Discover Penang’s Rich Culture: Temple Visits & City Exploration

Penang Island , Malaysia

Discover Penang’s Rich Culture: Temple Visits & City Exploration

Active

(7 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Penang is a popular tourist destination in Malaysia and its capital Georgetown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A fusion of different people, cultures and traditions, Georgetown used to be a major trading hub in the Straits of Malacca. The city was known for its colorful architecture, combining British colonial buildings, Chinese shophouses and mosques. In just half day, you will get to see some of the best sights Georgetown has to offer and what makes it a truly unique city that cannot be found anywhere else in Asia.

- Discover Georgetown on an immersive half day tour
- Explore Penang's capital and its best sights and attractions
- Learn about Georgetown's rich historical background
- Lay your eyes on the famous Reclining Buddha Statue in Penang
- Harmonious temple bestowed with gifts from Chinese emperors
- Spectacular views of Georgetown & roundtrip transportation

Available options

+PenangHill(Fastlane)+KekLokSi

Private Penang City Tour 6 Hrs with Penang Hill (Fastlane) and Kek Lok Si<br/>Pickup included

Penang City Tour 5 Hrs

Private Penang City Tour 5 Hrs<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Hotel or cruise terminal pickup & drop off (selected hotel only)

English Speaking Driver

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Your tour begins with pickup from your hotel or cruise terminal at Georgetown on time for a 9am departure. Meet and greets our friendly driver at the lobby and proceeds for your tour.

Stop 2

Visit Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple where the 4th longest Reclining Buddha Statue is found

Stop 3

Right across the road you may also visit the Dhammikarama Burmese Temple which holds a Buddha statue standing at 8.2 meters, making it the tallest in Malaysia. The existence of these two temples is due to the early settlement of the Thai and Burmese community in the early 1800s.

George Town bears testimony to a living multi-cultural heritage and tradition of Asia where the many religions and cultures met and coexisted. They reflect the coming together of cultural elements from the Malay Archipelago, India and China with those of Europe, to create a unique architecture, culture and townscape. Take a scenic drive across George Town

Stop 5 Pass by

Take a scenic drive through the streets of George Town - UNESCO World Heritage Site and witness the ramnant left by the British and local dwellers of the past.

Places of Interest: Esplanade/Fort Cornwallis, Little India, Chinatown

Stop 6 Pass by

Next, make your way to colorful Little India

and eclectic Chinatown

On the way, we will stop for some free sampling of Penang’s famous White Coffee/ Tea @ Coffee Tree

After the city tour ends, the driver will bring you back to your hotel or cruise terminal. You may request to be dropped in any location in Georgetown.

What's not included

Food and drink

Gratuities

Surcharge 30% to be applied during super peak / festive season & must be paid on the day of travel

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.6

5 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Meeting point

Meeting point for cruise arrival

Important notes

Please wait at Hotel Lobby or Meeting Point 15 minutes before the time specified on this voucher to start.

Please call hotline number at least 24 hours before to confirm your pick up point.

Hotline number : +60 10 777 3860 (Daily : 7:00am - 9:00pm)

About Penang Island

Penang Island, known as the 'Pearl of the Orient,' is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With its UNESCO-listed George Town, stunning beaches, and diverse cuisine, it offers a unique Southeast Asian experience.

Top Attractions

George Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colonial architecture, street art, and rich cultural heritage.

Historical/Cultural Full day Free to explore, individual attractions may have entry fees

Penang Hill

A popular hill station offering panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures.

Nature/Adventure Half day MYR 12 (Funicular ride)

Kek Lok Si Temple

One of the largest and most famous Buddhist temples in Malaysia, known for its stunning architecture and the 30.2-meter tall bronze statue of Kuan Yin.

Religious/Cultural 2-3 hours Free, donations welcome

Batu Ferringhi Beach

A popular beach known for its white sand, water sports, and vibrant night market.

Beach Half day or full day Free, water sports and activities may have fees

Penang National Park

A protected area with diverse wildlife, hiking trails, and Monkey Beach.

Nature/Adventure Half day or full day MYR 5 (entry fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Char Kway Teow

Stir-fried rice cake strips with prawns, cockles, bean sprouts, and eggs, seasoned with soy sauce and chili.

Dinner Contains seafood, eggs, and soy. Can be made vegetarian.

Nasi Kandar

A meal of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and side dishes, often including meat, fish, and vegetables.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Roti Canai

A flaky, layered flatbread served with curry, often made from wheat flour, water, and ghee.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Contains wheat and ghee. Vegetarian options available.

Penang Laksa

A spicy noodle soup made with rice noodles, prawns, fish cakes, and a tangy tamarind-based broth.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains seafood and fish. Vegetarian options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking at Penang Hill Water sports at Batu Ferringhi Beach Exploring Penang National Park Beach relaxation at Batu Ferringhi Spa treatments Tea plantation tours in Cameron Highlands Exploring George Town's street art Visiting temples and museums

Best Time to Visit

December to February

This is the dry season with cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24-32°C 75-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Malay
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Hokkien, Mandarin, Cantonese), 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 travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services

Getting there

By air

Penang International Airport • 15 km from George Town

By bus

Sungai Nibong Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with a network of buses covering most parts of the island. Easy to use with a single ticket system.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

George Town Batu Ferringhi Chulia Street Gurney Drive

Day trips

Butterworth

4 km from George Town • Half day

A town on the mainland opposite Penang Island, known for its historic buildings, ferry services, and the famous Kek Lok Si Temple.

Langkawi

60 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A tropical island known for its beautiful beaches, duty-free shopping, and lush landscapes.

Cameron Highlands

200 km from Penang • Full day or overnight

A highland region known for its cool climate, tea plantations, and lush landscapes.

Festivals

George Town Festival • Late July to early August Chinese New Year • January or February (varies by lunar calendar) Hari Raya Aidilfitri • Varies by lunar calendar (usually May or June)

Pro tips

Explore George Town's street art on foot for a unique and immersive experience
Try local street food at hawker centers for an authentic and affordable culinary adventure
Visit Penang Hill for panoramic views of the island and cooler temperatures
Experience the vibrant night market at Batu Ferringhi for shopping, street food, and entertainment
Take a ferry to Butterworth for a day trip to explore the mainland and its attractions