What's To See On Penang - whatsonpenang.com

There is so much to see on Penang but not everyone knows where to find it. Here we point you at the tourist attractions and beauty spots that make Penang so unique and that you really shouldn’t miss out on.

Batu Ferringhi Guide – Things to do in Batu Ferringhi

October 20, 2018 By Keith Leave a Comment

Batu Ferringhi, another primary area of Penang other than Georgetown, is filled with tons of attractions and activities. Brought to fame thanks to its strategic location, the beach, means a lot of activities are going to be adrenaline pumping and water involved. Truth be told, not every activity has got to be this tiring. That’s why in this post, we’re going to share with you the ultimate things to do in Batu Ferringhi and other attractions that are not all about beaches. So foodies, are you guys ready?

Things to do in Batu Ferringhi:

Batu Ferringhi Guide Part 1: Start Off with Something Light

Penang Batik Factory

Ever seen those vibrant fabrics printed with bold prints such as leaves and flowers that could be found in almost every corner of Penang? That’s batik, a traditional technique of wax-resist dyeing applied to whole cloth. Set in Teluk Bahang, Penang Batik Factory is one of the pioneers of batik manufacturing on the island offering a wide variety of quality batik, from block prints batiks to hand-drawn pieces. Take a tour here and see how batiks are made and tour around the art gallery. Interested in making one on your own? The factory also offers workshop so you can get hands on experience as well as bringing home your personalised batik.

What's On Penang — Credit: Penang Batik Factory

Address: 669m, Mk. 2, Teluk Bahang 11050 Penang, Malaysia.
Operating Hour: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Tropical Fruit Farm

Tropical Fruit Farm is a 25-acre organic orchard in Penang with more than 250 types of tropical and subtropical fruit trees. This garden aims to conserve rare and exotic fruit trees, which of course includes our icon, the durian tree. The road to here might be a little bumpy and long, but trust me you won’t regret it. The garden conducts daily guided two-hour tours, where you could learn more about the fruits and a chance to sample local produce. At weekends and on public holidays the orchard lays out a spread of light snacks, juices and a barbecue for visitors. So guys, is this worth adding into your things to do in Batu Ferringhi list ?

Address: Jalan Teluk Bahang, 11000 Pulau Pinang.
Operating Hour: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Daily)
Contact: +604-8665168

Batu Ferringhi Night Market

This might be the only night market that offers more goods than food, but hey it’s the best place to spend your night in Batu Ferringhi if you’re tired of staying in the hotel. Local traders will not offer you the best price and sometimes might be a little cut-throat, you have to be good at bargaining. Nevertheless, this is a really good place to polish bargaining skills so that’s why it is one of the must things to do in Batu Ferringhi (xD).

Address: Jalan Pantai Batu, Taman Pantai Batu, 11200 Tanjong Bungah, Pulau Pinang.
Operating Hour: 7 p.m.-12 a.m. (Daily)

Batu Ferringhi Gude Part 2: Time to Sweat Out and Have Some Fun

Penang National Park

Being the world’s smallest national park, it is a pleasant enough place with a waterfall and a pool for a pleasant swim. There are a lot of activities that could be done such as jungle walks, canopy walk, fishing and sunbathing on quiet, golden-sand beaches. Bear in mind that this place is like a maze, with each path bringing you to different beautiful destinations such as the Monkey Beach, Pantai Kerachut, Muka Head and more. So be sure to check out for the map to avoid getting lost.

Address: Pejabat Taman Negara P. Pinang, Jalan Hassan Abbas, Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang, 11050 Pulau Pinang.
Operating Hour: 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (Daily)

Beach Activities: Water Sports

Penang Water Sport Recreation Centre (Pusat Kegiatan Sukan Air (PKSA)) is the place for those who wants to go for kayaking. Located just beyond the Tanjung Bungah Floating Mosque, kayaks can be rented by groups of up to ten people on walk-in and must be booked beforehand by groups of ten or more. With the price of just RM 15 per person per hour, this is definitely a steal !

