very exotic ones too that entice even the fussiest eaters. The fruit farm preserves the green heritage of Malaysia. It contributes to the future generations as plantation of local as well as fruits from around the world is done at these farms.

Location: The Penang Tropical Fruit Farm is located at Jalan Teluk Bahang in George Town, Malaysia.

Highlights: The farm sprawls across an area of 25 acres. More than 250 types of tropical and sub-tropical fruits are planted here. The quality of plantation and the dedication of the workers here contribute to the fruitful results, literally. You are most welcome to relish the taste of numerous tropical fruits.

Best time: The farm opens daily between 9 to 6 PM. A breezy day will be best to travel.

Price: 10 RM for adults and free for children.


Penang State Museum & Art Gallery
Penang Floating Mosque

The floating mosque, as it is commonly known as, derives its name from the fact that it is the first mosque to be built directly in the ocean water. Otherwise, it is known as Masjid Terapun Pulau Pinang. The mosque was constructed back in the year 2005.

Mengkuang Dam
The Mengkuang Dam is the second dam to be built in Penang after the Ayer Itam Dam. It was opened officially in the year 1985. The dam has been constructed with dimensions that make it the largest in Penang.

Location: The Mengkuang Dam is situated to the north east of Butterworth in Malaysia.

Highlights: The Mengkaung reservoir has ten times the capacity of the Air Itam dam. It has remained closed for the public since 2011 and is due to open again on 31st July 2016. Recreational activities are offered by the park near the dam area. The dam also acts as the venue for the annual Penang International Dragon Boat Festival which is a fiesta of colours and noise.

Best time: A visit to the dam is best enjoyed during a pleasant weather, when one can easily enjoy at the park.

Price: Entry is free to the Mengkuang Dam.

Kuan Yin Temple
The tranquil and lovely environs of Kuan Yin Temple attract many visitors all round the year who come here to discover a stress relieving aura. Being the oldest temple in Penang, it is the most magnificent Chinese style structure in Northern Malaysia.

Location: Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, George Town, 10200 George Town, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia


Highlights: The temple was built in the honour of Chinese goddess of Mercy, Kuan Yin, hence the name of the temple. It was brought to use not just for religious purposes but also for social gatherings initially. Typical Chinese architecture can be observed at the temple with carvings of dragons around stone pillars, ceramic sculptures of dragons that line up the roof ridges and high rising ceilings. The temple grounds also have two wells and are designed for use by the public.

Best Time: The temple is open between 8.30 AM and early evening.

Price: Entry is free.


Kapitan Keling Mosque
The Kapitan Keling Mosque was built back in the nineteenth century. It is a prominent Islamic historic centre and a part of the World Heritage site of George Town. It is also the first permanent Muslim institution that was established in the area.

Location: The mosque is situated at the corner of Lebuh Buckingham at the Pitt Street. It lies in the centre of the Tamil Muslim neighbourhood of the city.


 
Highlights: The terms ‘Keling’ and ‘Kapitan’ are representative of the Indian community and its people. The mosque has undergone several enlargement renovations. Geometric designs decorate the façade of the building and the interior aisles are formed of horseshoe arches which are crowned with King Edward’s plagues. The ochre yellow exteriors are in contrast to the white marble floors in the interior.

Best time: Being a mosque, it is open to all during its hours of operation.

Price: Entry is free.


Clan Jetties
A part of the Penang heritage trail, Clan jetties is a conglomeration of six jetties. It was one of the last Chinese settlements on the island which is still home to various Chinese clans. The name of every jetty has been kept after a Chinese clan. The place offers plenty of Kodak moments to visitors, especially the Chew jetty.

Location: The Clan jetties are located straight down from Lebuh Chulia at Pengkalan Weld Quay.

Highlights: Tourist friendly aura and stilt houses await the keen eye of travelers. There is a temple which is worth watching. None of the people here pay any taxes to this day as they contend that they are not living on land. The place has a rich history associated with its existence.

Best time: Be wary of the fact that people still live here. So travelling here during the evenings is best for clicking best shots.

Price: No entry fee.

Penang Botanic Garden
The Penang Botanic Gardens commonly popular as the ‘Waterfall Gardens’, is a public park which derives its epithet from cascading waterfalls situated near the park. Established in the year 1884, the original gardens came from an old quarry site.

Highlights: The bright green foliage of leaves on the tress and shaded spots falling in between the walking tracks under the blue sky create the ideal scenic view. A variety of trees and flowers meet the eye while the fresh stream of water flowing from the waterfall winds along the garden. Be wary of monkeys who are famous for snatching bags of the visitors.


 
Location: The Park is situated on Jalan Air Terjun in George Town, Malaysia.

Best time: To relish the tranquil environment of the park, you can visit anytime in the morning and evening if you want to avoid the heat.

Price: Entry to the park is free of cost.


Penang Bird Park
The Penang Bird Park is the largest bird sanctuary in Malaysia. This park was built in 1988 which is home to over 300 species of birds. One can easily spot tiny exotic sunbirds along with kingfishers in this sanctuary. There are gigantic eight-feet tall ostriches which are also present in this area. The birds are offered an amazing natural habitat which makes Penang Bird Park a perfect enclosure.

