Penang Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Malaysia. Its vast territory has clean beaches, valuable historical monuments, and developed infrastructure. Our compatriots do not need a visa to Penang. This is another reason why tourists choose Malaysian resorts, including the island of Penang.
Here is the full list of things to do in Penang island in Malaysia; besides that you’ll find useful information on how to get there and best time to visit.
Book your Georgetown half day tour here .
The geographical position of the island of Penang and major cities
Penang (or Penang) on the world map is located in the region of the northwestern shores of the Malay Peninsula. The island is a separate state of Malaysia. It is washed by the waters of the Andaman Sea. If you look at the map of Penang, you can see that it is connected to the mainland by an artificial bridge. The coastal part of the Malay Peninsula, called Seberang Perai, is characterized by a similar climate and natural conditions.
Most of the population of the island is represented by the Chinese. Malays and Indians also live on its territory. The main city of Penang and its capital is George Town . It is there that most of the historical sights are located. The city is included in the UNESCO list. There are also many houses and shops that were built before the Second World War and miraculously survived.
Penang has a major port that acts as a transport hub. It connects three countries – Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.
How to get there
To get to Penang, you need to take a ferry departing from the small town of Butterwurh. Another option is ground transportation. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge, so you can get there by bus or taxi. There are regular flights from Kuala Lumpur to Penang.
Climatic conditions
As for the weather, on the island of Penang, as well as throughout the country, seasonal climate changes are not particularly pronounced. All year long, the Penang resorts maintain a comfortable temperature from + 24 ° C to +32 ° C. The water temperature usually ranges from + 26 ° C to +28 ° C.
The best time to visit Penang is between December and February. This is the high season, so be prepared for high prices and crowded hotels. In June-August, you can also go on vacation, there is rainfall, but not so plentiful. March-May is a rainy season, which has its advantages – there are few tourists. You can still swim, but the cost of the tour is usually a little cheaper. September-November is a time of intense precipitation, heat and high humidity. It is better to refuse a trip to Penang Island during this period.
Where to stay in Penang
If you want something other than a beach holiday, then you should stay in the capital of the island – Georgetown. Houses that are cultural heritage attract tourists from all over the world. Some of these houses have been turned into cozy boutique hotels.
However, the rest of the island, in addition to Georgetown, is well developed. Penang is lively. Here, almost everywhere there are many hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, all kinds of entertainment venues. Most of the hotels are located in the northern region, in the resort of Batu Ferringhi. This area is also known among travelers for a large number of cafes where you can enjoy traditional Malaysian food, shops, shops, bazaars. And, of course, the best beaches in Penang .
Tanjung Bungah is another place to stay for beach lovers and those who definitely need water activities. This area is located between George town and Batu Ferringhi in the northern part of the island. This place is calmer than Batu Ferringhi.
Penang International Airport is located in Bayan Lepas. It is located in the southern part of the island, away from its capital and two other cities located in the northern part. It is there that a large number of entertainments are located, including: the Temple of Serpents, the Museum of War and the aquarium.
Popular hotels in Penang are Eastern & Oriental Hotel, Evergreen Laurel Hotel Penang, Noordin Mews, The Prestige Hotel. Prices vary depending on the class of rooms, and range from 150-300 dollars per day.
Main Attractions
What to visit in Penang when you get a little tired of a relaxed beach holiday and want new experiences? First of all, these are all kinds of sanctuaries:
- Temple of the Serpent. There are indeed reptiles inside it. However, they are not dangerous because they are under the influence of incense.
- Kek Lok Si – or, as it is also called the “Temple of 10,000 Buddhas.”
- Wat Chayamangkalaram is home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in the world.
- St. George’s Church (located in George town).
- Sri Marimman is a cultural monument famous for its large number of statues of deities.
You can also go on an excursion to the Butterfly Park, where there are more than 3,000 butterflies. Or to the Bird Park, inhabited by 400 species of birds and planted with tropical flowers of incredible beauty. Prices for the tour fluctuate in the range of approximately 25-30 dollars.
Another famous attraction in Penang is a resort called “Pinang Hill”. It is located in a hilly area, at a distance of 6 km from George town.
Fans of nature and active walks can visit the National Park of the island. After walking 3 km along the trail leading into the jungle, you can stop at Pantai Kerachut beach, considered one of the cleanest and most beautiful on the entire island.
What to choose – Langkawi or Penang?
Often travelers have a choice between these two islands. Both of them are located not so far from each other. Almost the same distance from Kuala Lumpur. The weather conditions are not particularly different either. However, there is still a difference. Penang is considered more developed in terms of infrastructure; as for Langkawi, the island is often compared to one large village.
But there are many more beaches in Langkawi . Coastal waters are cleaner there; however, there are not so many civilized establishments. In Penang, in addition to a beach holiday, there is the possibility of shopping, entertainment, and all kinds of excursions.
