Penang
Country: Malaysia · Region: Southeast Asia · Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
Penang, known as the Pearl of the Orient, is a historic port city on Malaysia's west coast featuring a UNESCO World Heritage site with colonial architecture, cultural diversity, and renowned local cuisine. Cruise ships dock at Swettenham Pier in George Town, offering access to temples, beaches, and countryside attractions.
Top sights
George Town historic district, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Hill, Batu Ferringhi beaches, Khoo Kongsi clan house
Things to do
- Kek Lok Si Temple
- A major temple accessible by bus 203 or 204 from George Town, located in Air Itam approximately 30 minutes southwest of the city center.
- Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
- Accessible via funicular base station reached by bus 203 or 204, offering views from the hill near Air Itam.
- Tropical Spice Garden
- Located along bus 101 route to Teluk Bahang on the northern coast.
- Khoo Kongsi (Khoo Clan House)
- An ornate and superbly restored historic building located in George Town.
Beaches
- Batu Ferringhi
- Located on the northern coast with white sandy beaches, luxurious hotels, and nearby resort town of Tanjung Bungah; accessible via bus 101.
- Teluk Bahang
- A fishing village on the northern coast included in the Batu Ferringhi area, accessible via bus 101 to Penang National Park.
Where to eat
- George Town
- The capital city features numerous dining options and is known for local food experiences throughout the historic streets.
- Balik Pulau
- A small town popular for its exceptional local food including assam laksa, durian, and nutmeg.
Forecast for Penang
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Weather in Penang by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 83°F | 74°F | 5.7 in | 19 |
| February | 84°F | 74°F | 4.3 in | 15 |
| March | 85°F | 75°F | 7.1 in | 23 |
| April | 84°F | 76°F | 12.1 in | 28 |
| May | 84°F | 76°F | 16.0 in | 28 |
| June | 83°F | 76°F | 8.6 in | 23 |
| July | 83°F | 76°F | 7.4 in | 22 |
| August | 83°F | 75°F | 12.0 in | 25 |
| September | 82°F | 75°F | 12.5 in | 26 |
| October | 82°F | 74°F | 16.5 in | 28 |
| November | 82°F | 74°F | 16.1 in | 30 |
| December | 82°F | 74°F | 8.8 in | 23 |
Getting around
Walk, take RapidPenang buses (main hub at KOMTAR), hire a trishaw, or use the ferry service to the mainland from Weld Quay.
What to eat
Penang is hailed as the food capital of Malaysia; try local specialties like assam laksa and fresh seafood at establishments throughout George Town and coastal areas.
Tips
Start sightseeing early in the morning, wear light clothes and sunblock, and download the MyRapid PULSE app for live bus tracking.
Best for
History, beaches, temples, food
More ports in Southeast Asia
Bali (Benoa) · Bangkok (Laem Chabang) · Da Nang · Ha Long Bay · Ho Chi Minh City (Phu My) · Ko Samui · Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) · Langkawi · Manila · Phuket · Singapore