Address: Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11200, Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang.
Operating Hour: (Mon-Fri) 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m.–6 p.m.
(Sat&Sun) 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m., 2 p.m.–6 p.m.
Contact: +604-890-9373

For other more touristy water sports such as banana boat and speedboat ride, jet skis and parasailing, just walk along the beach of Tanjong Bungah and Batu Ferringhi. It is easy to recognize a small shack advertising all these activities.To be honest,these activities are quiet pricey but can’t be had anywhere else and they’re still far below the average prices for beach water sports around the world. Most importantly is to have fun isn’t it?

Beach Activities: On the Sandy Beach

Yaasss we just have to include this because where else can you get a horse ride in Penang? Not to even mention it’s on a beach. Get a horse ride at the Batu Ferringhi Beach, if you don’t know where, just head over to Starbucks Batu Ferringhi, get in there and you’ll find yourself at the beach. What’s more? They even have camel and donkey ride !!

Batu Ferringhi Guide Part 3: Unwind and Chill

Penang Sky Tour

Okay, this is very exciting, a new addition to the attractions in Penang, something super special! Helicopter tour around Penang? Impossible and sounds crazy right? We’re glad to announce that this is not a dream now thanks to Penang Sky Tour. Located just beside Bayview Beach Hotel on an empty ground, you can now have a bird’s eye view of Penang on a helicopter ride. The view up there is so spectacular, overlooking Penang Bridge, Komtar Tower, Kek Lok Si Temple and more depending on the route you choose. Get a ride before sunset for the best view, we tried it out and the experience left us speechless, it’s like once in a lifetime opportunity.

Address: 365, Seksyen 1, Batu Ferringhi, Penang, Malaysia.
Operating Hour: 10 a.m.- 6:30 p.m. (Daily)

Moonlight Bay

Another “beach” in Batu Ferringhi, it’s a hidden gem. Unlike other beaches where the sands are fine and soft to the feet, Moonlight Bay is covered with pebbles, a bit spiky to the feet, but still bearable. Away from the crowd, this place is quiet, clean and relaxing. The water is definitely a lot clearer and blue compared to the Batu Ferringhi Beach. This place is perfect for couples and as a picnic spot.

Address: Jalan Moonlight Bay, 11100 Batu Ferringhi, Pulau Pinang.

Batu Ferringhi Guide Part 4: The Last Resort

This is the very last part of our guide, after having so much fun, it’s time to settle down and have a good rest. Here, we’ll recommend you five best hotels with different pricing.

fLone Pine Hotel

lone pine hotel penang — Lone Pine Hotel Penang

One of our favourite hotels in Batu Ferringhi, Lone Pine is Batu Ferringhi’s only luxury boutique hotel in Penang. Renewed and rejuvenated after a lovingly undertaken restoration, Penang’s favorite beach side boutique resort reopened its doors refreshed in design and facilities, but still infused with the same colonial spirit and idyllic charm with a touch of English style and surrounded by garden and beach. Lone Pine offers something for everyone, from cozy rooms to spacious suites opening out onto seafront terraces, balconies or private courtyards.

Address: 97 Batu Ferringghi, Batu Feringgi, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.

Roomies Suites

Located in Eden Parade, the building might look old, creepy and unappealing. Believe us, don’t be fooled by its exterior. Roomies Suites is a contemporary boutique hotel with style and comfort at a great value. Complimentary breakfast and super fast wifi is available for each room, plus the beach is only within walking distance.

Address: 76C -4 Jalan Batu Feringghi, 11100 Batu Feringghi, Penang.

Double Tree Resort by Hilton Penang

Set in the dynamic northern beach area of Penang away from the center of Batu Ferringhi, Double Tree is a new hotel that takes up the previous Hydro Hotel. The four star hotel offers 316 rooms and suites, many features feature a private furnished balcony and partial or full sea views. The hotel is not built on the beach, but don’t worry, there’s a bridge that’s linked to the bridge.

Address: 56, Jalan Low Yat Batu Ferringhi, Penang,11100, Malaysia.

Lost Paradise Resort

For those who wish to fully experience an island life, Lost Paradise Resort is the place to stay. A hidden gem, shrouded and nestled in the verdant green filled with exotic local botany. Interiors are inspired from all around the globe, with heavy arts of India. Here, you can enjoy peace and serenity, as it is tucked away from the hustle and bustle.

Address: 262, Jalan Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Tanjung Bungah, Pulau Pinang.

Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa

Set on Batu Feringgi Beach on 12 hectares of tropical gardens, this upscale beach resort is one of the most expensive hotels you can find in the island. Sophisticated rooms feature balconies with water, pool or garden views, while posh suites add living rooms and dining areas; some offer marble bathrooms. This hotel is the exact definition of luxury, a place for Gred A service and comfort.

Address: Batu Feringgi Main Road, Jalan Batu Feringgi, 11100 Batu Feringgi, Pulau Pinang.

Feeling A Bit Wiser Now?

There are so many more things that you could do and enjoy in Batu Ferringhi, not just beaches and hotels. Of course, the beach does play an important role and it’s fun. Now that you foodies know so much more about Batu Ferringhi, get yourself here to experience yourself the excitement we’re sharing with you. Don’t forget to add all these attractions and activities into your things to do in Batu Ferringhi list.

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City Hall

February 13, 2016 By Keith Leave a Comment

Colonial Penang is best imagined through its period Victorian architecture and none come finer than the City hall completed in 1903. Located on the Esplanade facing Penang’s historic field, Padang Kota, where today festivals and large-scale gatherings are still to be found. Today, City Hall is home to the Penang Municipal Council meetings.

Clock Tower

February 11, 2016 By Keith Leave a Comment

The Clock Tower is another colonial reminder of the British Empire and the importance of Penang. Built to commemorate the Diamond Jubilee in the reign of Queen Victoria in 1897, the Clock Tower was a gift to the British authorities from a local Millionaire, Cheah Chen Eok. In line with local Islamic architecture the Moorish influenced design with a minaret-like appearance from afar, is a famous local landmark.

Komtar

February 11, 2016 By Keith Leave a Comment

A far more modern and prominent landmark is the Kopleks Tun Abdul Razak (KOMTAR) which houses government departments, commercial offices, department stores and restaurants. This 65-storey complex also houses theatres, squash courts and a dome covered multi-purpose hall. On the 55th floor can be found a panoramic view of the city and on a clear day as far as Gunung Jerai in the mainland state of Kedah.

SnakeTemple

February 11, 2016 By Keith Leave a Comment

Snake Temple

Built in 1805 in the memory of the renowned Chinese monk Chor Soo Kong, the Snake Temple is situated in the small town of Bayan Lepas and is famous for the fact that it has pit vipers living on the temple ground. Legend has it, that Chor Soo Kong, who was also a healer, gave shelter to the snakes of jungle. After the completion of the temple, snakes appeared on their own accord. Today the snake population of the Temple of the Azure Cloud is very small, due to the urbanization of the area, but you can still see them coiled up on the altar tables, and touch them if you are brave enough. Originally the snakes were said to be rendered inoffensive by the smell of the incenses, but just for good measure, today the resident vipers are devenomed.

History

The origins of snake temples and snake worship go back thousands of years. According to the Columbia Encyclopedia, the snake represented many things to different religions – he was Apollo (the moon god) to the Grecians or Ra (the sun god) to the Egyptians.

The snake has also been variously described as a phallic deity, as a solar deity and as a god of death. The ancient Toltec and Aztec peoples worshiped a colourful feathered serpent called Quetzalcoatl, a half-divine, half-human being who was the great teacher of mankind.

In the field of medicine, the staff of Aesculapius with a coiled serpent became the traditional symbol of medicine and healing. It is told in Genesis that Moses held up a bronze serpent on a staff to cure the Jews of snakebite.

Closer to home, the Hindus, Burmese and Siamese people worshiped the snake as a demon who also had good aspects. The present-day worship of Krishna and Vishnu includes elements borrowed from primitive Hindu snake cults. The shedding of the snake’s skin is interpreted by Buddhists as a form of regenerative power.

In China the serpent assumes the form of a dragon, a mythical being which is both fierce yet protective. In Penang, the so-called snake temple was actually built to honour a human deity – the snakes appeared soon after completion of the building.

Snake_Temple_Penang — Front View Penang Snake Temple

Beginings

A monk journeying to Penang from China in the 1800s had in his possession the statue of a famous deity called Cheng-Swee Chor-Soo or Chor Soo Kong, whose name means “an eminent historic figure who is continuously revered by a community generation after generation”.

