Located on the Northern part of Peninsular Malaysia, Penang was originally named ‘Pulau Ka Satu’ by a sea trader named Ragam. After the British came, areca palm was much planted here and later it was re-named to Pulau Pinang, literally means ‘Areca Palm Island’.

Also known as the heaven of food, Pulau Pinang or Penang, is a must visit for all food lovers out there. Once you are here, Char Koay Teow would be on top of the food try out list in Penang followed by Assam Laksa, Penang Rojak, Mee Goreng, Nasi Kandar, Cendol, Curry Mee and even Lok Lok. It sounds rather too promising especially for westerner’s who are not used to Asian foods but, these mouth watering dishes from Penang is a definite top best food in our list not only to Penangites but even whole of Malaysians who come to visit Penang on vacations. Try out for yourself our local flavor dishes and let us know what is your opinion about it?

Laksa Penang

Yet, thats not all! As we mentioned the history of Penang with the palm trees, try out an exclusive cycling tours specially designed in the heart of Georgetown, or if the palm trees are not exciting enough, Penang even offer a 2300 hectare National Park with diverse activities such as jungle trekking, fishing, canopy walking, river cruising, visiting Penang Light House, pools for swimming and much more. Of course, we hope you are fit though before committing to such activities. But, it would definitely be worth the try for such an amazing green scenery in Penang. If 2300 Hectare is too much, not to worry!

Alternatively, let’s just visit Penang Hill, located 833m above sea level, the hill stands proudly overlooking Penang Island. Rise early to catch the first train up the hill to catch the sunrise and of course to avoid the crowds. Feel the magical and refreshing ambience whe you are on top of the hill. Rejuvenate yourself from the hustling city noises to the calm fresh air of the greens. Don’t forget to take the map at the counter because there are many landmarks to see including the skywalk, skydeck east & west, heritage post box during the reign of Queen Victoria, Penang Hill Mosque, Sri Aruloli Thirumurugan Temple, El Walk and much more.

Malaysia with nature, beaches and mountains are inseparable. So does Penang! Don’t miss out the opportunity to spend your nights at Batu Feringgi Beach, a long stretch of soft and white sandy beach. During daytime, tryout some water sport activities such as parasailing, jetski’s or just laze in the sun facing the beach. Its all up to you. During night time, stroll along the street of Batu Feringgi and visit the night Bazaar as well. Hop on and off to drink at any of the pubs along the way as it is one of the popular spots for tourists in Penang.

Penang is also one of the unique state in Malaysia due to its tourism. Dine in with the eerie family at the Ghost Museum or even head for street art murals in George Town. The site offers a 3D wall painting interactions which would be much fun for your photo collections. Don’t think that you are too old for anything because as the saying goes,”In every real man a child is hidden that wants to play” (Friedrich Nietzsche).

Of course there are many more places to visit such as Kek Lok Si Temple, Georgetown colonial city, Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Fort Cornwallis, Khoo Khongsi Mansion, Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram and much more. Our suggestion is you just have to come here for yourself to embrace the feeling.

So, when would be the best time to visit Penang? A good time would probably between November to January as the weather is not so wet, liveliest festive seasons of both Christmas & New Year celebration and there would be many tourists coming together.

In addition, don’t forget to also check-out our other destination guide such as Kedah, WP Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak 🙂 Book now with Azuki Tours!