House of travel Singapore, Malaysia & Borneo Brochure 2017 | Page 21

Penang
Batu Ferringhi Beach
Highlights worth seeing along the way
Explore Penang
T his turtle shaped island is located 8 kilometres west of Mainland
Malaysia and accessible by road over two bridges, ferry or plane. Often
referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Orient’, Penang is well known for its easy
going kampungs (villages), sandy beaches, sightseeing and food.
Due to the diverse culture, foodies are spoilt for choice here, as each
culture with their unique cooking styles have dared to create dishes
that are a blend of tastes and spices. Famed throughout the country for
specialties such as Laksa and Nasi Kandar which are found everywhere
around the island. Venture out at night in search of a restaurant full of
Penang locals, because where there’s locals, there’s good food. For the
best Char Kway Teow (a popular noodle dish) take a walk along Lorong
Selamat in Georgetown.
One of the main attractions of Penang are the beaches. Batu Ferringhi
along the north of the island, is by far the best and most visited beach
area. With plenty of luxury hotels and restaurants, it’s a favourite with
both locals and visitors. For more secluded, unspoilt beaches head to the
north-western coast. Here you’ll find Monkey Beach, Muka Head, Pantai
Kerachut and Teluk Kampi which are all part of the Penang National
Park.
Georgetown is the second largest city in Malaysia and a favourite spot for
visitors. Featuring one of the largest collections of 19th and early 20th
century churches, temples, mosques and colonial buildings you can see
why it’s classed as a UNESCO World Heritage-site. Visit between June to
July for the Georgetown Festival and you’ll be treated to a month long
celebration featuring art, music, dance, opera and film.
Penang Hawker Food – As Penang is the food capital of Malaysia, visit
Gurney Drive. It’s the best of Penang on a plate! Hawkers fire up their
woks and dish out street food for a king. The popular seafront promenade
exemplifies the colours and atmosphere of Penang – fun, lively and
vibrant.
Penang Hill – Take a short ride up the funicular or a 2-3 hour hike, where
you’ll be spoilt with a fantastic view of Georgetown and the Penang Bridge
at the summit. Visit at night time for the best views of Georgetown lit up.
Kek Lok Si Temple – The largest Buddhist Temple in Malaysia, located
hillside and dating back to the early 20th century. Reach the top by a
mini-funicular train where you’ll be greeted by a giant statue of Kuan Yin,
the Goddess of Mercy. Over Chinese New Year the temple is covered with
hundreds of lanterns which makes for an even more spectacular photo.
Shopping – On Gurney Drive you’ll find an array of hawker stalls to
choose from in the evening as well as Gurney Plaza, featuring a good
selection of international brands.
The Street of Harmony – A famous street featuring many different
places of worship including Masjid Kapitan Keling Mosque, Kuan Yin
and Sri Mahamariamman Temples, St George’s Church, Cathedral of
Assumption and Khoo Kongsi.
Snake Temple – Famous for its pit vipers living within the temple
grounds. If you’re brave enough you can even touch them. Legend has it
that a healer gave shelter to the snakes of the jungle and once the temple
was complete the snakes appeared on their own accord.
Get around by Trishaw – Hire one of these three wheeled, human
powered vehicles and hear the history of this island from a local, it’s like
your own private city tour. Make sure you negotiate the fare beforehand.
Penang Museum & Art Gallery – Built in 1821 and previously called the
Penang Free School. Now showcasing old photographs, maps, historical
relics and paintings of early Penang. A great insight to Penang’s history.
Water sports – Hit Batu Ferringhi for water activities such as banana boat
riding, jet ski, parasailing and catamaran sailing to name a few.
© Malaysia Tourism Board
Kek Lok Si Temple
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