Highlights
George Town
Colourful, multicultural and utterly charming, George Town is the capital of Penang. Located within the Malacca Strait and once an important trading hub, the historical city is known for its eclectic collection of British colonial buildings, ornate mosques and Chinese shophouses. Quaintly frozen in time, the old town is a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to striking street art, exceptional local eateries and fascinating architecture. Highlights include the Blue Mansion on Leith Street, Kapitan Keling Mosque and Chinatown, while the historic city can be explored on several heritage trails.
Cuisine
Often cited as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang offers some of the best cuisine in southeast Asia. From sizzling street food to locally-run eateries, expect freshly prepared and regionally-sourced Penang staples with sensational flavours. Spicy laksa soup, wok-fried noodles and flavoursome curries are just some of the delights on offer.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Nestled on lush hillside terraces just outside of George Town, colourful Kek Lok Si is Malaysia’s largest Buddhist temple and the cornerstone of the Malay-Chinese community. A fair few steps and furnicular will take you up to the 36 metre-high statue of Kuan Yin, the goddess of Mercy, as well as the Ban Po Thar pagoda, completed in 1927 and boasting panoramas of lush forest with George Town in the distance.
Penang National Park
A great day trip from George Town, Penang National Park comprises lush jungle and stunning sandy beaches, offering plenty of opportunity to meet the local wildlife and birdlife. Explore on foot or by boat, soaking up views of your stunning surroundings.