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Penang Tourist Attractions

CITY HALL

Built in 1903. this is the headquarters of the Penang Island Municipal Council. A World War I monument for fallen soldiers is also located here.

TOWN HALL

This was the previous social venue for Penang's elite back in the 1880’s. Its classic colonial elegance was the backdrop for a scene in the movie, Anna and the King. Located nearby is an ornate fountain which was presented to the public of Penang by Koh Seang Tat in 1883.

DEWAN SRI PINANG

This community hall is a popular venue for local and international art exhibitions, orchestras, expositions and festivals.

PENANG ART GALLERY

The Penang Art Gallery was officially opened in 1964. The gallery showcases outstanding works by local and international artists including those from Japan and Thailand. Address: Tingkat Bawah, Dewan Sri Pinang, Lebuh Light. 10200 Pulau Pinang. Opening hours: 9.00am - 5.00pm Closed on Sunday and Public Holidays Tel: 04-261 3144 Fax:04-261 4544 Email: Muzium@po.jaring my

ESPLANADE

The Esplanade is a seafront promenade bordering an open field where festivals and events are often held. Located along this winding stretch are a War Memorial to fallen soldiers, a hawker food court and the ancient Fort Cornwallis.

FORT CORNWALLIS

Built when Captain Francis Light first landed on Penang, this ancient sentinel of George Town stands guard over the island's cape. Visiting hours are 9am -6pm daily and closed on Sundays.

QUEEN VICTORIA MEMORIAL CLOCK TOWER

The 60-foot clock tower, commissioned by the wealthy Cheah Chen Eok. It was built in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee. Each foot represents a year in the Queen's reign.

STATE ASSEMBLY BUILDINGS

These exquisite 19th century buildings were formerly the Police Court and are now the venue for State Assemblies.

CATHEDRAL OF THE ASSUMPTION

The Church was established by Father Garnault along Church Street It moved to its present site in 1861. In 1955 it was awarded the status of a Cathedral.

PENANG STATE MUSEUM

Almost destroyed in World War II bombing this building houses a plethora of Penang historic artefacts.

ST. GEORGE'S CHURCH

Built between 1817 and 1818, it is said to be the oldest Anglican church in Southeast Asia.

GODDESS OF MERCY TEMPLE

This popular temple is dedicated to Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy. The first foundation was laid in 1728 by Chinese settlers and completed in 1800.

MAHAMARIAMMAN TEMPLE

Built in 1883, it is the oldest Hindu temple in George Town. It began as a humble Hindu shrine dedicated to Sri Muthu Mariamman. A distinctive feature of the temple is its gopuram with 38 exquisitely carved Hindu deities.

TEOCHEW TEMPLE

A prime example of Teochew architecture. The temple was built in 1855 and moved to its present site in 1870. In 2006 the temple received the Award of the Merit UNESCO Asia-Pacific for Culture Heritage Conservation. The temple is also known as the Han Jiang Teochew Ancestral Temple.

KAPITAN KELING MOSQUE

Founded in 1801. it is the largest historic mosque in George Town. Designed in Moghul architecture, it features beautiful minarets and domes.

CHEAH K0NGSI

This clan temple features classic Chinese architecture with the surprising addition of British lion heads on the temple. The lions symbolise the Straits Chinese loyalty to the British colonial powers. The Cheah Clan is one of the oldest Hokkien clans in Penang The temple was completed in the 1870s. Visiting hours are 9am - 5pm daily.

KHOO KONGSI

Completed around 1906 the temple belongs to the Khoo Kongsi clan. The temple features fine Chinese architecture and craftsmanship. Visiting hours are 9am - 5pm daily.

MASJID MELAYU LEBUH ACHEH

The mosque was founded by Tengku Syed Hussain bin Abdul Rahman Aideed in 1608 for the early Hadhrami Arab settlers. To this day, the descendants of those families live in the 19th century bungalows that surround the mosque.

