An island rich in cultural heritage, Penang has a number of a Chinese temple, museums, parks, preserved forests, ruins and beautiful beaches which makes it worth to have a visit here. And not to forget the very famous street food here is one of the prior reasons for me to visit this place again and again (link to street food). On the northeastern part of the island is George Town which is the capital city of the state of Penang and recognized as the heritage site by UNESCO in 2008. These are my personal favorite spots in Penang to visit with your family or friends.
1.Penang Bridge:
Penang Bridge is a famous landmark of the country, it is the longest bridge in Asia and the third-longest in the world. The international marathon takes place here every year and it has been attracting more marathoners from all parts of the world.
2. Kek Lok Si Temple:
Kek Lok Si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia and was built over the period from 1890-1930. And one of the most attractive facts about the temple is the graffiti on the walls. Chinese culture is the most prominent here. The temple is at its best during the Chinese new year, the place is all decked up with red lanterns, flowers, candles, paper packets, and colorful lights. Since this temple is built at the foot of Air Itam mountain, it offers a lovely scenic view.
3. Wat Chayamangkalaram (Sleeping Buddha):
Wat Chayamangkalaram is situated on the Burma Road. The most fascinating feature is the reclining Buddha which is gold plated and covers a length of thirty-three meters. It represents the Buddha’s attainment of Nirvana. The temple is built in 1845 on a five-acre land and was given by Queen Victoria to the Thai community.
4. Snake temple:
The snake temple is also known as Hock Kin Keong or Cheng Hoon Giam is situated in Beyan lepas was built for the worship of the deity Chor Soo Kong. He was a Buddhist monk who lived around a thousand years ago in China. In 1850 a monk arrived from China bearing a statue of Chor Soo Kong to build a temple. After the completion of the temple, snakes from the surrounding jungle started taking shelter at the temple and then soon it is called Snake Temple.
5.Street Art in George Town:
A new face has been given to some of the oldest buildings in George Town. Tourist gets attracted to this place to click some amazing clicks for their Instagram or blogs. The funny and creative graffiti art is done by a young Lithuanian artist named Ernest Zacharevic.
6.Penang Hill:
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle and the tropical heat of the city, then Penang Hill is calling you. It is situated at an altitude of 830 meters above sea level. Enjoy a spectacular view of the city from the state’s foremost hill resort and experience the lush greenery for which this hill is quite famous for. The Penang Hill train or Penang Hill Funicular Railway is a rail service that helps people to travel to the top of Penang Hill.
7. Batu Ferringi:
It is a seaside town that is quite popular for luxurious resorts, hotels, and seafood restaurants. A lot of tourists can be seen at almost all the time of the year. The sandy beaches and water sports are the main attractions here. There are other small islands nearby the island where you can go for island hopping. I would suggest visiting this island in the evening time to witness the best sunset view.
8.Ferringi Night Market:
Ferringi Night Market (Pasar malam) is the market that sits in the evening from 7 pm till 10 pm and during the weekend it’s open till 11 pm. There are lots of shops selling fake branded products, cheap clothing, and street food. There is something for everyone visiting here.
9. Chulia Street:
Chulia Street is a hotspot for the street foodies or for those who love exploring street food. You can find a good amount of crowds visiting this place every day. There is an aroma of food spread to a long lane. There are lots of cafes and party pubs here as well.
