1. Batu Feringghi

Batu Feringghi is a resort strip with white sandy beaches. There are a number of large and luxurious Batu Feringghi hotels. They are Hard Rock Hotel, Golden Sands Resort, Bayview Beach Resort and more. Batu Feringghi is indeed an ideal place for a great relaxing vacation, nothing but a getaway from cities, exclusively for urbanites. There are a lot of activities that can be done during the visit to Batu Feringghi. They are mostly water sports activities, such as canoeing and sailing. Apart from them, one can experience horse riding along the beach or just simply strolling and enjoying the cool breeze.

Feringghi Garden is the best place to dine in for all visitors. This restaurant has been the talk of the town for months. The environment is romantic with interesting outdoor sitting. The food offered is capable in tantalizing your taste buds and the prices are affordable.

2. Bayan Lepas

Bayan Lepas is the home of the Free Industrial Zone. There are a large number of factories located in Bayan Lepas and most of them are from multinational companies. They are Motorola, BBraun, Agilent Technologies, Jabil Circuit and more whereas one of the examples of local factories is Wanjun Engineering. Most factories there are engineering and technology based. If you think that Georgetown is the only beating heart in Penang, then this article will prove you wrong.

There are many tourist attractions in Bayan Lepas. One of them is the Snake Temple. The temple is situated at Sungai Kluang, Bayan Lepas. This is most probably the only temple of its own kind. The temple is filled with snakes coiling around the pillars and also on vases. Many tourists and too, locals pray and make offerings in the temple. Moreover, you can have zero distance experience with the snakes while taking pictures with them under the supervisor of professional in the temple. Penang’s biggest shopping mall Queensbay Mall is located in Bayan Lepas too. The mall consists of cinema, arcade centre and definitely a variety of outlets offering affordable discounted items and high end brands. Jerejak Island (Pulau Jerejak) is an off island from Penang. It is popular with its nature environment and unique flora and fauna. Eagles and monitor lizards are usual to be seen around there. The island is definitely a getaway from the busy moving city. Some famous hotels in Penang are located in Bayan Lepas too, including B-Suite Hotel and Vistana Hotel. Spending a night or more in Penang is indeed a bright choice as there is insufficient time to discover and explore the whole of Penang in just 24 hours. Just like in Georgetown, famous hawker food is available everywhere in Bayan Lepas. It is certain that everyone is aware of the Penang Bridge. Still, there are many expressways in Penang where reduce the heavy flow of traffic including the Bayan Lepas expressway and Jelutong Expressway. Thus, it is easy to travel from Bayan Lepas to the other parts of Penang including the mainland, Butterworth.

3. Botanical Gardens

The Garden existed in the year of 1884 and it was formerly known as the Waterfalls Garden as there is a high cascade waterfall with its water flowing through the Gardens itself. However, you have no chance in visiting the waterfall nowadays as it is on the territory of the water supply. Every morning, you can see locals any maybe foreigners exercise in the Gardens. They jog while enjoying the beauty of the Gardens with some fresh, clean air. The trees plated there have their own name plates in front of themselves. And so, you can gain some knowledge on the unique trees in Malaysia. The main attraction of the Gardens is the presence of monkeys. The total of monkeys in the Gardens is up to 200 of them. They may be cute but do not feed them as they will be aggressive. Try not to eat in front of them as they may snatch the food away from you. There is also a guided tour where you can just follow if you prefer to.

4. Bukit Jambul Orchid and Hibiscus Garden

The Bukit Jambul Orchid and Hibiscus Garden spreads across a 2 acres land. It is established by two friends, one of them is a horticulturist and the other is a herpetologist. The park is often packed with crowds of locals and also foreigners. The park offers a large variety of plants and animals from all around the world and also from Malaysia itself. There are a pair of Bengal tigers, emu and ostrich, just to name a few and for the plants, there is a pair of hibiscus named after the former Prime Minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamed and his wife.

Besides, the world’s largest tiger orchid can be seen in the park. The orchid is measured as 3 inches across the flower and it blooms only once a year, during the month of September. Reptiles are one of the showcases of the park. There are snakes and crocodiles around in the park. Moreover, there is a cactus garden, snake show, pottery corner and more. Thus, explore the garden is a must.

