Malaysia’s state Penang, which is located on a small strip of land along the peninsula and an island of a large size, is known for its delicious street food. There is a lot of beautiful architecture, many historic and religious sites, natural attractions, and beaches.

It can be difficult to decide where to go each day due to the state’s sprawling nature. It’s not worth wasting time traveling between hotspots, only to find out that there are other cool spots nearby.

Our team of experts has done extensive research to ensure that you do not miss any Penang highlights. This will allow you to relax and enjoy your trip more. These are the top places in Penang you should add to your itinerary to ensure a memorable experience.

Fort Cornwallis – Penang’s most iconic historical site!

Built on the site of an older wooden fort, the star-shaped Fort Cornwallis was constructed in the 1800s. The British East India Company built it to protect the island. However, no attacks were made against it. The fort is listed today as an Ancient Monument and Historic Site. It offers spectacular views of the ocean. The grounds are still home to many old cannons, and you will find various buildings and displays within the park’s walls.

Enjoy the stunning views as you walk around the outer walls of the fortress. You will find the statue of Captain Francis Light at the entrance, as well as the historic cannons that were meant to protect the island. You should not miss the Seri Rambai cannon. Locals consider this artillery a symbol for fertility and will likely see offerings being placed in front. Explore old cells, storage rooms and barracks to learn more about the fort’s history. The oldest chapel is located in Penang. You can also see the mast-like lighthouse.

Escape Theme Park – A great place to visit Penang with children!

Escape Theme Park offers a unique combination of a water park and an adventure park in a stunning natural setting. It doesn’t matter if you are a backpacker, a family vacationer or a wanderlust. This Penang attraction is perfect for all travelers. You can find thrilling activities to increase your pulse rate and gentler activities for children. There are also many slides, chutes, rapids and pools in the water park. This is a great place to get away from your daily routine and have some fun. Some attractions require that children be accompanied by an adult.

Aerobat allows you to fly through the sky like an acrobat. You can also bounce on Air Bag and climb Gecko Tower. Coco Climb lets you race to the top of the tree. Slingshot will send your adrenaline pumping as you glide through the jungle on Jungle Swinger and Flying Lemur ziplines. Monkey School teaches the basics of rope courses while you tackle the many challenges in Monkey Business.

Discover more about the underwater world of AK Discovery. Take the plunge on Atan’s Jump, dive into the Dunk Tank, glide along the Lazy river, laugh on the Family Twister and bob around in the Wave Ball wave pool. Then, enter the Speed Racer to win.

Pinang Peranakan Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Penang

Pinang Peranakan House tells the story about the area’s Peranakan (Straits Chinese), past. Built in 1890s by a wealthy Chinese businessman it was once home. It has been restored to its former glory. The museum contains many antiques and other items from the Peranakan Community. It is so well-curated that the museum’s vast collection has been featured on numerous TV shows.

The handsome green building is beautiful from the outside. Note the mix of European, Chinese, and Malaysian elements. Peranakans retained their customs, while also adapting those from the Straits and colonial influences later on. This led to a unique way and culture. The museum has many rooms and courtyards filled with wonderful details and objects.

There will be exquisitely carved wood, ceramic tiles for the floor, room screens and over 1,000 beautiful antiques. The shrine adjacent houses the statue of the former owner of the mansion.

Snake Temple – Penang’s most unique place to visit!

Penang’s Snake Temple was built in the 1800s to honor Chor Soo Kong, a Chinese Buddhist monk. His kindness was well-known, especially his caring for the sick and helping snakes. According to local legend, the temple was constructed when pit vipers first appeared. Many snakes can be found in the temple today. The snakes are believed to be harmless by incense smoke, but they have been de-venomed to be safe!

You can wander around the temple complex admiring the many snakes that call this religious place home. You will see snakes hanging from branches and draped around the shrines. You’ll find pit vipers most of the time, but you might also see other species. You can learn more about these slithery, often misunderstood animals by visiting the breeding center. The temple’s beautiful details are also available for your enjoyment.

Penang National Park: A stunning and scenic spot to visit in Penang

Penang National Park is small at only 2997 acres (1.213 hectares). It covers land and sea and has a diverse terrain. The park has many habitats that aren’t found anywhere else in the country, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the country. The national park is also home to great views and historical and archeological elements.

