Travel to Penang

Travel to Penang

Situated near Malaysias western coast, not far from the border with Thailand, the island of Penang attracts many visitors to its unique heritage and beautiful beaches.
Since its time as the first trading post of the British in the Far East, Penang has experienced a unique mix of Eastern and Western traditions, with a particularly strong Chinese influence.

Transportation to Penang

Penang Airport is Malaysias second largest airport. It is well-equipped with regular services to Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Bangkok. The airport is located not far from Georgetown, on the islands southeastern coast.

No train connections arrive on Penang Island itself, but travellers can take a train to Butterworth on the mainland and then transfer to the island by ferry. Penang is linked to the mainland by one of Asias longest bridges, providing long-distance bus travel to and from a selection of Malaysian destinations.

What to see

Penang offers visitorseverythingthey could wish for. Beaches, history, diverse culture, shopping and food; Penang has it all. Georgetown, the capital city, is the only major settlement on this large island, offering high-rise hotels and good tourist services as well as attractive tree-lined suburbs that are reminiscent of Penangs colonial past.

Fort Cornwallis, in the centre of Georgetown, dates back to the late 18th century. A funicular railway takes visitors up to the top of Penang Hill, 'behind Georgetown. From here you can admire the superb views and visit the remarkable mosque and Hindu temple. The Khoo Kongsi and Kuan Yin Teng are well preserved examples of the many Chinese temples that are still active in the city.

Daytrips

The Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve, at the islands most western tip, has sandy beaches, rocky shorelines and both lowland and hillside forests. Some of the finest and least known beaches can be found on the islands northwestern coast. This canonly bereached by a hike from Teluk Bahang or by sea. Considered one of the largest and most beautiful complexes in Southeast Asia, the Kek Lok Si is located at Air Itam.
It is made up of a seven-storey high pagoda influenced by Burmese, Chinese and Thai craftsmanship.

Activities and leisure

As famous as Penang is for its beaches, there are plenty of treasures to be discovered in the emerald hills, offering plenty of trails to interested strollers as well as energetic hikers. Penang is also a resort island with a large quantity of fine hotels, nightclubs and restaurants. Sun-worshippers will find plenty of ways to cool off after a long day at the beach.

Safety issues

Be on your guard when travelling in unfamiliar areas. Tourists are more at risk of pick-pocketing, theft or loss of personal belongings. Outdoor activities and travel places you at greater risk. Spoiled travel plans through natural disasters, accidents and other unforeseen events can result in financial loss. We therefore strongly recommend that you take out sufficient travel insurance for you and your family.