Explore Penang

Penang’s streets weave, often oneway, through the eclectic array of new and old buildings, giving Penang a chaotic but charming feel. Beaches, resorts, markets and malls; this place has everything. Georgetown, with its street art, galleries and cafes, is a favourite of mine.

We grabbed a berth at Straits Quay Marina, a large modern area with a shopping mall, bars, restaurants and cafes. It is easy to get to Georgetown, and other places, by bus from the marina (see travel notes below).

We caught a bus to Georgetown and hired a bike for the duration of our stay in Penang. The following day we decided to cross the Penang Bridge – 13.5km long – to the mainland for a look around and returned via the ‘Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shan Bridge’ – hows that for a mouthful! The ‘Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shan Bridge’ is 24km long and is the longest bridge in Southeast Asia. We did a massive 200km ride that day before returning to our comfy air-conditioned abode! Have I forgotten to mention Dwayne bought himself an air-con in Johor!

The Diversity of Georgetown

We spent a few days exploring Georgetown’s ‘little India’, colonial buildings and the incredible street art. Little India was full of ‘Bollywood’ music, colourful saris and the aroma of pungent curries. A few streets over, Armanien Street was a contrast with its Chinese lanterns, trishaws, arts, crafts, and souvenir shops, complete with a gaggle of tourists on bicycles.

Street Art

The street art is remarkable and is a great way to see Georgetown as you walk around trying to find it all. Pictured are some of my favourites. Click here to read more about Penang’s Street Art.

Wrought Iron Artwork 

Scattered throughout the streets of Georgetown are amusing caricatures titled Marking Georgetown. Installed in 2013 and blending humorous illustrations with historical facts, these metal structures describe the early settlement of Georgetown.

Chew Jetty

A living heritage community, Chew Jetty is the largest waterfront settlement in Penang. Established in the mid 19th Century, it is the only clan jetty left that continues to observe the annual worship of its Temple Deity and the Jade Emperor.

It is very touristy, however, with souvenir shops and little else to see now. In our travels, Dwayne and I have been lucky enough to visit villages built over the water which remain little touched by today’s modern standards. Chew Jetty was a disappointment but still a pleasant stroll and an exciting place to purchase your souvenirs.

Kek Lok Si Temple

Located at Air Itam, Kek Lok Si is a Buddhist temple. We discovered it whilst riding around trying to find the Penang Hill Station. It is said to be the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, and with a massive statue in an equally colossal pavilion, it certainly is impressive. The bronze statue of Guanyin is 36.57 metres tall (120 ft).

Penang Hill 

We took the funicular from Penang Hill Station to the top of Penang Hill. The views are impressive, and the hill is home to picturesque historical buildings and monuments.

We went for a walk, visiting the temple and mosque before finding ourselves at a fence of hearts and padlocks. We walked a path through a forest and saw dusky leaf monkeys. They are so cute.

Our next stop – Langkawi

For more about Penang – 11 Free Things to do in Penang & Must-see Penang Street Art