Attractions in Penang – Top 5

Though a relatively small island, Penang has plenty to offer, from wonderfully sandy beaches, to a vibrant modern city life, to spectacular cultural and historical attractions, to fantastic shopping, to arguably some of the best food in Malaysia. There are lots of attractions in Penang, with an array of temples, cultural and historical sites, and others.

Khoo Kongsi Temple

Known to be one of the finest and oldest Chinese clan house in the country, the Khoo Kongsi Temple is a spectacular one, with its ornate structure still well-preserved. The Khoo clan was formed in 1935, and the meeting house-temple was completed nine years later. The temple has two floors: The bottom one being the Khoo Kongsi Clan Museum, and the top housing the magnificent central hall, the ancestral hall, and the hall to the God of prosperity.

Cheong Fatt Tze (Blus Mansion)

Another important heritage site is the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion, a wonderfully well-preserved 18^th and 19^th-century Chinese structure. The mansion, which was once home to an thriving Nanyang industralist, was constructed relying on the principles of Feng Shui, from 1896 to 1904.

Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a perfect example of how an affluent Baba-Nyonya lived a century ago. The Babas and Nonyas, also called the Peranakans, are one of Penang’s famous heritage, with a signature hodgepodge of customs and traditions. The irresistible mansion preserves the fantastic cultural decor, together with various antiques and artefacts.

Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)

Offering a cool atmosphere, contrary to the warm weather in the island, Penang Hill is one of the most popular attractions in Penang. Not only do you enjoy a cool holiday spot, but also incredible staggering vistas of the entire island from the top. Probably the best part about the hill is the fascinating funicular train which takes visitors to the top of the hill, which lies a restaurant, a mosque, a church, a Hindu temple, and even a snake show.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Standing proudly on top of a hill in Ayer Itam, the Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. This enchanting temple, which was founded over a century ago, offers beautiful gardens and sacred temples. There is the wondrous Pagoda of 1000 Buddhas, the statues of The Four Heavenly Kings, the enormous bronze Kuan Yin statue on the hill, and other mesmerizing views.

The plethora of tourist destinations in Penang will keep any guest fascinated and in awe. The most spectacular of them all consist of the city’s cultural and historical gems, such as its temples and historical sites.