Penang is a highly developed island and one of the biggest cities in Malaysia. However, the cool thing about Penang is that it’s never too far from nature, with many fun outdoor activities in Penang, even while admiring the arts and sights in Georgetown.

Only a short drive away, you won’t even recognize you’re on the same island because there are so many places with such beautiful greenery and serenity. You remember the stunning beaches located throughout the busy island.

A lot of the west coast of Penang island is still undeveloped, so you can visit different fruit farms and enjoy the abundance of Penang outdoor activities. The best part is that you can enjoy these outdoor activities all year round because of Penang’s tropical climate!

So whether you’re looking for a stroll through a forest Reserve or an adrenaline-pumping adventure like rock climbing, there’s something for everyone looking for outdoor activities in Penang.

 

 

Outdoor Activities in Penang to Keep You Active in Malaysia

Penang is a beautiful Malaysian state known for its beaches and delicious food. However, there is so much more to do in Penang than just eating! If you are looking for an adventure, look no further than Penang’s many outdoor activities.

From hiking to caving to diving, there is something for everyone in a particular part of Malaysia.

 

Waterfalls in Penang

When it comes to Penang’s outdoor activities, one of the most beautiful things to see is the waterfalls, and Penang has quite a few. While the waterfalls are not large or majestic in any way, they are still a soothing spectacle. 

The Titi Kerawang Falls is located on the island’s west coast, near the small town of Tanjung Bungah and within walking distance from Entopia Butterfly Farm. The falls are about 100 meters from the main road, and a path leads you there. The falls are named after the Malaysian word for “butterfly,” which is fitting given their proximity to the Entopia Butterfly Farm.

The falls are open to the public and offer a beautiful natural setting for visitors to enjoy. The falls are best visited during the rainy season when they are at their fullest. However, they can be enjoyed year-round. Visitors should take care when walking around the falls, as the rocks can be slippery.

 

 

Another waterfall in Penang is the Bayan Lepas Waterfall, located just outside Bayan Lepas’s town. The waterfall has a height of just about 5 meters, and it flows down smooth rocks into a pool where swimming is possible. The local waterway department has developed and beautified the area around the waterfall. A bridge crosses the cascades, and the water bank has been paved so vehicles can enter and exit. There is also a wooden pavilion where you can picnic while enjoying the waterfall scenery. 

Finally, the biggest waterfall is located in Penang Botanical Gardens. The Botanic Gardens Waterfall is within the Penang waterworks department, so it remains a restricted area where access is controlled. It used to be one of the most famous waterfalls in Malaysia. However, because of the waterworks department, you need to seek approval from the authorities to go to this waterfall. It was established in 1910 and is a sight people should try and see. 

A list of waterfalls to see in Penang:

• Titi Kerawang Falls
• Bayan Lepas Waterfall
• Botanic Gardens Waterfall
• Batu Ferringhi Iron Waterfall

 

 

 

 

Penang Hill

Penang Hill was one of the first colonial hill stations developed in Peninsular Malaysia. It was discovered soon after British settlement when Francis Light commissioned the area to be cleared to grow strawberries. You can see the mountains of Langkawi on a clear day. However, the sight of a lit-up Georgetown is also pretty great at night.

The hike is excellent for most people because they can enjoy the cool, unpolluted air with multiple nature trails. There is also a 220m walkway suspended between towering trees and 30m about the dense jungle that offers excellent hillside views. There are also about 100 species of birdlife, ranging from common garden species to exotic deep forest inhabitants. 

 

 

One of the Penang Hill attractions you must visit is Habitat. Habitat Penang Hill is a Rainforest that opened in 2011. The Rainforest comprises six zones within the tourist attraction with over 500m of forest walks, including the Canopy, Mangrove, and Stream zones. The Canopy zone has a suspension bridge which is the longest in peninsular Malaysia. The Mangrove zone has a boardwalk that takes you through the mangroves, and the Stream zone has a series of waterfalls. If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try the zip line that goes from one end of the park to the other. 