You will find mangroves, long beaches, and wildlife-rich forest areas. Many species of animals call the park home, including turtles and otters, mice deer, wild boar and many bird species. You will find delicate orchids, unusual pitcher plants, bonsai and other herbs.

Enjoy the stunning views and relax on the sandy beaches of beautiful beaches such as Pasir Pandak and Teluk Kerachut. The unusual meromictic lake is a place where the water doesn’t mix and all the colours can be clearly seen. Follow the two nature trails to spot different creatures and plants. Wear sensible shoes!

The canopy walkway, which is 15 metres high (49 feet high) gives you a bird’s-eye view of the beaches and forests. Other places of interest in the park include Muka Head Lighthouse or the old Hokkien Cemetery. You’ll find many nice spots to have a picnic and take a dip in the natural swimming pools. You can camp in the national park if you feel adventurous.

Batu Feringghi is a great place to visit Penang if your budget allows!

Batu Feringghi is a popular destination for Malaysia backpackers. It boasts beautiful views and a long sandy beach. The area was once a peaceful village with a rich history. Today, it is home to many accommodations, restaurants and shops. Batu Feringghi is a great place to enjoy the sunset. There are many bars and restaurants close by. You can spend money, but you don’t have to pay a single Ringgit to enjoy the beach.

Relax on the soft sands to sunbathe and take in the stunning views of the horizon as the emerald waters meet the sky. You can witness the beautiful sunset over the ocean if you stay until the end of the day. While the water isn’t ideal for swimming, there are many water-based activities you can do, such as parasailing, riding on banana boat, jet skiing and kayaking. Wet World Wild is a fun place for both adults and children, thanks to its many inflatables. The lively night market offers a variety of goods, as well as street food.

Penang Batik Factory is a must-see in Penang

The Penang Batik Factory was established in 1973. It showcases the talents that go into creating beautiful textile art. The small cottage industry allows artisans to make a living and tourists can view the process of making pieces. This makes it easier for them to appreciate items more than just looking at them in a showroom. Each artist is unique. There are three sections to the factory: a boutique and an art gallery. You are not required to purchase anything and there are no free tours.

You can see traditional batik artists in action at the workshop. Watch artisans create patterns and colour in the designs. These items are unusual in that they feature patterns on both sides of fabric. You can see a variety of batik artworks in varying sizes and colours at the gallery. You might even want to make a unique purchase to enhance your home. You may be more interested in batik clothing. The boutique has a variety of garments for children, men, and women.

Ghost Museum – Penang’s most unusual place!

Penang’s Ghost Museum offers information about ghosts from different countries and cultures. Although the displays and props are not the best, they add to the fun. You will find information and ghostly themes in several rooms. It is located in a historic building which adds to its eerie atmosphere.

The Ghost Museum is a place where you can explore the various sections. You will see models of ghosts, learn about myths, and get to know more about the supernatural. The first section is dedicated the Malay ghosts. It features pictures of Orang Minyak and Toyl, Pontianak and Pocong (AKA Indonesian Mummy) and Hantu Pisang. Hantu Pisang is believed to live in banana trees and steal people’s souls.

Continue on through the sections that are dedicated to Japanese, Egyptian, Chinese and Japanese ghouls. You can also experience Halloween at any season and visit the realm of vampires. You can take photos throughout the museum using props or even costumes that you can make.

Dhammikarama Burmese Temple is a great place to visit in Penang, if you love architecture

Dhammikarama Burmese Temple, which was established in the early 1800s is Penang’s oldest Burmese temple. The temple has strong connections to women because it was established on land donated from a wealthy lady. There are also several female trustees. The temple has been expanded and modified over the years. It was originally constructed of wood, but later rebuilt with stronger materials. The temple is filled with typical Burmese features. Expert Burmese artisans were hired to verify authenticity and accuracy. It also functions as a monastery with Buddhist monks residing there.

The red and gold gateway is adorned with large elephant statues, traditional Burmese designs, and the umbrella-shaped spire. The oldest part of the complex is the stupa. It was consecrated in 1805.

You can rest under the Bodhi tree and see the monk’s home from outside. Also, you can view the Buddha statues in different positions and the detailed murals. You will also find interesting statues depicting mythical creatures, such as the garuda and chinthe. You can enjoy the serene atmosphere and witness local devotees coming here to pray for blessings.

The Chulia Street Night Market is a must-see for all foodies!

