Penang , Malaysia

Penang Grand Tour with Lunch

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About this experience

This tour covers the main highlights of Penang Island. It includes Chew Jetty – the early Chinese migrant settlement in Penang, the intricate stone carvings and woodworks of the Khoo Kongsi (Clan House), the colourful Little India, the iconic 720-metre high Penang Hill by funicular train and the Kek Lok Si – Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist temple with its 30-metre high statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Lunch en-route at a local restaurant, optional stops include Coffee Tree and Royal Selangor Pewter.

Available options

Penang Grand Tour with Lunch

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fees

Lunch

Funicular train ride

English speaking driver cum guide

Hotel pickup and drop off

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The largest and most intact of the clan jetties, Chew Jetty consists of 75 elevated houses, several Chinese temples, a community hall and lots of tourist facilities, all linked by elevated wooden walkways. It's a fun place to wander around admiring docked fishing boats while the scent of frying fish wafts across the walkways. There are numerous places to browse souvenirs and nibble snack food.

Stop 2

One of the clan houses still standing in George Town, the Khoo Kongsi clan house takes on a remarkable resemblance to a mini clan village. It features tall thin columns supporting a gently sloping, red tiled roof, topped with carvings of dragons, phoenixes, mythical animals and various scenes from popular Chinese legends. The clan house also has a grand hall adorned with resplendent and intricate carvings and richly ornamented pillars which are said to have been crafted by master craftsmen from China.

Stop 3 Pass by

Drive through the colorful Little India. Along market street, there are many fashion Indian stores. They sell mostly saree, silk and cotton, almost anything that has the essence of India. Apart from the interesting shops with vibrant colors, there are multiple shops selling delicious Indian culinary.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Penang Hill is the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia, dated late 1700's. Ride the steep funicular railway up Penang Hill. Enjoy panoramic views across the island and explore the historic British hill station, dating back to the 18th century.

Stop 6

Staggered on hillside terraces overlooking Air Itam, Malaysia's largest Buddhist temple is a visual delight. Built between 1890 and 1905, Kek Lok Si is the cornerstone of the Malay-Chinese community, which provided the funding for its two-decade-long construction (and ongoing additions). Its key features are the seven-tier Thousand-Buddha Pagoda and an awesome 36.5 meters-high bronze statue of Goddess of Mercy.

To reach the temple's main entrance, you'll have to run the gauntlet of souvenir stalls on the uphill path. You'll also pass a pond packed with turtles. There are a lot of stairs involved, but the final stretch up to the statute of Goddess of Mercy is covered by a funicular.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Penang

Penang, a vibrant state in Malaysia, is a captivating blend of cultural diversity, rich history, and stunning landscapes. Known as the 'Pearl of the Orient,' it offers a unique fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and colonial influences, making it a must-visit destination in Southeast Asia.

Top Attractions

Kek Lok Si Temple

One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, Kek Lok Si is a must-visit for its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere.

Religious 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Penang National Park

A beautiful park with diverse wildlife, beaches, and hiking trails. It's one of the few places in the world where you can see monkeys and turtles in their natural habitat.

Nature Half-day to full day Free (park entrance)

Clan Jetties

A series of historic waterfront settlements built on stilts over the sea. The Clan Jetties offer a unique glimpse into the lives of Penang's early Chinese immigrants.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried rice cake strips with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs. It's a popular street food dish with a smoky, savory flavor.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and eggs

Nasi Kandar

A fragrant rice dish served with a variety of curries and side dishes. It's a Muslim dish that's popular among all communities in Penang.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and spices

Asam Laksa

A tangy and spicy fish-based noodle soup with tamarind, mackerel, and vegetables. It's a Penang specialty with a unique sour and spicy flavor.

Lunch Contains fish and spices

Popular Activities

Hiking in Penang National Park Snorkeling at Monkey Beach Island-hopping tours Beach relaxation at Batu Ferringhi Spa treatments Yoga classes Exploring George Town's street art Visiting temples and museums

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This period offers the best weather with lower humidity and less rainfall. It's ideal for exploring the island's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malay
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Hokkien, Cantonese, Mandarin), Tamil
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Penang is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air

Penang International Airport • 13 km from George Town

By bus

Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal, Penang Sentral

Getting around

Public transport

Rapid Penang buses are the most convenient and affordable way to get around. They are air-conditioned and run frequently.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

George Town Batu Ferringhi Gurney Drive

Day trips

Langkawi

50 km from Penang • Full day

Langkawi is a beautiful island known for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and duty-free shopping. It's a perfect day trip for those looking to relax and enjoy nature.

Butterworth

3 km from Penang Island • Half day

Butterworth is a town on the mainland across from Penang Island. It offers a mix of cultural attractions, historic sites, and local markets.

Ipoh

180 km from Penang • Full day

Ipoh is a city known for its colonial architecture, limestone caves, and delicious food. It's a great day trip for those interested in history and culture.

Festivals

George Town Festival • August Penang International Food Festival • June Chinese New Year • January/February (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit Penang during the shoulder seasons (March to April, September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Explore the island's street art and cultural attractions on foot or by bicycle for a more immersive experience.
Try Penang's famous street food at hawker centers and night markets for an authentic culinary adventure.
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities.
Use public transportation or rent a bike to get around, as it's an affordable and eco-friendly way to explore the island.