ISLAMIC MUSEUM (SYED AL-ATTAS MANSION)

Built in I860, this elegant home was once the proud abode of Syed Mohammad Al-Attas, a prominent Achehnese merchant who was a stalwart supporter of the Achehnese struggle against the Dutch. The home has been converted into an Islamic Museum to educate about the heritage of the Penang's Muslim community. Visiting hours are 9am - 5 30pm daily, closed on Tuesday.

THE PINANG PERANAKAN MANSION

This old mansion, former home of Kapitan Chung Keng Kwee, showcases over 1.000 antiques and collectibles depicting the life of the Straits Chinese, or Peranakan as they were locally known. Visiting hours are 9.30am - 5pm (Mondays to Fridays), 9.30am -3pm (Saturdays), closed or Sundays and public holidays.

LITTLE INDIA

This little quarter of South Indian culture is where early Indian immigrants settled down to make Penang their home It is the islands epicentre of Indian music, savoury cuisine, exotic spices and authentic goods.

TANJONG CITY MARINA

Malaysia's first inner city marina is open to the public. Spanning 1.6 ha. the marina formerly known as the Church Street Pier, is adjacent to the Penang ferry terminal.

PENANG FERRY SERVICE

Penang Ferry began operations in 1920, making it the oldest ferry service in Malaysia. These iconic ferries ply between the Seberang Perai mainland and Penang Island, carrying both passengers and vehicles.

CLAN JETTIES

Located along the Weld Quay are Penang's historical clan jetties, home to families of traders, fishermen and dock workers. Built during the 19th century, these traditional houses are built over the sea on stilts and are connected by wooden walkways.

UPPER PENANG ROAD

A bustling lifestyle enclave comprising bistros, cafes, local coffee shops, clubs and pubs, restaurants, handicraft and cultural stores, clothing shops, hotels and much more!

CAMPBELL STREET

Campbell Street is well known for its traditional Chinese medicinal shops. Indian boutiques and other stores selling merchandise. The famous Campbell Street Market, built in 1900, is where you could procure fresh fruits, seafood and meats.

KOMTAR

Built in 1978, Kompleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR) IS Penang's tallest building, rising 65 storeys. Named after the late Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak bin Hussein, the complex is a shopping mall, business hub and the home to the Penang's State Government.

GURNEY DRIVE

Named after Sir Henry Gurney, a High Commissioner of Malaya, this seafront promenade is famous for its open air hawker court and Gurney Plaza, an upscale mall with international boutiques.

CHEONG FATT TZE MANSION

The 'Blue Mansion’ former home of tycoon Cheong Fatt Tze is a famous location to film movies and television series. Guided tours are available daily at 11am and 3pm.

BENGGALI MOSQUE

The mosque was founded in 1803. It was built on land granted by the East India Company.

HAINAN TEMPLE

The temple, founded in 1866, is dedicated to the patron saint of seafarers, the goddess Mar Chor. The present building was built in 1895, restored in 1995. Visiting hours are from 8am – 8pm daily.

WAT CHAYAMANGKALARAM

WAT Chayamangkalaram is a Thai Buddhist temple built in 1845 on land granted by Queen Victoria as a gesture of goodwill to Thailand. The temple has one of the largest Reclining Buddha statues in the world. Spectacular to behold, the statue is completely gold-plated and measures 33 metres in length. You can also appreciate the magnificent craftsmanship in the exquisite statues of Devas and other mythical creatures located on the temple grounds. Opening hours: 6.00am - 5.30pm Tel: 016-410 5115

DHARMIKARAMA BURMESE TEMPLE

Located on Lorong Burma, this Burmese temple is the favoured venue for the Songkran festivities - Thailand's traditional New Year Day - which is celebrated in April. The temple's serene surroundings feature a Bodhi tree, wishing pond and pagoda. Tel. 04-226 9575

