The attractions you can cover depend on how long you stay in Penang. As attractions are spread out across different parts of the island, covering all at one go may not be possible. Therefore, you’ll probably return to Penang once or twice again to include the rest of the sightseeing spots.
For those who prefer more than the usual touristy stops, Penang offers iconic natural attractions. After all, nature is the best healing for modern stress. Apart from nature, Penang’s historical landmarks, adventure spots, and fun activities also make up what the island truly offers (THINGS TO DO IN KRABI & PHUKET).
Planning your itinerary is vital, as sightseeing spots in Penang can be located across the northern and southern areas. With an early start and time set aside for meals, it’s possible to cover the key tourist destinations in one day.
The entrance fee to the Penang Toy Museum is on the higher side, so it’s worth deciding if it fits your travel plans. For those who do visit, the museum is sure to bring a smile, stirring up memories of childhood. Unless you already own some of the items displayed, seeing the vast collection, some tucked behind mirrors, others in bold colors and impressive sizes, is quite a nostalgic experience. From Superman to Spiderman, Wonder Woman to Barbie dolls, and many more, the museum showcases a wide range of characters.
Founded by Mr. Loh Lean Cheng, who spent nearly four decades collecting over 140,000 toys, Penang Toy Museum has earned recognition twice in the Malaysia Book of Records as one of the largest toy museums in the country. It continues to attract visitors, often out of curiosity and a love for all things playful and retro.
Very close to the Toy Museum, Tropical Spice Garden is just a few minutes’ drive away. Skip the guided tour, which costs more. Honestly, there’s no need for one unless there’s particular interest in the detailed history of the herbs, plants, and trees in the garden. Just pay the standard walk-in fee (Adult-Malaysian or foreign: RM 28, Child: RM 15) and walk into this forest-like spice garden.
Among the 500+ types of tropical plants,
herbs, and spices, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, lemongrass, and many others are
easily spotted. Informative signboards along the path serve as a helpful guide.
Water features, giant ferns, bamboo groves, and even some rare plant species
enhance the landscape (BERGEN NORWAY SIGHTSEEING). The garden is also home to butterflies, birds, and
occasionally monkeys.
The lush greenery and serene atmosphere often make time pass without notice, you might just want to stay longer. Before leaving, stop by the small spice museum and the gift shop selling spice-related products. Even without making a purchase, it's a great way to learn what can be made from herbs and spices. One product that might catch your attention is attention is the lemongrass spray, a natural insect repellent.
Just slightly inland from the Spice Garden is Titi Kerawang Waterfall. As soon as you start walking the trail, the fresh air and cool breeze can be felt, an indication of the pure, chilly waters surrounded by lush nature. It’s generally safe to swim or dip, especially in the shallow, calmer spots near the lower pool, which is easily accessible. However, heading further up can be challenging. Watch your step even if the ground isn’t wet or slippery, and after rain, be mindful in the water, as the current can be strong.
Kek Lok Si Temple (Air Itam)
About 20–25 minutes southeast of Teluk Bahang is Kek Lok Si Temple, a historic
Buddhist landmark nestled against a hillside. The temple’s towering pagoda and
grand statue are clearly visible from the main road, an unmistakable sight.
It’s one of Penang’s top attractions and can easily take up an hour or more of
your time.
Start at the Pond of Longevity, where
tortoises gather, then explore the Pagoda of Rama VI. Inside the temple
complex, you’ll find various statues, including the iconic Laughing Buddha.
Take the funicular railway to reach the hilltop section, where the giant bronze statue of Kuan Yin stands in an open space. Around it, the garden features include the Water Pavilion and Zodiac Garden. Before heading back, be sure to stand at the edge of the open area, this spot offers a panoramic view of Penang Island.
Even if you don’t go up Penang Hill, its appeal is hard to miss. Sitting over 800 meters above sea level, it offers wide, beautiful views of George Town and beyond, no wonder it often appears in travel photos. With old colonial bungalows, lots of greenery, and cool air, it’s a nice break from the heat below.
You can take the funicular train from Air Itam to the top, or if you’re up for it, hike up via the Heritage Trail, about two hours through nature. At the top, one of the highlights is the well-kept garden, great for a peaceful walk or taking photos. Whether for the views or the calm surroundings, Penang Hill is still one of the must-visit spots in Penang, even if you just admire it from a distance.
Located in the southeast of Penang Island, about 40–45 minutes from Penang Hill, the Penang War Museum is one of the top attractions in the area. It has gained worldwide attention, featured in a 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 (THE KILLING FIELDS CAMBODIA).
The visit can easily take up to three
hours. Once you've explored it fully, you’ll understand why it deserves all the
recognition.
Originally built in the 1930s as a British
fortress to defend against a possible Japanese invasion, the museum today
preserves wartime stories through detailed exhibits. The area is large and
surrounded by jungle, which can feel eerie. One of the most chilling displays
is a guillotine-like structure said to have been used for executions during the
Japanese occupation, standing near it can give you an uneasy feeling. You’ll
also experience the underground tunnels and climb narrow staircases, often
needing your phone light to see.
There’s so much to see, it may leave you speechless. For those brave enough, there are also night tours available.
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