Fort Cornwallis

Overview

Fort Cornwallis is a star-shaped fort located on the north-eastern tip of Penang Island in Malaysia. It is one of the oldest structures on the island and a popular tourist attraction.

Fort Cornwallis is the largest standing fort in Malaysia and has historical significance as a British military stronghold.

Fort Museum

Location

Address

Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, George Town, Penang

Neighborhood: Esplanade

Coordinates

5.414200, 100.338300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

20 MYR

Children

10 MYR

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Pleasant

• Guided tours
• Historical reenactments

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended hours

autumn

Cooler and drier

• Cultural exhibitions

winter

Warm and humid

• Holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online
Carry water and sunscreen
Check for guided tour schedules

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

umbrella raincoat

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• hydration
• sun protection

Medical facilities: first aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Typical Costs

entry 20 MYR

parking 5 MYR

food 15 MYR

souvenirs 20 MYR

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes and light clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 week
• official website
• 48 hours prior
• available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Penang Heritage Trail

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Penang International Airport

Distance: 18 km

Travel Time: 30 minutes

taxi

40 MYR 30 min

public_transport

5 MYR 45 min

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

bus

2 MYR 10 min

taxi

10 MYR 5 min

walking

20 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history and well-preserved architecture

Historical Significance: Key British colonial site with historical events and legends

Insider Tips

Free entry for locals on certain days
Best food stalls near the fort entrance
Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer tourists

Local Recommendations

• Try local Penang street food at nearby stalls
• Ask for guide John for detailed historical insights

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Halo

thank_you Terima kasih

where_is Di mana

how_much Berapa

beautiful Cantik

ticket Tiket

Guide Languages: English, Malay, Chinese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for the star-shaped structure

Result: Stunning architectural shots

#FortCornwallis #PenangHeritage

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, main courtyard

prohibited areas exhibitions, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed in museums

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted during peak hours

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

KOMTAR

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Landmark

Penang Clock Tower

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min