SWETTENHAM PIER

Built in 1904, Swettenham Pier used to one of the busiest trading ports back in the days when Penang was a trading hub. At present it has been redeveloped into a terminal for large cruise ships and other boats. The new terminal has facilities for shipping and cruise passenger arrivals and departures. Tel: 04-210 2227

P. RAMLEE’S HOUSE

This landmark commemorates the late larger-than-life comedian, actor, singer, composer and film director P. Ramlee. It chronicles his life history as well as showcases personal memorabilia. Opening hours: 10.00am - 5.30pm (Closed on Mondays, if there is a public holiday on Sunday) Tel: 04-281 7484

STATE MOSQUE

The State Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in the country. Construction of the mosque began in 1976 and was completed in 1980. Elegant and iconic, the mosque is located on 45 hectares land, easily accommodating 5.000 worshippers. Opening hours: 9.00am - 5.30pm.
Please dress appropriately and remove your shoes before entering. Permission to enter must be obtained from mosque officials.

SUFFOLK HOUSE

The Suffolk House was built in the 1780s on a vast estate owned by the founder of Penang (then Prince of Wales Island), Captain Francis Light. Considered the first "Great house of Penang", the Suffolk House was named after Light's birthplace, Suffolk, England. The unique mansion features authentic Anglo-Indian architecture, which earned it a special recognition from UNESCO. The structure has gone through many stages of restoration spanning over 40 years. Today, part of the mansion has been converted into an upscale restaurant. Tel:04-228 1109, Fax:04-228 1103 Restaurant reservation: 04-228 3930

AIR ITAM DAM

Opened in 1962, the dam is a popular recreational and picnic venue. It is located on gentle hillocks, next to Penang Hill. The dam commands panoramic views of the island and George Town.

KEK LOK SI TEMPLE

Kek Lok Si means Temple of Supreme Bliss' Construction began in 1890, with the completion of its seven-storey handcrafted "Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas" in 1930. The pagoda is considered one of Penang's most beautiful architectural wonders with its Chinese octagonal base. Thai middle tier and Burmese crown. A 30.2m Kuan Yin bronze statue was completed in 2002. Opening hours.:9.00am- 6.00pm Tel 04-899 8222

PENANG HILL

Penang Hill offers a panoramic view of the city 830m above sea level. Getting to the top is half the fun with a choice of hiking or travelling in a funicular tram. At the summit, there is a flower garden, a mini bird park, bungalows and guest houses. Funicular train schedule: 6.30am -9.15pm (Monday - Thursday^ Sunday) 6.30am- 11.15pm (Fridays, Saturday) Tel: 04-828 3263

TAMAN PERBANDARAN (Penang Municipal Park)

The Penang Municipal Park is a recreational park designed for active youths. Built in the 1970's on quarry land, the park was called Penang Youth Park. Today, the park is a popular sports and lifestyle venue with a skating rink, outdoor auditorium for open-air festivals and concerts and a water park. Opening Hours: 7.00am-7.00pm Tel: 04-226 3051 (office hours: 8.00am-5.00pm)

PENANG BOTANIC GARDENS

The 30-hectare Botanic Gardens is a popular park among locals for its refreshing ambience. It was created in 1884 by the British to collect botanical specimens from the surrounding hills. Two must-see attractions are the Japanese Garden and the Bamboo Setum within the arboretum. The annual international floral test draws throngs of people with its colourful and magnificent displays. Opening hours: 6.00am - 9.00pm Tel: 04-227 0428

WATERFALL HILLTOP TEMPLE

Dedicated to the deity Murugan. the Balathandayuthapani Temple is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Penang. Originally, it was located within the Botanic Gardens but was later moved to its present hilltop location at the beginning of the 20th century. The temple is the last destination for the annual Thaipusam festival.

FLOATING MOSQUE

Malaysia's first floating mosque at the sea is located along the scenic stretch of Tanjung Bunga. Accommodating up to 1,500 worshippers, the mosque features a blend of local and Middle Eastern architecture with a seven-storey minaret There is an open space for visitors to sea gaze peacefully.