5. Penang Butterfly Farm

Penang Butterfly Farm is too known as the live museum of all butterflies. It features 150 different species of Malaysian butterflies and brings up to a total of 4000 butterflies in the farm. Throughout the years, Penang Butterfly Farm extended their exhibits with jungle insects and reptiles. This educational visit is best to go on a family day. The admission fee for adults is RM27.00 whereas it is RM15 for children who are from between the age of 4 to 12. Children below 3 years old are free of charge and RM13.50 for senior citizens (58 years old and above, proof of age required).

6. Butterworth Bird Park

Butterworth Bird Park is the first bird park established in Malaysia. It is officiated by Malaysia’s ex Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir bin Mohamad. It is not only the first but it is the largest bird park in Malaysia. The 5 acres bird park preserves its tranquility with amazing landscaping and pretty lush garden. It showcases as much as 300 species of birds from every corner of the world and also from Malaysia itself, of course. Types of birds including hornbills, parrots and hawks are all can be seen in the huge park. There are a total of over 3000 birds in the bird park. There are also unique and amazing flora planted in the park such as hibiscus, bamboo and also palm trees. Several ponds are built in the park too, with lotus and fishes as well as free – roaming water birds including ducks and beautiful swans.

Apart from birds and floras, the Butterworth Bird Park acts as the habitat for a few species of deers and reptiles including the smallest deer in the world, Mousedeer and monitor lizards. On top of all that, visitors have the chance to experience bird feeding. The bird park is opened every day inclusive of public holidays and weekends with affordable entrance fees for malaysian, RM 18 for adults and RM10 for children ; and extrance fee for tourist is chargeable RM 29.00 for adult and RM 15.00 for child (below 12 years old). There is also a restaurant in the park itself Bird Park Restaurant. It serves delicious food with western style and definitely too, amazing local foods.

7. Butterworth (Seberang Jaya)

The mainland, Butterworth is named after William John Butterworth, the Governor of the Straits Settlement dating back from the years in the 80’s. It is established in the mid 90’s. One of the must visit tourist attractions in Butterworth is the Butterworth Bird Park. The bird park located not far from the ferry terminal. The five acre land of Bird Park is the first bird park ever established in Malaysia. This bird park features as much as over 300 species of birds. The species are not only restricted in Malaysia but there are species of birds from all around the world. The total number of birds available in the bird park is around 3000 of them, including hornbills, emu and pelican, just to name a few. The park is opened daily including weekends and also public holidays, thus, adjusting your itinerary to visit the park would not be a fuss.

Want to explore more of the diversity of cultures in Malaysia? Then the Temple of the Ninth Emperor God should definitely be on the list. The temple is one of the biggest temples in Butterworth. It is commonly known as the Tow Boo Kong Temple by the locals. The temple can be divided into a few sections, namely the front prayer hall, inner courtyard, sacred prayer hall and also the Dou Mu prayer hall. The architecture and sculptures of the temple is breathtaking and attractive. The worship of the Ninth Emperor God is predominant throughout Malaysia and too, other countries such as Singapore and Thailand. The Ninth Emperor God festival is held every year, on the ninth day in the ninth month in the Lunar calendar. During the festival, booths and stalls are set up to sell vegetarian food as this is when the worshippers will go on a vegetarian diet for nine days. There are a number of events that are to be observe during the festival including the ceremony of spear skewing, holy devotees on trance by the spirit of the God and more.

8. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion Penang

9. Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple

The temple was known as ‘Nandy Moloh Burmese Temple’ back in the 80’s. It was founded in the year of 1803 and this makes it the oldest Burmese Buddhist temple ever built in Malaysia. It is the only Burmese temple located in Penang and so tourists flock to the temple to visit this preserved site every now and then. Not only an ordinary temple was this very temple awarded the first prize in Penang State Landscaping and Beatification Program competition dating back in 2001 with its green and tranquil environment. The main attractions of the temple are the historical Pagoda, a 200 years old well and the huge all-marble Buddha statue. The temple is rich with history as this temple marks the occupation of the Burmese in Penang. There is also an interesting feature of the temple where paitings are hanging around through the walk way, explaining the journey of Buddha. Throughout the year, the temple organizes some activities and celebrates related festivals including Wesak Day, Water Festival and Festival of Light (Soon Dawgi). Activities carried out are Sunday Classes, Katnina and Meditation Classes, just to name a few.