The best place in Penang to find delicious street food is Chulia Street Night Market. This is a great spot in a city known for its amazing street food scene. There are many small, casual restaurants as well as hawker stalls that can be booked. You can also eat on the streets at basic tables and chairs. The country’s diverse heritage is evident in the dishes, which include Malay, Chinese and Indian cuisines, as well as local fusion food. The prices are also reasonable.

You can stroll along the vibrant Chulia Street Night Market, where you will find vendors cooking a variety of dishes right on the spot. The smells and sounds of cooking are sure to tempt your senses.

This is the perfect place to get your hands dirty in food photography. It’s also an excellent place to enjoy delicious street food. Make sure you’re hungry! You can try dishes such as wanton mee and assam laksa. You can wash it all down with a glass of fresh fruit juice or sweetened tea.

Penang Jewish Cemetery – A lovely, non-touristy spot to visit in Penang

The quiet Jewish Cemetery, surrounded by high walls is one of Penang’s last vestiges of Penang’s Jewish community. Even the synagogue that was once there closed in the 1970s. People who wish to enter the cemetery can knock on the gates and the custodian will let them in.

According to some sources, Penang’s last Jew died in 2011. His grave is the oldest in the lonely cemetery. This would have ended Penang’s Jewish community. The evidence of a once substantial number of Jews living in Penang is evident by the neat rows of graves. This interesting cemetery receives very few visitors.

As you pass the rows of gravestones, chat with the cemetery keeper to learn more about Penang’s Jewish past. You can pay your respects to the dead and learn about the lost community. The oldest grave, dating back to 1835 and the newest, are both on display in the cemetery.

The memorials are in typical Middle Eastern styles and most of the inscriptions in Hebrew. It will be a strange feeling to step away from the tourist trail and discover new aspects of Penang’s history.

Kapitan Keling Mosque is one of Penang’s most sacred places.

The beautiful Kapitan Keling Mosque is located in the heart of George Town. It was built by the first Indian Muslim immigrants to Penang in the early 19 ^th century. It was designed in Indo-Moorish and has Gothic and Roman elements. The pale building is topped by a golden dome and a minaret. You will find typical Islamic details like calligraphy of passages in the Islamic holy book (the Quran), floral imagery and geometric patterns as well as colourful stained glass.

The muezzin calling the faithful will call out the prayer lilt from the minaret five times a day. The main building is reached by following the long, winding path, passing graceful archways along the way. You will find beautiful chandeliers, traditional designs and ornate prayer rugs on the marble floor of the prayer hall. If you’re not of the Muslim faith, you will need permission to enter the mosque.

 

Butterworth – This is a great place to spend a day in Penang.

Although Penang is often associated with George Town and the Island, there are many other attractions in the state’s mainland regions. Butterworth, the capital of mainland Penang, has many attractions and activities that will keep you entertained for a day. Butterworth has some of the best Airbnb’s in Penang, so if you are looking for a place to stay in Malaysia to discover Penang and avoid the tourist crowds, this is the perfect choice. It’s great for immersion in local culture and the crowds are much smaller than on the island. There are beautiful temples and lively markets in the area.

You can take a stroll along the beach, or you can relax by the water at hotspots such as Pantai Bersih or Bagan Ajam. The Taoist temple for the Nine Emperor Gods is one of the most important places of worship in the town. Take pictures of the vibrant colors, large pagodas, statues representing Chinese deities and elaborate decorative touches.

The lavish Sri Maha Mariamman Devasthanam Indian Temple allows you to experience Indian culture. Butterworth Bird Park is an ideal place to take the family on a family trip. It’s home to many species of avian birds from around the world. Apollo Market is a large, lively place for street food, fresh produce and other knickknacks.

Upside Down Museum is a must-see in Penang

Penang’s Upside Down Museum, which is located in Penang, is a cool museum that shows everything upside down. You can really feel like you are walking on the ceiling like Spiderman, with common furniture and other items attached to the tops of each room. This place is not just for typical house rooms. It also has a cafe, topsy turvy market and other interesting features. It’s a great place to take photos and is a fun and unusual place for children and adults.

You can walk through the bedroom, living room, kitchen and bathroom upside down to take some amazing pictures. Staff members are available to help you create the most stunning and realistic-looking photos.

You can see everything from the cupboards to the desks and oven up there, as well as the kitchen sink and oven. Explore the market and pretend you are walking down the stairs with your hands. Play the piano while hovering above it. Have a blast!

Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the most beautiful places in Penang

Perched high on a hill, the large and intricate Buddhist temple of Kek Lok Si overlooks the surrounding area is the impressive and elaborate Kek Lok Si. This complex is the largest Buddhist temple in the country and attracts mostly devout Buddhists who wish to make merit, worship and pay respects. Architecture and religious practices are representative of different branches within Buddhism.

Built using donations from wealthy Chinese businessmen in the 1890s, the temple is ornate and has seen many remarkable additions throughout the years. The important temple is spread over three zones. It boasts beautiful architecture, stunning statues, magnificent gardens, and spectacular views.

The seven-storey pagoda is a magnificent structure. It features thousands of Buddha statues. The 36-metre tall (120-foot) bronze statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy (Blood of Mercy), will impress you. Find your Chinese zodiac birth pet among the 12 statues.

Enjoy the beautiful gardens as you stroll through them. You can watch turtles and fish in the ponds. Spend some time in silence in one of the prayer rooms, or see devotees perform various religious rituals. Finally, you can stop by the restaurant for a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal.

Guar Petai is a must-see in Penang.

Guar Petai, an abandoned water-filled quarry, is located in a rural village on the mainland of Penang. The enchanting and captivating vistas include emerald-green waters, lush greenery, and reddish rust-coloured sandy rocks. It is a natural wonder, and it is often quite quiet. It is a great spot to capture romantic moments and photos. This picturesque spot is free to explore.

You can climb to the top of the quarry to take in the stunning views. Admire the contrast colours and the way the sun glints against the striking green waters. Enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the area by taking many beautiful photos. Explore the area for more stunning views and photography angles.

 

Design Village Penang – A great place in Penang if you love to shop!

Design Village Penang is not only the largest mall in Penang, but also one of the most popular outlet shopping centers in the country. There are around 150 shops selling a wide range of goods. You’re sure to find something you want here. This open-concept retail center is located in stunning tropical gardens. The greenery is shaded and there are many cafes and restaurants to suit different tastes.

The main reason you visit Design Village Penang, is to shop! Shop at Guess, Coach and Timberland as well as Puma and Gap. You can also shop for home goods, beauty products, clothing, shoes, and sportswear in shops such as Pierre Cardin and Timberland. As you walk through the beautiful gardens, take a break to enjoy a meal at one of the excellent restaurants.

Clan Jetties: One of the best places in Penang to visit for free

Six Clan Jetties in Penang are an old water village that was built by Chinese groups. The wooden jetties were originally a wood yard. Later, it was used to load and unload boats. Workers began building small huts on the wooden jetties. These basic stilted properties became more common, creating small villages above the water.

Each jetty was associated to a dominant Chinese clan. Several clans still call these jetties home today, including the Chew Tan, Yeoh and Lee as well as a mixed clan (Snaeh) jetty. There were many more jetties along the waterfront in the past. Traditional ways of living still prevail at these jetties.

Begin with a visit at the Chew Clan Jetty. Then, take a stroll along the planks passing homes and shops. You can inhale the aromas of incense being burned at small shrines located outside homes and call into the small temple which sits above the water. You will be able to see a different way life and enjoy the simple, but functional wooden structures.

You can see small boats bob on the waves, and take in the beautiful sunset views. Visit the other Clan Jetties in the area if you’d like to see more of village life. Respectful behavior, low noise, and courteous photography are important because these are private homes where people live and do their daily business.

Dark Mansion – A cool place to visit in Penang with your friends!

Penang’s darkest museum, the Dark Mansion, is one of its most unique. Since 2016, it is the only 3D glow in the dark museum in the country. The museum uses science and technology to create arty experiences. It has 3D paintings that make it appear like you are in different scenes, as well as a glowing effect. To see how the image changes, visitors can view it in both normal lighting and dark with special lighting. You’ll be able to take many incredible photos and it’s a lot of fun.

While you are immersed in different scenes, your friends (or a member of staff) will take plenty of photos. Play with various props and witness the transformation of art in different lighting conditions. Highlights include the amazing glow-in-the dark forest with many creatures, stunning scenes from the night sky and a cool radiant bridge.

You can travel back in time and feel a sense of nostalgia as your pass through the time tunnel. Also, take a look at Fire and Water by Edgar Muller, which is the largest anamorphic glow in-the-dark image anywhere in the world.

