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Penang is a state located in Northwest Malaysia. The state is connected by the two longest bridges, which connect an island and a peninsula. The place is famous for its rich culture and traditional foods in Malaysia. The capital city of Penang, George Town is the major tourist destination among travelers of Malaysia. Some examples of Penang attractions are – Tropical fruit farms, Spice gardens, Kek Lok Si Temple, and Botanic gardens.
A few parts of the capital city George Town are also recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Wondering how to spend your time while you are on your tour to Penang? We have got your back. Here is the list of famous landmarks in Penang. Know about them and make your trip a memorable one. Let’s get started.
Entopia
Entopia is a giant house glass conservatory where more than 15,000 free-flying butterflies have their home among the waterfalls and greenery. You can witness butterflies in their natural element while exploring Penang attractions. Special events go on here throughout the day. And this attracts the visitors more as they can interact closely with the butterflies and learn more about them.
The two main sections of Entopia are Natureland and Cocoon. Natureland is the main butterfly area that is encompassed by the living garden vivarium. The garden has ponds in addition to the special area where several insects live. The second section Cocoon is the discovery center of Entopia. Here the visitors and tourists can have more information about the butterflies and can even participate in hands-on activities.
Fort Cornwallis
One of the most famous landmarks of Penang is Fort Cornwallis. It is also the largest fort in the country. The structures of the fort are enough to give you an idea of its massive size.
You can take a stroll in the lush green lawns in this landmark of Penang and find the remains of prison cells, a storage area, and a chapel. Captain Francis Light’s bronze statue is the opening of this fort which welcomes the visitors as they enter through the gate.
Spice Garden
With plenty of species of flora and fauna, a tropical spice garden is a jungle spread over a 3.2-hectare area. You might be surprised to know that it is the only tropical spice garden in Southeast Asia. You can include a spice garden in your tour to Penang and spend a great time or afternoon with your family. There are three garden trails in the conservation area of this garden. It feels mesmerizing to see the stream crossings and waterfalls here.
Moreover, you will get to see the stream crossings, structures of recycled organic materials, and waterfalls here. The farm believes in using natural and recycled building materials. Do you love cooking? If yes, here is the good news. You can learn to cook lip-smacking Malaysian dishes at the culinary school constructed inside the garden.
Penang National Park
It is one of the smallest national parks in the world, spread over just 23 square kilometers. Still, there is a huge number of plant species that is more than 400 different plant species, in the five distinct habitats of Penang National Park. Undoubtedly, you can see breathtaking forests and mangroves. And a long stretch of seacoast here makes the park all the more beautiful. The timber trees line up the white powdery sand and coastal habitat.
Mostly there are zigzag trails into the jungle. You can see the landmarks along the coastline, like the Muka Head lighthouse. And how can you reach there? By trekking up a hill at the end of Monkey beach. You can even enjoy camping here. Including camping in your Penang activities can make your trip to Penang an adventurous one. Just make the registration at the office if you have any plans of camping before entering the park.
War Museum
It is a 20-acre outdoor living war museum built in the 1930s and is considered the largest war museum in Southeast Asia. World War 2nd did significant damage to the structure as it was unable to cease the Japanese army from invading it. Later, it got reconstructed. Now, it is a memorial to umpteen men who died under occupation.
The main attractions of the museum include ammunition bunkers, a communications center, and pillboxes.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Kek Lok si is the largest Buddhist temple in Malaysia. It includes more than 10,000 Buddha statues. Besides, there is a long tall bronze sculpture of Kuan Yin which is 37 meters. Kuan Yin is also called Guanyin, who is the goddess of mercy and compassion in Chinese Mythology. There are nearly 100 smaller statues of Guanyin near the main statue, and every statue is 2 meters tall.
Buddhists from all over Southeast Asia come to this temple to pay their obeisance as it is their main destination. The temple has colorful halls, ponds with fishes and turtles, and many lanterns along the way, especially in the month when Chinese New Year is about to arrive.
Botanic Gardens
It was established by the British in 1884 with the contribution of Charles Curtis and the Forests Department Straits Settlements. The botanic gardens of Penang are usually called “Waterfall gardens.” But do you know what the irony is? There is no actual waterfall within the garden. However, it is located nearby, and the waterfall is on private property. Local non-government organizations conduct special monthly tours to take you to the waterfall as it is the only way to see it.
Visitors can enjoy jungle trekking and explore this extensive tropical rainforest. The park also takes active participation in the research and conservation programs being organized. You can find some amazing species of animals here, like black giant squirrels, long-tailed macaques, and many more.
Fruit Farm
This 10-hectare organic orchard in Penang has more than 250 types of fruit trees. It was developed in 1993. It aims to conserve rare fruit trees in Malaysia.
The farm has trees from widespread areas of the world like Central Africa, the Middle East, and South American and Caribbean islands. This tropical farm supports ecotourism by utilizing only organic fertilizers.
Clan Jetties
Clan Jetties come under Penang historical places or areas. It is a traditional village. The houses and structures in this village are built on stilts. Chinese immigrants created this unique type of water settlement in the late 19th century.
The waterfront has a total of six jetties at present. Various families live here as these are private property. But most jetties welcome visitors warmly. It makes the visitors and tourists visit the local temple and witness the beautiful sunset over the water.
Yahong Art Gallery
Want to see the art and culture of Malaysian and Asian artists? Head straight to the Yahong art gallery and explore the handicrafts, jewelry, antiques, and art in this gallery.
The gallery includes some famous batik art by Chuah Thean Teng and his sons Chuah Seow Keng, Chuah Siew Kek, and Chuah Siew Teng.
To Make a Long Story Short
There is a lot to explore in Malaysia, a place where you can find nature, history, and religion all at one place. Penang is one such place where you can get solace. Just keep the above-mentioned places in mind while planning your Penang trip, and you will be good to go. May your holiday be the best you can ever have.
Frequently Asked Question
What Things Can You Do in the Landmarks of Penang?
There are many things to do in the landmarks of Penang. You can go camping in the national park, visit the Kek Lok Si temple, explore the war museum, and many more.
What is George Town Penang known for?
George town is a must-visit place if you are planning your trip to Malaysia. You can’t miss out on exploring the colonial streets of Georgetown, street art, and its culture. It is known for its several species of trees and animals, beautiful temples, and white-sand beaches.
Why Do Tourists Visit Penang?
Tourists love to explore the famed heritage houses, street art, street food, and the dramatic landscapes of Penang. The place is also popular due to its UNESCO World heritage honor. This gives the tourists yet another reason to visit this place on earth.
Which is the Best Month to Visit Penang?
You can visit this place all year round. But you must know the weather before planning your trip. The months from November to January are considered apt for sightseeing as the weather is pleasant and people enjoy the festive vibes to their fullest. February to April is quieter. You can enjoy the city without having much crowd. May to October are the wettest months which sees a drop in tourists. If you want to have a quiet vacation, you can choose these months but don’t forget to carry an umbrella or raincoat wherever you go. So, decide your priorities and then choose when you want to visit this place.