Penang Sightseeing Guide - Visit notable attractions and landmarks

Penang offers visitors a rich blend of interesting architecture, religious and historical sights, and vibrant natural beauty. The historic Georgetown is an interesting place to wander around, its impressive colonial buildings making grand statements about the area's colorful past.

Malaysia's largest temple is located in Penang, overlooking the picturesque town of Air Itam. Kek Lok Si is a magnificent sight all year round, but during Chinese New Year the temple transforms itself with a magical display of lights and an electric atmosphere.

At 821m above sea level, Penang Hill is a refreshing welcome escape from the tiresome heat of the city. Visitors can experience the grandeur of Penang's finest colonial mansions, while enjoying a bird's eye view of the island.

The Chor Soo Kong Temple, otherwise known as ‘Snake Temple', is guarded by large vipers and tree snakes. Visitors can observe, and even handle, the snakes as their venom has been removed.

Georgetown

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a crumbling collection of buildings and shop-houses which date back to the town's colonial times. The main sights include Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, which dates back to the 1890s and was designed according to feng shui principles. Georgetown is best explored on foot.

Kek Lok Si

Malaysia's largest temple enjoys a hilltop location; a mini-funicular provides transport to a statue of Kuan Yin, the Goddess of Mercy, who stands tall at the summit. A Chinese immigrant founded the temple in 1890. Buses run from outside Komtar, and the sight is best visited during weekdays as weekends are very crowded.

Penang Hill

The Penang Hill Funicular ride lifts visitors above the stifling heat and humidity of the coastal plain to a cool, breezy hilltop haven. At the top, beautiful gardens, charming mansions and a Hindu temple add to the incredible panorama. Visitors can take the Transit Link bus number 1, 101, 351 or 361 to Air Itam. The funicular ascends every 30 minutes.

Snake Temple

This temple was built in dedication to a Buddhist priest and healer by one of his patients. The temple dates back to 1850, and is guarded by large intimidating snakes. The snakes are believed to be harmless due to the doping effect of incense smoke; however, their venom has been removed in the interest of safety. Buses 68 and 69 depart from Komtar.

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