The Penang Hill Railway is also the most popular way to get to the top of the hill. It is located at the foot of the hill, is one of the world’s oldest train systems and has a 2,007m-long track that takes about 30 minutes to get to the top. As much as it is a relatively long trip, it takes you through wonderful greenery and bungalows built initially for British officials and other wealthy citizens. 

Another way up to the top is by a 5 km drive up a private road that is only accessible to vehicles of hillside residents. However, you can also take the road if you pay a certain fee. There is also a well-marked 8 km path that leads up from Moon Gate at the Botanical Gardens, it takes about 1 hour, but it is a pleasant walk with plenty of places to rest along the way. 

Best attractions to visit on Penang Hill:

• Habitat
• Penang Hill Railway
• The 8 km path from Moon Gate at the Botanical Gardens.
• Earthquake & Typhoon Pavilion
• Hindu Temple Penang Hill 
• Masjid Bukit Bendera

 

 

 

Penang National Park

The Penang national park consists of both land and sea. It is used by scientists, researchers, and nature lovers to explore its natural treasures.

The park was once known as Pantai Acheh Forest Reserve and is home to about 417 different flora and 143 different fauna species. It is located at the northwestern tip of Penang island and was declared a national park in April 2003. The national park is the first protected area under Malaysia’s National Park Act of 1980 and was established to preserve and protect flora and fauna. 

 

 

There are two beaches in the national park; Monkey beach and Turtle beach. There are two ways to get to both coasts. You can hike for about an hour and a half to get the Monkey beach, and while that is the scenic route, it is a long hike. The other way to get there is by taking a boat, depending on the boat driver; one method can range from around 50RM-70RM. Word of advice is to find a group to join the expense together. 

These are just a few natural things you can do while in Penang. There are many nature trails as well if you are an avid hiker. But all in all, Penang is one place where you can enjoy the best of both worlds; nature and city life.

As of November 1, 2022, the entrance fee for the National Park is 50rm. With some of the disrupted paths and infrastructure, the prices would be welcomed for the park, which is quite beautiful with the maintenance needed. 

Best Places to visit in Penang National Park:

• Monkey beach
• Turtle Beach
• Nature trails
• Muka Head Lighthouse
• Lazy Boys Campsite

 

 

 

Entopia Butterrfly Park

Location:

Teluk Bahang, Penang – Opening hours 9 am – 6 pm (daily)

Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is one of the best places to visit for family fun. They have an indoor and outdoor section with over 15,000 live butterflies from more than 150 species. The outdoor area also has a Cocoon Cafe where you can relax and drink while surrounded by nature.

The indoor section has three main parts: The Discovery Centre, The Emergence Gallery, and The Cocoon Room. In the Discovery Centre, you will learn about the life cycle of a butterfly and see pupae hatching into butterflies.

 

 

In the Emergence Gallery, butterflies emerge from their chrysalises and take their first flights. In the Cocoon Room, you can see how caterpillars spin their cocoons and watch as silk is made. Entopia is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn about butterflies and experience family fun.

Entopia Butterfly Park is located in Teluk Bahang, about 30 minutes away from Georgetown by car. If you are taking public transportation, you can take the 101 or 102 Rapid Penang bus from Georgetown to Teluk Bahang. The entrance fee for adults is 30RM, and for children (3-12 years old), it is 20RM.

What to expect:

• Over 15,000 live butterflies from more than 150 species
• A butterfly farm and museum all in one
• An indoor and outdoor section
• A Cocoon Cafe

 

 

 

Penang Bird Park

The Penang Bird Park is a must-see attraction for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers. Situated across the ways in Butterworth, the park is home to more than 300 birds from over 100 species. The birds can roam around the park, and visitors can get close to them.

 

 

There are also regular feeding times when you can feed the birds. Bird Park is a great place to learn about different species of birds and their behaviours. It’s also lovely to relax and soak up the natural surroundings; you’ll fall in love with the different types of flamingos.