Sri Mahamariamman Temple is a great place to visit in Penang, if you’re traveling alone.

Malaysia is known for its melting pot of cultures. This is one of many great reasons to visit Malaysia . We’re temple hunting, so bring your shoulder cover!

The current temple building at Penang’s Sri Mahamariamman Temple, which was originally built as a simple shrine in the 1800s, was completed in 1833. It was built by Tamil Indian migrants and is the oldest Hindu temple of the state. It is a stunning place to enjoy religious art and architectural beauty. It is a peaceful place where devotees come to pray and perform religious rituals every day.

Before entering the temple grounds, dress modestly and take off your shoes. The vibrant gopurum (entrance Tower) is a stunning sight. It features intricate carvings of Hindu deities and animals as well as symbols and flowers. It stands at nearly 24m (78ft) high and has four tiers. It is supposed to represent Mount Meru which, according to Hindu mythology, is the mountain that supports all the heavens.

Many pigeons have made their home in the tower, as well. Admire the intricate details of the complex, and the large statue inside the main building. Enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and stop by the Indian restaurants and shops nearby.

 

Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is a must-see place in Penang

Penang State Museum and Art Gallery are housed in a stunning architectural gem that was once the Penang Free School. It was converted to a museum in 1960. It houses both an impressive art gallery as well as an informative museum that has many artifacts and displays. There are permanent and changing collections, as well as state and national treasures. Anyone who is interested in learning more about the region’s history and culture should visit it.

You should take the time to look at the many collections in museums. These include furniture, traditional clothing, weapons, old transport methods, tools, silverware, jewellery, and ceramics. It is particularly interesting to see the hand-written Quran.

You can find out more about Penang’s multicultural, multi-racial and multi-cultural communities. Eight paintings by Captain Robert Smith are among the treasures in the gallery. There are also many other pieces. You can travel back in time and see black-and-white photographs of Penang from the past. A selection of merchandise is also available.

St. Anne’s Church is a peaceful place to visit in Penang

St. Anne’s Church, located in Bukit Mertajam, Penang’s mainland peninsula is a less-visited place with a long history. It is also steeped in religious importance. The annual ten-day Feast of St. Anne festivities are vibrant and draw devotees from all over the country, but the church is peaceful and serene at other times of year.

The original chapel was constructed in 1846. A later church, now known as the Shrine of St. Anne, was constructed in 1888. Modern juxtaposition is the nearby church, which was built in 2002. It is one of the largest Christian churches in the country and features traditional Malay designs. Nearby are megaliths from ancient times. Mass is an active place of worship. It can be held in many languages, depending on the day.

Enjoy quiet reflections and contemplation at the St. Anne’s Shrine. Also, take a moment to admire the stained glass above the altar. The large statue of St. Anne (Mary’s mother) standing in front of the newer church with the Virgin Mary as her child, the Catholic Stations of the Cross and the Cherok Tokun relics. The Cherok Tokun relics, which are rock inscriptions that were placed on top of a granite megalith, can be found within the sanctuary’s grounds. Relax in the peaceful atmosphere and take in the spiritual atmosphere.

Upper Penang Road – A great place to visit in Penang at night

Upper Penang Road is located in George Town and is the epicenter of Penang’s nightlife scene. There are many shops on the street to shop in during the day. The monthly Little Penang Street Market is also held there. The market is held every Sunday. Stalls sell everything, from clothing and crafts to food and souvenirs. Live entertainment adds to the carnival atmosphere.

Modern buildings are mixed with heritage buildings. The street is alive at night with tourists and locals. There are many places to eat dinner before you start your night on the tiles. There are street food stalls and sit-down restaurants. Nightclubs and bars keep people entertained until the early hours. If you’re looking to make Penang your home, there are many of the best hostels in this area.

You can walk along the historic street during the day to admire the many architectural styles as well as the shops and boutiques. You can enjoy a romantic dinner at the Three Sixty Revolving Restaurant while you take in the breathtaking views. Or, you can eat street food and learn about local specialties.

Mix with party-loving people in vibrant bars, and perhaps hit up a Karaoke joint to belt out your favourite songs. You can sit on the sidewalk and enjoy the view of the world as it passes by, or visit a roadside bar. You can hop between bars and clubs to show off your moves and dance on the dancefloor to the beat of the music.