Penang Attractions
Penang island has a little something for everyone – be it awonderful culture, numerous tourist spots,sunny beaches,excellent food, orgrandshopping. Although thriving withfast-paced city life, the island is steeped in history andtraditions, and has always been known to have some of themost mouthwatering cuisine in Malaysia.
Kek Lok Si Temple
The magnificent Kek Lok Si Temple is amongst the most popular attractions in Penang, standing proud on top of a hill in Air Itam. The temple, which is one of thehugest Buddhist temple complexes in Southeast Asia, was constructed more than a century ago, and is filled with several sacred temples andpicturesque gardens. The temple is home to an impressive collection of sacred statues, including the Pagoda of 1000 Buddhas, The Four Heavenly Kings and the gigantic bronze Kuan Yin statue on the hill.
Penang Hill
Also known as Bukit Bendera (Flagstaff Hill), Penang Hill offers a wonderfully cool and serene getaway from the hustle and bustle below. Reachable by a cosy funicular train, Penang Hillhosts a eatery, a church, a Hindu temple and a mosque. The hiss is also awonderful place to indulge in fantastic viewsof the whole isle from the top.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
The award-winning Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion is a great place to catch a glimpse of the best of 18th– and 19th-century Chinese architecture in Penang. The mansion wasconstructed on the principles of Feng Shui, anddisplays a beautifully well-preserved build of what used to be thedwelling of a splendid Mandarin family.
Fort Cornwallis
Fort Cornwallis was the spot where Francis Light was said to have landed in 1786. Rebuilt between 1808 and 1810, was named after Charles Marquis Cornwallis, a Governor General of India. While most of the remains still stand, the fort’s grounds have been turned into a public park and open air theatre, still guarded by its old cannons. Its most renownedcannon is Seri Rambai, which dates back to 1613.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
Exhibiting the luxurious lifestyle of the traditional Baba and Nonya of Penang, the Pinang Peranakan Mansion retains its fascinating architecture, interior decor and culture. At one time the homeof Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee, the mansion now boastsan splendid collection of antiques and colelctibles.
There are many other great attractions in Penang that are not to be missed. Some of of the other must-visits are for example the awe-inspiring Penang Botanic Gardens, Penang Butterfly Farm, thelarge night market along Batu Ferringhi, andplenty others.