10. Fort Cornwallis

Fort Cornwallis is one of the first European structures constructed in Penang. The fort walls have a rough height of 10 feet and it is laid out in a star like formation. It was built on the site where the historical Francis Light landed in the year of 1786. Originally, the fort was made out of a stockade by the trunks of nibong palms. Later, it was built up and the materials were replaced with bricks and stones. Fort Cornwallis was gazetted in the year of 1977 as an ancient monument that contributes to the historical side of Penang. The fort was designed by Francis Light as a protective barrier from the French attacks, and also from Kedah and the pirates.

There are a number of cannons around in the fort including the Sri Rambai Cannon. Legend has it that women can improve their fertility by placing flowers on the barrel of the cannon. There is also a statue of Captain Francis Light in the entrance of the fort. A number of cell rooms were built and now they have been converted as galleries to display artifacts and related exhibits. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and cafe to dine in or take away. Furthermore, you can ask for a guidance tour to help paint a clearer picture on the legend and history of this spectacular site.

11. Georgetown Penang

Georgetown is famous for its historical buildings that are influenced by eastern and western properties. It has been listed as the UNESCO World Heritage to preserve the old, historical buildings. One of the many attractions there is the Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion. This mansion was built in the end of 19th century according to the intentions of Feng Shui. It is now acts as a Bed and Breakfast cum museum. The next attraction is Kuan Yin Teng Temple Penang. It is located at the heart of Chinatown. A visit there gives you an experience of Taoism temple.

There are many nearby attractions. It is a must to visit the Gurney Beach Penang, strolling on a long pedestraian pavement. After the sun set, walk to the nearby hawker stalls in Gurney Drive and have a taste of Penang food. There is another place that offers uncountable choices of food with affordable price, New World Park Penang. Do pay a visit to Batu Feringghi which situated around 18km from Georgetown. Tourists often visit the beach there to be mesmerized by the cool breeze and beautiful scenery. The prices for Georgetown hotels are similar to Batu Feringghi Hotels, a little bit pricey compared to Tanjung Bungah hotels

12. Gurney Drive Penang

Gurney Drive Penang is one of the most popular places in Penang. The famous seafront is popular among tourists and too, locals. Redshanks can be seen everywhere, wadding in the water of Gurney Drive Penang. There are also other birds and mudskippers around. Besides the amazing breeze and scenic view, the Gurney Drive Hawker Centre is what attracts tourist as well as locals. They offer a large variety of local delicacies including Asam Laksa, Rojak and much more. Penang Gurney Hotels such as G Hotel and Evergreen Laurel Hotel are situated just opposite the seafront. Not far away from the hotels, you can have a shopping spree in Gurney Plaza Shopping Centre. It is the second largest shopping mall in Penang.

13. Jerejak Island

Jerejak Island is not a develop island and so this island is capable in giving you the tranquility and serenity you desire of as the effect of the hustle and bustle of Penang Main Island. Jerejak Island gained its alias as The Alcatraz of Malaysia because of the prison on the island. It was known as a place for criminals, tuberculosis and leprosy patients back in the day. However, now, it is the island where people stop by to have a peace in mind. It is now well known for its unique flora and fauna as well as its rich history.

There are many activities that can be done there other than enjoying the breeze and nature breath. Outdoor, adventurous activities are what visitors fond of. These include rock climbing, mountain biking, flying fox, guided jungle trekking and many more. A resort named Jerejak Resort and Spa is built and soon it became one of the popular hotels in Penang. All the outdoor activities mentioned and also some water sports activities are arranged by the resort itself to suit the needs and requirements of their customers.