The monk also brought with him myths and legends of this particular deity’s power in healing sickness and granting favours to believers. Thus when British resident David Brown (owner of Glugor Estate) heard of this deity and was subsequently cured of an illness in 1873 after praying to him, he donated a tract of land so a temple may be built in homage of the deity who healed him. It is on this land which the Snake Temple has stood for over a century.

The architecture of the temple is a design commonly found in Southern China. Three dimensional sculptures constructed using a technique knows as Chien Nien (cut and paste) from shards of coloured porcelain decorate the roof.

Legend has it that after the temple was built, snakes from the surrounding forest mysteriously appeared in the building. Sensing this phenomenon as a good omen, the monk immediately gave shelter to the snakes and allowed them to take up residence in the sacred halls. They were even allowed to breed. A 600 pound bell made in China during the Manchurian Dynasty (1886) still hangs in the main hall.It is rung on the 1st and 15th days of every month of the Chinese calendar to invite the denizens of heaven and hell to pray.

Penang Little Street Market

November 1, 2011 By Keith Leave a Comment

Well, this was my first visit to Little Penang Street Market and I was totally amazed at the range and quality of everything on offer. The music was exceptional and it was a great afternoon out in the blazing sun.

Plenty of food on offer and we had to buy some of the exceptional herb plants on offer at the Urban Gardens stall run by James Rozells and the quality of Mark Halls photography deserves a mention to say the least. He captures Georgetown Heritage architecture like nobody else I have seen.

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Penang Hill

October 7, 2010 By Keith Leave a Comment

Penang Hill

Penang

Penang Hill is one of the oldest colonial hill station established by the British during their time in Malaysia. Explored in the late 18th century, a horse trail was cut by the Waterfall Gardens (present day Penang Botanic Gardens) to the summit of the hilly spine of Penang, allowing the British to escape from the chaos of George Town to the cooler climate on the hill.

Penang Hill comprises several hills including Strawberry Hill, Halliburton’s Hill, Flagstaff Hill, Government Hill , Tiger Hill,and Western Hill. The highest point of this range is at Western Hill, with an elevation of 833m (2,723ft )above sea level. The range also serves as the largest water catchment area on the island, and a number of tributaries to major rivers in Penang.

The earliest mode of transport to the hill was via horses, or a system called ‘doolies’, where masters were carried up the hill on special sedan chairs. To further explore the potential of the hill, systems of bridle paths were cut by Indian penal servitude prisoners for the establishment of more bungalows on the hill.

The Penang Hill Funicular Railway was the second mode of transport established for access to the summit. The first railway was constructed in 1901 and completed in 1905 but was rendered useless, due to technical faults. A second railway was commissioned in 1909, and works for the second line started in 1914 with a budget of 1.5 million Straits Dollars. On 1st January 1924, the 2,007m long funicular railway was officially opened by then Governor of Straits Settlement, Sir L.N.Guillemard. The last upgrade was in 1977, before a complete overhaul of the system in 2010.

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

October 7, 2010 By Keith Leave a Comment

Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion

This turn of the century Mansion was built in 1890 by the most influential foreign merchant of his time who came from from Nanying, China. Moving to Penang he went on to develop his empire of shipping, opium and mining in South East Asia.

This truly amazing house is a fusion of east-west architecture with distinct European styling and stained glass windows with a real feel from its Chinese roots. The house could be said to epitomize the cultural blend of Penang. Today the house is open as a museum for visitors to get a glimpse of a bygone era and learn more about Cheong’s history through its antiques and paraphernalia on display.

Khoo Kongsi

October 7, 2010 By Keith Leave a Comment

Khoo Kongsi

Kongsi means clan or family group which in the wider interpretation would include professional, family or place of origin association. Each group (Kongsi) would build a communal meeting hall with dwellings in a single compound for security and substitute kinship for the families and friends left behind in China.

The Khoo Kongsi became the most famous of these communities due to its splendour when it was originally built. Unfortunately, the original Kongsi burnt to the ground almost as soon as it was completed. Upon the rebuilding the splendor was apparently scaled back somewhat and the impressive Kongsi we see today must have been stunning in its original glory. Khoo Kongsi features a magnificent hall embellished with extraordinarily intricate carvings and richly ornamented beams of the finest wood, each bearing the mark of the master craftsman from China who created these works of art.