Location: Penang Bird Park is located in Seberang Jaya.



Highlights:
Tourists can spot mandarin ducks, storks, swans, pelicans and flamingos in Penang Bird Park. The whole area has an interesting setup which looks attractive. There are Chinese-style wooden bridges along with natural ponds. Penang Bird Park also has a fine range of plants ranging from lilies, lotus and palm trees.

Best Time: This bird sanctuary is open daily between 9am- 7pm.

Price: The ticket price for adults is RM 38. For children, the ticket price is RM 20.


Little India In Penang
Little India in Penang is basically an ethnic Indian enclave. There is an old Hindu temple called the Sri Mahamariamman Temple. One can easily sense a resemblance after entering the market streets. The tourists might feel that they have entered any market in Delhi, Mumbai or Chennai. The cuisine in Little India is quite famous. This region is also known for its cultural and commercial activities.

Location: Little India is situated at the centre of Penang Heritage zone. It covers an area around three streets namely, Lebuh Queen, Lebuh Chulia and Jalan Pasar.


Highlights: During the festival times like Christmas, Deepavali and Thaipusam, this area gets more vibrant and lively. The tourists can hop on a trishaw from Georgetown to reach little India. One can also rent a scooter or motorbike to cover different sections of this area.

Best Time: One can visit this area anytime.

Price: No Fee.


Snake Temple
This Snake Temple in Penang has an interesting history. It is said that, it is built to honour the famous Buddhist priest and healer Chor Soo Kong. The monk gave shelter to snakes after the temple was built and that is why it is called the Snake Temple. This structure is counted among Malaysia’s top tourist destinations which makes it so popular. One can spot a number of snakes in & around the temple which is a unique sight.

Location: The Snake Temple is situated in Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas which is 12 km away from Georgetown, Penang.

Highlights: The entrance of the temple has a big incense burner. The smoke produced by this burner acts as a tranquilizer which make the snakes go motionless. There is a 600-lb bell present in the main hall which is another striking element of the temple.

Best Time: 06:00- 19:00.

Price: Temple entry is Free.

Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram
Penang is famous for its temples and one such amazing landmark is Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram. It was built in 1845 and is among the list of top visited places in this region. Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram has a yellow-and-blue colour which makes this structure appear unique. Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram is also known as Wat Buppharam. The main attraction of this temple is the presence of a reclining Buddha image which is 108-ft long.

Location: Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram is situated in Georgetown, Penang, Malaysia.


 
Highlight: Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram is situated close to the Dharmmikarama Temple. The tourists would surely be amazed looking at the lovely sight of Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram due to the presence of mural-painted walls and gold pagodas. This Thai temple has sharp-eaved roofs which add on to the structures architecture.

Best Time: The temple is open for visitors daily between 10:00- 18:00.

Price: There is no fee to visit the temple.


Penang Khoo Khongsi
You can call Penang Khoo Khongsi as the largest clan temple in the country. This monument was built to mark the dominance of Chinese in Penang. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions. The architecture of this temple is mind blowing which has retained its beauty till date.

Location: Penang Khoo Khongsi is located in the oldest part of Georgetown, Penang.



Highlights: The temple has different sections which are decorated in interesting ways. There is an association building along with a traditional theatre which is attached to the temple. The main entrance of Penang Khoo Khongsi is very vibrant. The hallway consists of ancient monuments which are wonderfully carved.

Best Time: Penang Khoo Khongsi opens daily. The visitors and tourists can visit the temple between 9:00 am- 5:00 pm.

Price: The entry ticket for adults is RM 10 and the entry fee for children is RM 1.


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Penang Things To Do FAQs

What are some of the must do things in Penang?

Penang amongst the most toured city of Malaysia. It is a beautiful city and is filled with some outstanding tourist attractions. There are many things which one can do in Penang but the must do things here are:

  • Sightseeing- Penang is an amazing city to visit and it has some outstanding places which attract tourists from all over the country. Batu Ferringhi is a must for every person visiting Penang as they can do almost everything here. Clan Jetties is a connection to the rich past of Penang. The place is the perfect spot for fishing in the city.
  • Temples- Malaysia is a country which is very religious. This religiousness of theirs is reflected in the city of Penang as well. Penang houses a number of temples. The Arulmigu Karumariamman Temple is a temple which makes sure that the people who visit it find their spirituality. Kek Lok Si is another temple which is very famous here. It is not just a temple as it speaks volumes about the history of the city.
  • Beaches- Penang is a coastal city, therefore, there are a lot of beaches located in the city. People from all over the world come to Penang in order to enjoy the amazing beaches located in the city.

What all water sports activities can be done in Penang?

Malaysia is a country which is known for its beaches and since Penang is a coastal city, it houses a number of them. Due to its proximity to water, the city offers a number of water sports activities. In fact, water sports activities are very common in Penang and people visit the city in order to try them out. The major water sports activity available in Penang are:

  • Snorkeling- It is the most convenient activity as one does not have to depend on any external help for snorkeling.
  • Parasailing- It is by far, the most thrilling water activity because while carrying it out people feel as if they are flying.
  • Jet Skiing- The experience of jet skiing is unparalleled. One feels as if they are riding a bike on water.