14. Little India Penang

Once you are in Little India Penang, you can hear traditional Indian music playing. Along Market Street (Jalan Pasar), there are many fashion Indian stores. They sell mostly saree, silk and cotton, almost anything that has the essence of India. Apart from the interesting shops with vibrant colors, there are multiple shops selling delicious Indian culinary. The food is affordable and tasty. There are roti canai, thosai, briyani rice, tandoori chicken and more. There, you can experience to taste the food on a banana leaf with your hand and no utensils. Of course, you can request for spoon and forks. They sell fresh coconut juice there too. This is definitely the must-visit place when you step foot in Penang.

15. Penang National Park

The Penang National Park is the smallest national park in the world. It possesses more than 400 flora species and around 143 species of fauna. This national park was declared to preserve the amazing flora and fauna. Besides, it is very unique as it has a meromictic lake, wetlands, mangrove, coral reefs and also beaches for turtle nesting. There are many activities that can be performed in the park such as camping, bird watching and swimming. The mentioned meromictic lake is named Pantai Kerachut and this is what attracts tourists and visitors all over the world. It is not only famous in being a camping site but also with the turtle hatchery. If you are lucky enough, you can spot Green Sea Turtle on the beach, nesting. The next attraction in the park is the lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in the year 1883 and it is accessible through Teluk Duyung.

16. Penang Aquarium Batu Maung

The aquarium has a total of 25 tanks to showcase the large variety of marine life such as surgeon fish, lion fish, blue spotted stingrays and damsels just to name a few. The main attraction of the aquarium is the large tank with the measurement of 15ft by 10ft in one of the room. The room is like a big theatre showcasing big fishes including snappers, huge green turtle, tudung periuk and nyior nyior. Apart from fishes, there are also a display of different types of corals and sea anemones. There are two large ponds in the aquarium which filled with a big school of sprightly koi or carps. Visitors can feed the koi with fish food that is available there for only RM1. Visitors can too, feed the turtles in one of the ponds. Besides, there is a souvenir shop there where you can purchase t-shirts, key chain and etc. The aquarium is opened daily except Wednesdays.

17. Penang Hill

Penang Hill is also known as Bukit Bendera in Malay Language. It is the getaway from the concrete jungle in the hustle bustle of the city of Georgetown. Penang Hill is Malaysia’s first hill station. It was discovered by the legendary Francis Light when he commissioned the area to be cleared for plantation. Most tourists visit the hill as it offers serenity and tranquility with mesmerizing view of Penang and friendly nature. There are quite a number of activities that can be done on Penang Hill. You can spend some time to get a taste of the diversity of Malaysian’s cultures by visiting both mosque and Indian temple on the hill. There is a bird sanctuary and a canopy walk up there too. If you plan to spend a night or two on the amazing hill, there are bungalows available for rent with affordable price.

18. Pinang Peranakan Mansion

The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a showcase or a museum of the legacy of Penang’s Baba and Nyonya. Here, you will have a glimpse of the interesting lifestyle of the Baba and Nyonyas. There are around 1000 pieces of exhibits and antiques displayed. This mansion was originally the home of Kapitan Chung Kee Kwee. The mansion is a typical home for a rich Baba decades and decades ago. Furthermore, this mansion is has been used as a background for the popular Singapore series, Little Nyonya in one of the episodes. The admission fee for adults is RM10 whereas it is free of charge for children who are under the age of 6. Prior arrangement for conducted tour is advised to obtain more information about the mansion and background of the Peranakan.

19. Tanjung Bungah

Tanjung Bungah is used to known as a quiet fishing village, until it is filled with tourists and locals who work in the hotel nearby. Tanjung Bungah Hotels are far more affordable than Batu Feringghi hotels and Georgetown hotels. Penang Water Sports Centre is based in Tanjung Bungah and so, water sports such as kayak and boat are very popular there. One of the tourist’s attractions there is the Penang Toy Museum. It is renowned as the world’s largest toy museum with more than 100,000 toy collections.

Gurney Beach Penang is a resort condominium/apartment that is situated in the prime location of Gurney Drive, near to Tanjung Bungah. Gurney Drive is where you find delicious local delicacies. Crowds filled up the place every night to be spoilt with choices of food. Gurney Plaza Shopping Centre is popular as it is the second largest shopping mall in Penang, right after Queensbay Mal situated in Bayan Lepas.