BATU FERINGGI

Batu Feringgi is one of Penang's most popular beaches and has drawn tourists over the years to its sandy banks. Along this winding stretch of beach, you will find a host of attractions from ocean sports, parasailing, horse riding and even a night bazaar!

TROPICAL SPICE GARDEN

The garden is a picturesque oasis, home to over 500 exotic varieties of plants. Its undulating landscaped trails invite visitors to go on a mesmerising, refreshing discovery. Opening hours. 9.00am - 6.00pm (Last admission at 5.30pm) Tel: 04-881 1797

PENANG NATIONAL PARK

For nature lovers, the national park is the place to be. Exciting rainforest trails take one on a journey of beauty. Thrill seekers should head for the canopy walk Hovering 15m above the ground, the 250m long walk will give you a rare experience. The pristine beaches of Teluk Duyung, Muka Head and Pantai Kerachut are also a popular attraction. The park is home to a meromictic lake and is also a nesting site for turtles. Opening hours: 7.30am - 7.00pm Tel: 04-881 3530/881 3500

TELUK BAHANG DAM

Located off the northern cape of Penang Island, the dam was completed in 1999. Its scenic surroundings are a favourite picnic spot for locals. The dam has been the dramatic stage for the annual Penang International Dragon Boat Festival races since 2002.

PENANG BUTTERFLY FARM

The name may seem like a misnomer as there are more than butterflies living here. The farm has over 3000 living specimens from over 50 species of rare and exotic butterflies, frogs, scorpions and other insects. Opening hours. 9.00am -5.00pm (weekdays) / 9.00am - 6.00pm (weekends - last admission at 5.30pm) Tel: 04-885 1253

FOREST RECREATION PARK AND MUSEUM

The forestry museum is an education centre on the forestry sector and how it plays an important role in the social-economic development of Malaysia. Explore the breathtaking 100-acre landscaped park and encounter beautiful floras and faunas. Dormitories are available should you opt to spend the night there. Opening hours.:9.00am -5.00pm Tel: 04-885 2388 / 1280

TAMAN AWAM METROPOLITAN RELAU

The park was opened in 2003 as an agro-tounsm site. It is the second largest recreational park on Penang Island with facilities for jungle trekking, mountain biking, hiking, outdoor games, jogging as well as a children's playground.

UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA (USM) MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY

There is a diverse collection of Baba Nyonya and Malay artifacts, textiles, prints, traditional jewellery and Malay daggers as well as a collection of paintings. Opening hours: 9.00am - 6.00pm 9.00am- 12. 15pm/2.45pm - 6.00pm (Friday) Closed on Monday and public holidays Tel: 04-653 3261/653 2137

SNAKE TEMPLE

Built in 1850. the snake temple - also known as the Temple of Azure Cloud - is dedicated to Chor Soo Kong, a priest who was believed to have extraordinary healing powers. However, according to local folklore, a religious man offered the venomous pit vipers shelter from danger and since then, they have stayed in safety of the temple. Opening hours. 6.00am - 7.00pm Tel 04-643 7273

BATU MAUNG FISHING VILLAGE

The Batu Maung fishing village is a close-knit community located at Penang Island’s southeastern tip. It is famed for a mysterious giant footprint on a boulder at the beach. Known as Tapak Gedembai, the origins of the footprint differ among the different communities. The Chinese believe the footprint was left by Admiral Cheng Ho, while Indians believe it was the footprint of the monkey god Hanuman and Malays believe it belonged to a fleeing giant.

