Penang
Penang is a beautiful island off the northwest coast of mainland Malaysia. The island contains some beautiful colonial buildings, as well as a long history of foreign settlements. Like so many places in Asia, Penang owes is modern beginnings to the British East India Company. This was the first such settlement in Malaysia for the British, who sought to push out the Dutch and their spice trade. Back then Penang was known as "Betel Nut Island". Ethnic Chinese eventually followed. Islam was a strong part of the culture.
At less than 11 square miles, this tiny island belies the island's myriad features. There are pretty beaches and quiet fishing villages, as well as a fast-growing information technology center. Georgetown is the main city, and it is a popular take-off point for travelers departing for other islands and parts of Malaysia.
Experiences
A handpicked selection of experiences endorsed by our experts. If you can’t see what you’re looking for, let us know, as our extensive network of local contacts can open many doors.
Beaches
While the beaches are not overwhelmingly beautiful, they provide a nice place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. The most secluded beaches are at Teluk Kampi, Muka Head and Pantai Kerachut. There is an old and charming lighthouse at Muka Head beach.
Butterfly Farm
There is an outstanding collection of tropical butterflies, as well as snakes, scorpions and other dangerous insects.
Food Stalls and Cooking Class
Penang is one of the finest food outposts in all of Malaysia. Wander around Penang's myriad food stalls to sample the area's diverse cuisine, which includes mee sotong (fish-laden noodles), a local delight. Alternatively, why not take a cooking class?
Hiking to a Beach
The beaches of Penang are accessible on foot, if you are interested in hiking between 1-3 hours. For a shortcut, board a sampan fishing boat from Teluk Bahang Village.
Motorbike Tour
Tour Georgetown on two wheels and take in its historic and colonial sites.
Outdoor Sports
Golfing, swimming (especially along the northern coast), surfing, jet skis, parasailing and cycling are all on the menu.
Penang Dragon Boat Festival
The event is held at Teluk Bahang Dam and features teams from Australia, China, Japan, Holland, the Philippines, Thailand, Canada, America and other nations. It has been on-going since 1979. Race dates vary every year.
War Museum
This was a part of a military fortress built by the British Army during the rise of Japan as the 1930s unfolded. It was meant to protect from an attack on the southern flank. The fort was a mini-marvel, featuring underground tunnels, an intelligence and logistics center, offices, bays for firing artillery and an infirmary.
Malaysia Regions
Explore in-depth information, experiences and highlights by navigating to specific regions using the links below on the right.
Peninsular Malaysia
Sabah
Sarawak
Multi-Country Specialists
Malaysia Goes Well With
Why Remote Lands?
Exclusively Asia
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
With Remote Lands you'll travel with people who have made Asia the solitary focus of their own lifelong adventure. As our guest, in the continent that our north American founders Catherine and Jay have adored and explored for decades, you'll discover Asia on a journey that is completely, authentically your own, adapted from our own remarkable experiences and adventures over the years.
Travelogues
An Asia-focused magazine brought to you by Remote Lands - a platform for adventure, luxury, and authenticity from experts and explorers around the continent.
5 Penang Fine Dining Venues you Must Visit
- Author
- Myles Cummings
Malaysia’s famous for its islands and wildlife, but smart travelers know to stop in Penang for some of the finest eats in Southeast Asia.
Inside the Blue Mansion of Penang
- Author
- John McMahon
Cheong Fatt Tze’s Blue Mansion in Penang – recently garnering fame for its role in Crazy Rich Asians – is a blend of cultures, an architectural curiosity, and a luxury hotel in the heart of George Town.
Review: Penang’s Historic Eastern & Oriental Hotel
- Author
- Ronan O'Connell
You may have heard of the luxury train, but you might not have heard of the hotel. The Eastern & Oriental Hotel is a mix of history and luxury on Malaysia’s bumping island getaway of Penang.
What Others Say
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Brothers from Russia
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