Where can I learn to cook traditional Malay Cuisine in Penang?

Malay cuisine is something which people do not generally get anywhere except for Malaysia. But after trying the cuisine once, one is sure to be in love with it. The flavors of the cuisine are stunning and one would feel bad for people who have not eaten Malay cuisine ever. The people of Malaysia are very friendly. They do not mind sharing their skills of cooking. Penang is a city which has many places where one can learn to cook the Malay cuisine. The best places to learn the traditional Malay cuisine in Penang are:

  •    Nazlina’s cooking classes
  •    Jawi House Café Gallery
  •    Perut Rumah Nyonya Cuisine

Which are best places to go for Danai Spa in Penang?

Spas are a very common go-to place for the residents of Penang. The city has numerous spas built in the city. People in Penang go to spas in large numbers. These spas help one get relaxed. It is the perfect detox one needs before going back to their normal life. It helps one’s body get calm so that they can start their work again rejuvenated. Danai Spa is the best spa which is available in Penang and there are many places in the city where one can avail its services. The best places in Penang where one can go to Danai Spa are:

  •    Hotel Penang
  •    Eastin Hotel Penang
  •    Tanjung Bunga Park Penang

Which are must see beaches in Penang?

Malaysia is a country which has a long coastline and therefore the country is filled with beaches. Penang is also a coastal city, hence it houses quite a few of the beaches Malaysia has. Penang is known for the stunning beach it has. The white sand and the turquoise blue water are the perfect combination in a beach one could ask for. There are several beaches in Penang where one can just relax and do water sports activities. Few of the must-see beaches in Penang are:

  •    Batu Ferringhi Beach
  •    Tanjung Bungah
  •    Teluk Kami Beach
  •    Pulau Kendi
  •    Gertak Sanggul

Which are must visit attractions in Penang during sightseeing trip?

Penang is a lovely city with numerous places which attracts tourists. The must-visits in Penang during sightseeing trips are:

  • Kek Lok Si- Kek Lok Si is a very popular Buddhist temple located in Penang. It was built in the beginning of the 20th century. Tourists swarm the temple every year as it is the ideal place to visit to find one’s spirituality.
  • Penang National Park- The Penang National Park is home to a variety of species of animals. Many people visit the national park to experience the wildlife in Penang.
  • Upside Down Museum- The concept of the Upside Down Museum is very interesting as it is a museum of optical illusions. There are not many places in the world where one can find such a place.

Can I take Trishaw tours in Penang? Where can I find them?

Trishaw tours are the pride of Penang. It is the most convenient way to tour the city as one gets to understand the culture of the place as well while touring it. Trishaws are very famous in the city and tourists generally do opt for this tour only. One can find trishaws everywhere in the city, although the best places to tour on trishaw are City Hall, Fort Cornwallis, etc.

Where is the ESCAPE Theme Park in Penang? What are the different activities there?

ESCAPE Theme Park is the most exciting place to visit in Penang as people can do several dangerous and exciting activities here. ESCAPE Theme Park is located in Jalan Teluk Bahang. The theme park has many rides and every ride are better than the other. The most famous ride of the ESCAPE Theme Park is the slide. There are many more rides in the park like the 50 m platform jump, rope balancing, and the likes.

Where is The Orang Utan Island? What are the timings and cost?

Penang is a city which has been blessed by some outstanding tourist spots. Orang Utan Island is one of them. The island receives thousands of tourists every year and is a major tourist attraction. The highlight of visiting the island is its journey. One has to reach the island by boat. Orang Utan Island is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm and it costs approximately $8 to reach the island.

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Penang Things To Do Reviews

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Mawaddah
Reviewed: 09 Sep 2022
5.0/5
Good
Mawaddah
Mawaddah
Mawaddah
Mawaddah
Mawaddah
Mawaddah
(2+)View All
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Evelin Roy
Reviewed: 02 Dec 2023
5.0/5
Thrillophilia made our visit to The Habitat Penang incredibly smooth. The hassle-free entry with the purchased tickets added immense convenience to our experience. Being in close proximity to nature and witnessing the stunning walkway views made the trip unforgettable. Kudos to Thrillophilia for fa... Read More
Evelin Roy
Evelin Roy
Evelin Roy
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Elizabeth Wong
Reviewed: 03 Aug 2023
5.0/5
It was such a fun experience. Great little getaway and lots to learn!
Elizabeth Wong
Elizabeth Wong
Elizabeth Wong
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Sazlin Sabri
Reviewed: 28 Dec 2023
5.0/5
I thought the curation of the content was really good especially the indoor section. Worth 2 hours of experience. Recommended.
Sazlin Sabri
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Sherry Valarie
Reviewed: 01 Oct 2022
5.0/5
The place was so good. But remember to bring more coins to buy souvenir as it was made from real butterfly that has been preserved.
Sherry Valarie
Sherry Valarie
Sherry Valarie
Sherry Valarie
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Tang Wai Chong
Reviewed: 24 Dec 2023
5.0/5
Good place, air freshly
Tang Wai Chong

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