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Penang is one of the most famous holiday destinations for both Malaysians and international travelers. It comes as no surprise because there’s so much to do and you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to food!
If you’re planning to make a visit to Penang, here are 20 things you should visit, eat, and do while you’re there:
#1 Penang Assam Laksa
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Your trip to Penang is incomplete without a taste of Penang Assam Laksa, which was also in the 7th place of CNN’s World’s Best 50 Foods last year.
#2 Penang Hill
Make your way to Penang Hill not only for the views but to also experience the world’s steepest railway tunnel track!
#3 The Habitat's Langur Way Canopy Walk
This is the only two-span stressed ribbon bridge in the world! It’s also the highest Canopy Walk in Malaysia, roughly around 700m above sea level. It’s perfect if you’re looking to marvel the landscape of Penang’s tropical forest.
#4 Nasi Kandar
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Penang is without a doubt the place to get your Nasi Kandar. You may have to wait in a long queue for it if you go to the most popular Nasi Kandar spots, but you can be sure that it’s worth it.
#5 The Top's Rainbow Skywalk
What’s it like to have a bird’s eye view of George Town? The open-air Rainbow Skywalk is the world’s first tower curved skywalk. Located at Level 68 of KOMTAR Tower, it allows you to stand 249m above the ground! If you’re feeling famished, there’s also an eatery on the roof where you can get some tapas and beverages.
#6 The Gravityz
Also located at KOMTAR Tower is The Gravityz, an outdoor adventure platform where you can try out the Flying Fox and High Ropes! This world’s highest ropes course challenge is definitely not for the fainthearted and those who don’t like heights.
#7 Batu Ferringhi
We can understand why Batu Ferringhi was ranked no. 8 in World’s 21 Great Value Beach Destination by International Living. You’ve got your water sports, scenic beach walks, shopping and great food!
#8 Penang Char Koay Teow and Mee Goreng Sotong
When you need a break from all that sightseeing and shopping, fill your stomach with Penang’s famous char koay teow or mee goreng sotong! They’re spicy, delicious, and a favourite for visitors and Penangites alike.
#9 Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion was named one of the 10 World’s Greatest Mansions and Grand Houses by Lonely Planet. Built before the end of 19th century, it’s one of Malaysia’s iconic boutique hotels and a must-visit!
Oh yes, this is also where Crazy Rich Asians shot that famous mah-jong scene between Michelle Yeoh and Constance Wu.
#10 Street Art
The presence of street art will capture your attention as you’re exploring George Town. The city is also the only Asian destination listed in Lonely Planet’s book “Street Art”. The street art will give you a glimpse of everyday life and George Town’s rich cultural heritage.
Plus, think of all the amazing IG posts you’ll be making!
#11 Trishaw Ride in George Town
If you want a different way to explore George Town then consider going for a trishaw ride. CNN has chosen George Town as one of the 13 most picturesque towns in Asia, so there’s plenty of things to see!
#12 Escape's Waterplay
Time to ‘escape’ (😉) the city and make your way to Escape’s Waterplay for a fun splash under the sun! Perfect for the whole family, the theme park will also have the world’s longest slide by the end of October 2019.
#13 Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm
The award-winning Entopia by Penang Butterfly Farm is the world’s first tropical butterfly and insect sanctuary. Founded in 1986, by self-taught entomologist David Goh, the Penang Butterfly Farm has attracted more than 5 million visitors from around the world. There are plenty of educational talks and hands-on learning activities for you to enjoy!
#4 Design Village Outlet Mall
The Design Village Outlet mall is Malaysia’s largest outlet mall! You can find famous brands such as Adidas, Timberland, and Converse all in one place. Plus, there’s plenty of food choices for you when you’re taking a break from all that shopping.
#15 Tech Dome Penang
Tech Dome Penang aims to create a hub for technology learning and exchange of ideas. Visitors get to explore world-class exhibits and participate in activities that cultivate the spirit of inquiry. You can also experience the world’s first free-standing vertical drop slide here!
#16 Penang Cendol
Tired from exploring Penang? Then take a break and quench your thirst with Penang’s authentic cendol.
#17 The Clan Jetties
Located beside the Kapitan Keling Mosque at Weld Quay, these water villages are more than a hundred years old. The jetties are named after a Chinese clan, with the Chew Jetty being the most tourist-friendly with the longest walkway, the most stilt-houses and a temple worth visiting that will definitely level up your IG game.
#18 Tropical Spice Garden
With over 500 species of plants, you can explore the Tropical Spice Garden by going on garden tours, night walks and even participate in cooking classes!
#19 Penang National Park
While the Penang National Park is also the smallest of Malaysian National Parks, it’s also one of the most scenic and the easiest to access. There are plenty of activities for you to enjoy—and not just jungle trekking either! You can fish, sunbathe, and even go on a boat.
#20 Butterworth Art Walk
Visit Butterworth Art Walk and you’ll be amazed at the 45 Insta-worthy murals and 10 art pieces along a 200m alley! Make sure your OOTD is on point and you’ll take the best pictures here!
Sounds awesome, right? From the list you can already see that there’s plenty of things to do with your loved ones in Penang! And in conjunction with the “Experience Penang Year 2020, The Diversity of Asia” campaign, there’s plenty more to come. So you should definitely put the state on the top of your list of places to visit… again!
Ready for an amazing trip?