A complete visit to Penang’s top attractions will most probably take around 4 to 5 days, considering meal stops and longer time at the attractions. It must be mentioned that sightseeing spots are scattered across northern and southern Penang. With an early start, covering the top tourist attractions in a day is possible for those already decided upon.
Penang War Museum is no ordinary museum and one that shouldn’t be pushed aside. Not for the faint-hearted, yet for avid history buffs, this is it. The story of war in Malaysia during the Japanese occupation is revealed here in its raw, original form (THE KILLING FIELDS, CAMBODIA).
The ultimate Penang War Museum has placed Malaysia on the international map. It was featured in the 2013 National Geographic documentary as one of Asia’s most haunted places, and earlier on the History Channel’s Best of Malaysia’s Hidden Cities. In 2015, it became the first war museum in Southeast Asia to join the International WWII Museum Association. Spend at least three hours here, and it becomes clear why Penang War Museum deserves such recognition.
Originally built in the 1930s as a British
fortress to defend against a possible Japanese invasion, the museum is set
within a vast jungle area that can raise goosebumps and stir a sense of fear.
One of the most chilling displays is a guillotine-like structure said to have
been used for executions during the Japanese occupation.
As part of the war adventure, going through the underground tunnels and climbing narrow staircases heightens the experience. For those who dare, the night tour offers another dimension to Penang War Museum.
Penang Toy Museum (Teluk Bahang)
Primarily suited for children accompanied by parents, Penang Toy Museum may
also appeal to anyone who wants to take a nostalgic walk through the toy era.
The entrance fee is on the higher side, so it is worth deciding if it should be
included as part of touring Penang.
Founded by Mr. Loh Lean Cheng, who spent
nearly four decades collecting over 140,000 toys, the Penang Toy Museum has
earned recognition twice in the Malaysia Book of Records as one of the largest
toy museums in the country. It remains a popular Penang attraction, drawing
interest from curiosity and a love for playful, retro collections.
The toys are displayed in closed showcases and on open shelves, in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Classic heroes like Superman, Spider-Man, and Wonder Woman share space with movie characters, while Barbie dolls and other figures appeal to girls. The collections are impressive and can delight children like a playground. Adults, however, may find 20 minutes ample time before stepping out of Penang Toy Museum.
Tropical Spice Garden (Teluk Bahang)
A short drive from Penang Toy Museum leads to Tropical Spice Garden. Nature,
spices, water features, and quiet pathways lined with trees related to spices
make Tropical Spice Garden a must-visit Penang attraction.
Guided tours are available for an
additional fee, but without a guide, visitors can enjoy walking around and
inhaling the fresh air, away from the sun, in the shade. Nature lovers will
find this spice garden in Penang like a herb forest.
Among the 500+ types of tropical plants,
herbs, and spices, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, lemongrass, and many others can be
spotted. Some are listed on informative signboards along the paths, while
others may not be. Water features, giant ferns, bamboo groves, and some rare
plant species are simply spectacular to look at. The area is home to
butterflies, birds, and occasionally monkeys.
Time just passes by, with benches for resting and taking in the surroundings. There is also a small spice museum, and spices can be purchased from the gift shop. Products made with natural ingredients, particularly the lemongrass spray, a natural insect repellent, are available for purchase.
Titi Kerawang Waterfall (Teluk Bahang)
Specifically located along the road connecting Balik Pulau and Teluk Bahang,
Titi Kerawang Waterfall was once a popular spot for swimming and picnicking but
has taken a backseat in recent years due to a significant reduction in water
flow. Despite this, a stop at Titi Kerawang Waterfall is still worth it.
The area can remain quiet, especially during weekdays. Walking in, the fresh air is immediately felt amid the natural surroundings, with water cascading from above and flowing to the lower level. Swimming is still possible, but with caution, or visitors can simply dip their hands and feet at the lower level. Truth be told, it feels refreshing to be at this waterfall in Penang.
Kek Lok Si Temple (Air Itam)
Kek Lok Si Temple in Penang, a historic Buddhist landmark set against a
hillside, is located about 20–25 minutes southeast of Teluk Bahang. Its
towering pagoda and grand statue are easily visible from the main road, making
Kek Lok Si Temple one of the most recognizable attractions in Penang. A visit
can easily take an hour or more, as the temple remains among the island’s most
visited landmarks.
The temple grounds begin at the Pond of
Longevity, home to countless tortoises, before leading up to the Pagoda of Rama
VI. Inside, the Laughing Buddha stands out among the various statues within the
temple halls.
A highlight not to be missed is the
funicular railway to the hilltop, where the massive bronze Kuan Yin statue
rises within an open courtyard, a true symbol of Penang. The gardens
surrounding it, including the Water Pavilion and Zodiac Garden, are also part
of the temple’s grounds.
From the hilltop, the panoramic view of
Penang Island stretches far and wide, a remarkable sight in its own right.
Penang Hill/Bukit Bendera (Air Itam)
Concluding sightseeing in Penang is best done at Penang Hill. As the sun slowly
sets, going up to Penang Hill, which rises over 800 meters above sea level,
reveals nature in its most mesmerizing style. A snapshot of George Town and
beyond, all in one view. Penang Hill is popular for photography, surrounded by
nature and old colonial bungalows. It provides a breather away from the
bustling noise, offering a much-loved nature break.
Visitors can reach the summit by taking
the funicular train from Air Itam or hiking via the Heritage Trail, which takes
about two hours. Whether for the views or the calm surroundings, Penang Hill
remains one of the must-visit spots in Penang, though admiring it from a
distance is also rewarding.