The Penang Bird Park is an excellent place for bird watching, and it is also a good place to learn about different bird species. The park is open every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the entrance fee is 20RM for adults and 10RM for children (3-12 years old).

What to expect:

• More than 300 birds from over 100 different species
•  A chance to get up close to the birds
• Feeding times
• Bird watching

 

 

 

Tropical Spice Garden

The Tropical Spice Garden out of Batu Ferringhi is a welcome sight while you slowly explore the gardens with the sounds of nature around you. With over 500 different types of plants and trees, the smells will tantalize your senses as you walk through the luscious greenery and appreciate ever more the outdoors in Penang.

The tropical climate and soil are perfect for these tropical plants and feature species from all around South and Southeast Asia. As you stroll through, look for nutmeg, clove, pepper, and vanilla trees!

 

 

You might even spot some monkeys or other small animals playing in the trees if you’re lucky. After working up an appetite, stop by the on-site restaurant for a bite before heading back out into the garden.

There is also a cafe serving light meals and snacks and a gift shop where you can buy spices and essential oils. The Tropical Spice Garden is open every day from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the entrance fee is 30RM for adults and 15RM for children (3-12 years old).

What to expect:

• Over 500 different types of plants and trees
• A spice garden, café, and gift shop all in one
• A chance to learn about different spices and how they are used
• A chance to relax in nature

 

 

Batu Ferringhi Beach

Batu Ferringhi beach is excellent for relaxing and enjoying the sun when looking for beach activities in Penang. The water is clean and clear, and the sand is soft and white. The beach is located on the northwest coast of Penang Island and is one of the most popular beaches.

The beach is open daily and has great places to swim or participate in water activities. The best thing about the Batu Ferringhi beach area is the beachfront Starbucks, which is a great place to take a break from the sun and enjoy a refreshing Frappucino with views and WIFI.

If you’re looking for adventure, try parasailing or jet skiing with several operators seen while walking along the beach’s calm waters!

What to expect:

• A long stretch of sandy beach
• Restaurants, cafes, and stalls selling souvenirs and trinkets
• Parasailing and jet skiing

 

 

 

The Botanical Gardens

The Penang Botanical Gardens, also known as “Waterfall Gardens” because of the cascading waterfall, is a great place to spend an afternoon. The gardens are enormous, and there is something for everyone.

If you’re looking to relax, there are plenty of benches and shady areas to rest in. If you’re feeling active, there are walking trails and a track for jogging or running. The gardens are also home to several plant species, some of which are rare and endangered.

 

 

The Penang Botanical Gardens are open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. Admission is free for Malaysian citizens and permanent residents, and there is a small fee for foreigners. The gardens are a short drive from the city centre, and plenty of parking is available.

What to expect:

• A cascading waterfall
• Walking trails and a jogging track
• Benches and shady areas to relax in
• Rare and endangered plants species
• Monkeys roaming about at will

 

These are just some outdoor activities you can do in Penang. There are many more things to see and do, and you will have an unforgettable time. So what are you waiting for in your Penang escape? Plan your trip today!

 

 

 

Georgetown street art in Penang is some of the best in Malaysia. The variety and creativity on display are impressive, with something new to see around every corner. Whether you’re a street art enthusiast or just looking for something different, Georgetown is worth a visit!

The history of Penang is a fascinating one; the modern history of Penang only started in 1786 because Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company landed on Penang Island, where Fort Cornwallis now stands. For Light, Penang was the ideal place because it was in the middle of the maritime trade routes between China and India, so it was a convenient place for trade, and it was a great place for French and Dutch expansion in Southeast Asia.

The British influence is so high here that the street names in Penang have English names; for example, the city itself is called Georgetown. There are streets like Lorong Buckingham, Armenian Street, Leith Street, etc.

Because Penang has been around for so long, the buildings date back to the 1700s, meaning many of them are rundown, but people have tried to renovate and make the old buildings look stunning. Artists and muralists alike have been attempting to enhance Georgetown’s position as the street capital of the country.