WAR MUSEUM

The Penang War Museum is built on the remnants of an old British fort which defended Penang's coast from attack. The museum is a memorial to those who died defending the country as well as aims to be an educational centre about life in Penang during World War II. It features old war relics and depicts the lifestyle of soldiers in those times The historic site is an ideal setting for paintball tournaments. For reservations, call Jenny at 016-421 3606. Opening hours. 9.00am - 6.00pm Tel: 04-626 5142

PENANG BRIDGE

The Penang Bridge was opened in 1985 The bridge was awarded the Grand Award in the United States of America Engineeing Excellence in 1986 in addition to other distinguished awards. Spanning 13.5 km, the bridge is the main link between the mainland of Peninsular Malaysia and Penang Island. It is also the annual site of the Penang Bridge Run.

PENANG BIRD PARK

The RM1.2 million bird park is home to more than 300 species of birds from around the wold. Conceived as a garden oasis, the five-acre park is filled with waterfalls, natural ponds and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Within this beautiful environment are two walk-in averies. two geodesic domes and cages. You can also see free-roaming pelicans, flamingos, swans, storks, mandarin ducks and other kinds of birds. Opening hours: 9.00am - 6.30pm Tel: 604-399 1899 Fax: 604-399 1899

NINE EMPEROR GODS TEMPLE

First built in 1971 this temple has gone through various makeovers over the years and is now one of the biggest temples in Butterworth. The temple is dedicated to the worship of the Nine Emperor Gods. On the 9th Month of the Chinese Lunar Month the Nine Emperor Gods Festival will be held for duration of 9 days. During the festival, rituals such as skewering of a 9m spear between the mouth and fire walking are carried out.

MENGKUANG DAM

The dam was completed in 1984, taking two years for construction. It was officially opened in 1985. Mengkuang Dam is notably larger than the Air Itam Dam with a storage capacity ten times greater than Air Itam. It was the former venue for the Penang International Dragon Boat Festival.

ST. ANNE'S CHURCH

A visiting priest. Fr. Adolphe Couellan, built a small chapel in 1846. A larger church was built in 2002 to accommodate the annually growing number of pilgrims. The church is named after St Anne, mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Every year St Anne's Feast in July is celebrated grandly. It is usually followed by two nights of candle light procession and vigil.

TAMAN RIMBA BUKIT MERTAJAM

Located 457 metres above sea level, the Recreational Forest is home to many mainland indigenous trees and flora and fauna. Take a fascinating hike through 37 hectares of sprawling rainforest. Chalets are available for those who are interested to stay. Tel: 04-650 5250 / 650 5251 (State Forestry Department)

AUTO-CITY JURU

Auto-City is one of Penang's most prominent lifestyle venues. Opened in 2003, it is a massive automobile show arena for prestigious carmakers. With its vast array of restaurants and regular festivals and events, the City is a hotspot for leisure and entertainment. Tel: 04-501 1222

BATU MUSANG JETTY

Completed in 2007, the Batu Musang Jetty was built to improve the means of transportation of the local residents of Pulau Aman and neighbouring Pulau Gedung to and from the mainland. Conceptually designed to blend with the surrounding flora and fauna the jetty is equipped with food and drink stalls, toilets, waiting hall and also spacious parking lots. Surrounded by untouched lush greenery, the jetty has been a favourite spot amongst the locals for camping, picnics and fishing activities. For "water taxi' services to Pulau Aman from the Batu Musang Jetty, please contact Mr Haji Yaakob 019-409 0945

FIREFLY SANCTUARY

Behold the rare enchanting sight of fireflies along the Sungai Kerian riverbank with a morning or sunset cruise. Other exotic activities you could try are octopus catching, bat cave exploration and visiting Penang's largest sea fish cage farm. For more information about these packages, please visit: www.amazingplanner.com. my

TAMAN RIMBA BUKIT PANCHOR

Opened in 1963, the 8-hectare park is located in the southern part of Seberang Perai. It is a popular camping site under a canopy of indigenous trees and plants. The bat caves are a major tourist attraction. Chalets are available for those who are interested to stay. Tel: 04-650 5250 / 650 5251 (State Forestry Department)