Penang countryside Balik Pulau Half Day Tour
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4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Balik Pulau is the other side of Penang Island, where lush greenery thrives. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, it is home to traditional Malay villages and fishing ports. On this journey, we will take you to explore this hidden side of the island, visiting traditional industries such as nutmeg and shrimp paste factories, admiring the traditional Malay houses, and of course, tasting the local delicacies as part of the experience. I’m sure it will be an unforgettable countryside trip.
Available options
Penang countryside Balik Pulau Half Day Tour
What's included
Private transportation
A licensed guide is included in this tour.
Detailed itinerary
1
This is a nutmeg factory that has been in operation for decades. During the visit, we will explore the nutmeg orchard, see the nutmeg fruit, and learn about its various benefits through detailed explanations. The factory also sells a variety of nutmeg products, giving visitors the perfect opportunity to bring this wonderful product home.
2
We will enjoy a breakfast in Balik Pulau, and what we eat will depend on which vendors are open that day. But don't worry—it's all delicious Penang cuisine. After breakfast, we’ll take a stroll through the fishing village to admire the scenic harbor, the docked boats, and the relaxing atmosphere that will leave you feeling completely at ease. Along the way, we’ll drive past some traditional Malay houses, where we’ll stop for photos so you can capture the charm of this rare countryside experience.
3
Another cottage industry we will visit is the shrimp paste factory located in Pulau Betong, a small fishing village in Balik Pulau. We will observe the process of making belacan (shrimp paste) and how it is dried under the hot sun. Shrimp paste is an essential ingredient in many Malaysian delicacies."
4
We will admire the beautiful installation art at the paddy field. This is one of the five container art pieces found in Penang. The scenery there is highly Instagrammable—you can enjoy the view of the hills rising in the surroundings and the paddy field right beside it.
5
When you come to Balik Pulau, you definitely can't miss Assam Laksa. "Assam" means tamarind, and this dish has a flavor unique to Penang. Balik Pulau has the fresh ingredients needed for this delicacy, and even locals often make a special trip here to enjoy it. It has also been featured by CNN as one of the world's best foods. After savoring the Laksa, we'll continue by trying another Balik Pulau specialty—brown sugar buns.
What's not included
All meal expenses and the cost of purchasing souvenirs are to be borne by the participants.
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
YUE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will contact you prior the tour date to provide vehicle number. We will meet you at the lobby of Jen hotel on the travel date. Private arrangement can be made to pick up from others location with some fees incur, communication will be done prior the date.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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