 

 

 

Since 2008, Georgetown has been inscribed as a World Heritage Site; street art has developed rapidly. In 2009, cartoonists such as Tang Mun Kian and Baba Chuah wanted to help bring awareness to the history of the street by adding the stories of the street and social history through the use of caricatures, so there are metal caricatures that have been set up all over the city for everyone to see.

The iron caricatures blend humour and historical facts that describe the relaxed demeanour of early settlement days, giving a unique history to each of those streets. They depict the people’s daily lives where those landmarks start at this moment.

In 2012, London-trained Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic was asked and commissioned to paint a collection of murals around the inner city, and you can see them all over Georgetown. The project sparks interest in the locals; more and more local artists are starting to add murals to the walls of Georgetown.

Now, rather than walking around aimlessly, most hostels and hotels will have a brochure of all the street art so that you can go on a scavenger hunt around the town and take photos of all the murals and sculptures. Being interested in street art, I was excited to start my tour, so with a coffee and my brochure in hand, I was ready for my adventure around Georgetown to see all the street art.

 

Are you looking for accommodation in Penang? Find fantastic hotel deals at Booking.com!

 

 

Discover the Famous Georgetown Street Art Scene in Penang – Malaysia

Georgetown is a World Heritage site; its streets are lined with beautiful colonial architecture and traditional temples. But in recent years, Georgetown has become known for something else: it is street art.

The Georgetown street art scene began in 2008 when a local artist painted murals on shophouse walls. Since then, the number of murals has grown exponentially, and Georgetown is now home to over 100 murals.

Street art depicts a wide range of subject matter, from Malaysian folklore to pop culture. And it’s not just limited to walls – Georgetown’s street art can be found on sidewalks, stairs, and even doors. Georgetown is the place to be if you’re looking for a dose of colour and creativity in what can best describe making the best in a rundown situation.

 

Booking.com

 

 

The George Town Heritage Centre

Georgetown is world-famous for its street art, and the Georgetown Heritage Centre is the perfect place to explore this artistic side of the city.

The Centre houses several museums that showcase Georgetown’s unique history and culture and a range of interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the street art. In addition to the street art, the Georgetown Heritage Centre also offers other attractions, including a café, a gift shop, and a range of outdoor spaces.

Whether you want to learn more about Georgetown’s history or enjoy some of the city’s most iconic artwork, the Georgetown Heritage Centre is worth visiting.

Below is a list of things you’ll achieve when walking through the Georgetown Heritage Centre.

– See the sights and learn about Georgetown’s history at the Heritage Centre
– Get to know more about the culture and traditions of Penang
– Take a walk through the beautiful colonial architecture of Georgetown
– Enjoy some delicious local cuisine

 

 

 

Protecting the street art in Georgetown

Georgetown is well known for its street art – and good reason! The vibrant, colourful murals can be found on buildings and walls throughout the neighbourhood. But what happens when street art starts to break down?

Georgetown’s street art is exposed to the elements 24/7, which means it’s constantly at risk of fading, peeling, or flaking. The hot summer sun and harsh weather can take a toll, and even the pollution from traffic can cause damage. Over time, these factors can cause the artwork to lose its vibrancy and become faded and dull.

Fortunately, some steps can be taken to help protect Georgetown’s street art. Regular cleaning and maintenance can extend the artwork’s life, and UV-resistant varnishes can help to protect against fading. By taking these measures, we can help to preserve Georgetown’s unique character – and keep its street art scene alive and thriving for years to come!

 

Klook.com

 

 

The Process of how street art gains approval

Georgetown’s street art is world-renowned, and for a good reason. The vibrant murals and larger-than-life sculptures add colour and personality to the neighbourhood, drawing in visitors worldwide. But have you ever wondered how these pieces are created?

Georgetown street art is created using a variety of mediums, including acrylic paint, spray paint, and mosaic tile. The Process begins with an artist submitting a proposal to the Georgetown Arts Commission. The artist starts painting or sculpting on-site if the proposal is approved.

