Penang, Malaysia
Introduction
Penang is among the top tourist destinations that you can visit in Malaysia. Penang is located on an island and it is surrounded by sparkling waters and beaches that you can explore. The island has a laid-back island feel and it is popularly known for its food. The island is considered a culinary paradise for food lovers in the country. There is a wide range of fascinating activities that you can try out in the city from exploring its colonial history, historic clan house, national park, UNESCO listed World Heritage sites, and so on. Some of the best things to do in Penang are listed below.
Top things to do in Penang
Explore the Tropical Spice Garden
This garden is among the highlights of the Penang and can be found on Jalan Teluk Bahang. The garden houses all the stunning herbs and spices that are indigenous to Malaysia and it is situated on the site that was once used for rubber plantation. The garden is a place not to miss if you are a nature lover and you are interested in Malay flora and fauna. You can also join a cooking class where you can get an insight into how these spices and herbs are used for making classic dishes that are enjoyed across the country. The best way to explore the garden is by joining guided or audio tours of the garden, there are also numerous interesting activities that younger crowds can participate in while in the garden.
Visit Kek Lok Si Temple
This temple is popularly known to be among the largest Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia and you should ensure you do not miss it while in Penang. It is considered to be an important pilgrimage site by numerous Buddhist devotees. The highlight of the temple is the lovely towering Kek Lok Si Pagoda and also the statue of Guanyin. This statue was built in the shape of the Goddess of Mercy and it is about 36.5m high. The temple complex is also constructed in different styles which makes it a great destination for architecture enthusiasts. Some of the best places not to miss in the temple are Thai style mid-section, Chinese base, and the Burmese inspired building.
Have fun at Batu Ferringhi Beach
Batu Ferringhi Beach is a top place to go for tourists that are looking for sun and sand. The beach is popularly known to be among the best beach areas on the island. Part of the long strip of the golden beach is available for the public while the other parts are used by the resorts that surround the coast. Some of the top things to do here are to go sunbathing, swimming in the waters, or just relax and just enjoy stunning views across the water. You should also ensure you come here during the sunset for mind-blowing views.
Visit Khoo Kongsi
Khoo Kongsi is among the most iconic attractions in Penang and was once a clan-house during the olden days. It is now used as a museum where you will find mind-blowing architecture and also elegant stone carvings with Chinese influence. Khoo Kongsi was constructed during the 19th century and it houses numerous interesting features like the large temple altar that is designed with gold leaf and inlaid with ancestral tablets. The best thing to do is to go on a tour of the building and if you are lucky, you can also enjoy a Chinese Opera show here.
Explore the Snake Temple
The Snake Temple in Penang is a unique temple that you can visit in Malaysia and it houses varieties of slithery creatures. The temple dates back to 1805 when snakes entered the building while the monks allowed them to stay in the temple. Most of the snake in the temple are pit vipers and you are going to find them coiled in corners all over the temple and also lounging on the temple altars. The temple is a great spot to go with family as the snakes are said to be safe and do not attack visitors.
Go on a tram ride on Penang Hill
Penang Hill is considered to be among the top destination not to miss while in Penang. The hills soar to about 812m height above the sea level and it offers a great escape from the fierce heat of the city. You can get to the top of the hill by taking a tram which is considered to be among the oldest funicular systems in the world. Once you get to the top, you are going to enjoy mind-blowing views across Kedah and Langkawi. You are also going to find varieties of nature trails that you can explore if you want to hike or trek to the hill from the Botanical Gardens nearby.