Penang is an iconic city and UNESCO World Heritage site, making it an absolute joy to wander its charming streets and admire its colonial architecture.

There are many attractions to discover here, such as the clan jetties – houses on wooden plank walkways belonging to different Chinese clans – or Kapitan Keling mosque. Both offer stunning architectural marvels not to be missed. Hong Kong to Penang flights come from Cathay Pacific.

Chew Clan Jetty

Penang’s famous Clan Jetties offer visitors an unforgettable experience, comprising traditional overwater settlements housing various Chinese clans since the mid-1800s. Dating back to this period, each community still remains well preserved today with Chew Clan Jetty being especially popular with visitors, home to multiple temples and wooden walkways offering plenty of photo opps for Kodak moments!

Each jetty bears the name of a different Chinese clan and each community has their own temple. In the late 19th century, clan jetties often served as battlegrounds between various immigrant groups for control over local resources – today they still provide living quarters for members of Yeoh, Lim, Tan, Lee and Koay clans who call Weld Quay home.

Though water villages have proven resilient over the decades, they now face unique challenges associated with mass tourism. While most of their jetty houses remain in good condition, some lack basic amenities like electricity and waste disposal systems.

To preserve these heritage sites, tourists are encouraged to be responsible when visiting and photographing. Shoes should also not be worn when walking along jetty walkways as this could cause any unnecessary damage.

The Chew Clan Jetty can be easily reached on Weld Quay by foot, taxi, or the Penang Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus. Additionally, nearby shops and restaurants sell snacks, souvenirs, and trinkets; admission to this attraction is free – be sure to catch its night scene when all houses light up!

Penang Hill

Penang Hill has long been the subject of poets, artists, and historians for its lush greenery, drawing them in to appreciate its history and cultural landmarks. Now a heritage trail project in partnership with Penang Hill Railway (PHR) aims to foster that interest through cultivating interest in its rich history as well as that of PHR itself.

Night views and dining experiences on the peak are sure to create an unforgettable experience, whether you’re on a romantic retreat or spending quality time with loved ones. Visit David Brown’s Restaurant or Sky Terrace to enjoy delectable culinary treats while taking in stunning panoramic scenery; alternatively opt for a guided tour that highlights historic sites like Langur Way Canopy Walk (230m long), Curtis Crest Tree Top Walk (170m long), Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple & Monkey Cup Garden (2 km away).

An unforgettable trip to Penang Hill would not be complete without experiencing its heritage-listed funicular train! One of the oldest funicular systems worldwide, this Swiss-designed railway offers a spectacular sightseeing experience through lush greenery. Also on offer: an opportunity to spot rare wildlife such as cheeky dusky leaf monkeys and black giant squirrels!

Before the railroad was constructed, people climbed Penang Hill either on foot or by riding a Sumatran pony. Wealthy individuals employed labourers to carry them on sedan chairs decorated with flowers and leaves – which now forms one of the primary modes of travel up Penang Hill! Nowadays however, funiculars are one of the more convenient means of ascending or descending Penang Hill!

Khoo Kongsi Temple

Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi () is an impressive Chinese clan house and temple situated right in George Town! A UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 650 years of history dating back to Sin Kang village of Hokkien Province in China where many Khoos migrated before eventually migrating further south – among five prominent clans that formed part of Penang’s Hokkien community, Khoo Kongsi formed part of this core.

Khoos were one of the wealthiest clan associations in Northern Malaysia and built an extravagant clan house to commemorate their success in 1906 – this Khoo Kongsi temple also serves as a place for their patron deities and ancestral worship.

Even after it had been destroyed by lightning, the Khoos quickly rebuilt a scaled-down version of this lavish temple. The original house featured intricate carvings and elaborate decorations; in its place was built an educational hall; this has since become an integral part of their clan association; young clansmen are given scholarships so that they may excel in their chosen field of study.

Khoo Kongsi Temple is widely revered for its beautiful interior and spiritual activities such as prayers and offerings, visitors should dress properly when entering and follow rules of conduct when entering. Mobile phones should also remain silent inside to not disrupt those praying there. Open daily from 9am-5pm, it is ideal to visit early in the morning so you can witness sunrise.

Tanjung Bungah Beach

Penang is an irresistibly captivating destination that has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to historic cultural landmarks and affordable guesthouses. To help maximize the pleasure of your journey, we’ve put together this list of Penang’s finest places to stay!

Tanjung Bungah Beach boasts white sand and clear waters, offering visitors an idyllic environment for taking relaxing strolls along the coast or engaging in watersport activities. Furthermore, this destination doesn’t draw as many crowds than other popular beaches nearby, making it perfect for those seeking peace and serenity in their relaxation time.

Tanjung Bungah Beach was home to two swimming clubs; one was originally patronized by members of RAF and RAAF service personnel and is still quite popular today, both among tourists as well as locals alike.

Air Itam Dam offers those seeking more adventure a thrilling kayaking or running experience. Additionally, this site serves as the host for the annual Penang Bridge Run which attracts professional and amateur runners from around the globe.

Penang National Park provides the ideal setting to escape the hectic city life and relax, boasting jungle trails, a waterfall, and many species of wildlife – as well as being great for hiking and photography of nature.

Though located a bit out of George Town, the park still warrants a visit. Home to various plant species – some protected by government – this park houses them all!

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

The Blue Mansion in Penang is widely considered Malaysia’s cultural heritage gem and should not be missed when visiting. Built by Hakka Chinese migrant Cheong Fatt Tze in 1880 as his extravagant passion project, this breathtaking structure stands as testament to Cheong Fatt Tze’s grandeur and passion for luxury. He made his fortune trading rubber, coffee, and tea products late 19th century while building lavish mansions across Southeast Asia; including Singapore, Indonesia, and China but Leith Street’s The Blue Mansion stands out among them all as his finest achievement.

This magnificent building houses 38 rooms, 5 granite courtyards and 220 windows – designed with great attention paid to Feng Shui principles – that ensure positive energies flow freely throughout every space in its design. In addition, a stately collection of antiques and heirlooms add a sense of grandeur and royalty, giving this exquisite structure its grandeur and royal air.

Our guide Teri shared many fascinating details about the man responsible for this opulent building: an influential business mogul, social activist and diplomat with an incredible rise from poverty to riches – truly inspirational! She also highlighted the meticulous process involved in restoring this architectural masterpiece which took six years under Lawrence Loh’s supervision as an advocate of Penang heritage history who played an instrumental role in making sure this project brought forth results that put the Blue Mansion back on the map.

As it stood when purchased by a group of conservationists in 1989, this mansion was on its way towards disrepair. But thanks to them, it has been preserved and turned into a boutique hotel which now operates under Samadhi Retreats management. And in 2016, its beauty was further enhanced when Laurence Loh himself designed an Oriental Garden to add extra charm.