Once the piece is completed, it undergoes a rigorous review process by the Georgetown Arts Commission. If they approve, the work is then installed in its permanent location. And that’s how street art comes to life!

 

 

 

The different types of Murali Street Art in Georgetown

The Georgetown Street art is scattered all over the city, with new ones appearing all the time. Some of them are massive, while others are tiny and hidden away. So if you’re looking for some colourful eye candy during your visit to Penang, check out the street art scene! No matter where you go in Georgetown, you’re sure to find something interesting to admire (or Instagram)!

For now, have a brief run-through of some of the famous street art in Penang.

 

 

Lorong Stewart Lane

Georgetown’s Lorong Stewart Lane is a hidden gem, not just because of the fantastic street art. This narrow alleyway is lined with colourful murals, each more eye-catching than the last. But that’s not all that makes this lane special.

It’s also home to several small businesses, including a cafe, a barber shop, and a florist. In addition, the alleyway often hosts live music and other events. So if you’re ever in Georgetown, swing by Lorong Stewart Lane – you won’t be disappointed!

 

 

The Jimmy Choo sculpture.

Georgetown is well-known for its street art, and one of the most famous pieces is the Jimmy Choo sculpture. Located on the corner of Lebuh Leith and Lebuh Muntri, the sculpture depicts the shoe designer’s early days in Penang.

Jimmy Choo is from Georgetown, and the sculpture captures his start in the shoe design industry. The statue is number one on the Georgetown scavenger hunt, and it’s easy to see why.

The detail and colours are unique, and it’s a great representation of Georgetown’s culture and history. If you’re in Georgetown, check out this famous sculpture.

 

 

 

 

Love Lane street art

The Love Lane Street Art depicts the street’s transformation from a quaint local lane to a hub for backpackers and travellers. The abundance of bars and hostels on the road has changed the history of Love Lane in the past few years, but this sculpture perfectly captures the street’s new identity.

History states that back in the day, the wealthy husbands of Muntri Street used to come to Love Lane, which used to be a street filled with brothels, to sleep with their mistresses. So, it is clear that the artists truly embraced that idea with this metal sculpture of a husband climbing out a window.

Georgetown’s street art makes it a unique and fun place to visit; this sculpture is an excellent example. If you’re ever in Georgetown, check out Love Lane and all its fantastic street art.

 

 

 

 

“Little Children on a Bicycle”

Georgetown’s Armenian Street is home to a wide variety of street art, and one of the most extraordinary murals can be found on the wall of a shophouse. Painted by Ernest Zacharevic, “Little Children on a Bicycle” depicts a little girl taking her younger brother on a bike ride.

The joy on their faces is contagious, and the three-dimensional objects that Zacharevic has used to add flair to the painting bring the scene to life. Georgetown’s street art is worth checking out; this mural is a must-see!

 

 

 

Old Bike by Loic Zacharevic

Georgetown is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant food scene, and street art. One of the most popular Georgetown street artists is Loic Zacharevic, whose murals can be found all over the city. Zacharevic’s work often uses three-dimensional objects to add an extra layer of interest to the paintings.

Zacharevic’s murals are a must-see for any visitor to Georgetown! For example, his mural “Old Motorbike” depicts a boy waiting on his bike as he watches pedestrian traffic. The mural itself is two-dimensional, but there are also three-dimensional cigarettes poking out of the wall, adding an element of fun and playfulness to the piece.

 

 

Georgetown Penang’s street art is world-renowned, and for a good reason – the artwork is gorgeous! The murals are incredibly detailed and vibrant, telling stories reflecting Georgetown’s rich history. From depictions of traditional Malaysian life to modern takes on pop culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

What’s even more impressive is that Georgetown’s street art isn’t just confined to a few blocks – it can be found throughout the city, brightening up even the most mundane buildings. If you’re ever in Penang, take some time to admire Georgetown’s fantastic street art – you won’t be disappointed!