Destinations that make Penang, Malaysia Enchanting

There’s something magical about the island of Penang. It’s located where the great kingdoms of Asia meet the colonial empires of Europe. Today it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Malaysia, perfectly mixing culture and heritage with modern and urban magnificence. Yet Penang also provides palm-fringed beaches and mountainous jungles that show the exoticism the island can offer. So if you’re planning to go to the island, look for more than just the best in Penang accommodation, take a look at the sites that make the place enchanting. To help, we’ve listed down places you must visit on your vacation in Penang. Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion Cheong Fatt Tze came from a poor family living in Guangdong Province in the South of China. When the Second Opium War broke out, he left China and went to Southeast Asia. He was a water-carrier then shopkeeper in Jakarta before starting a trading company with the help of his father-in-law. He expanded his business from Jakarta to Medan, and then finally to Penang, Malaysia. Here he built the Cheong Fatt Tze Manzion, or what is fondly called the Blue Mansion. It was built in 1880 and has 38 rooms, 220 windows, and 5 courtyards paved with granite. The mansion features Gothic louvre windows, stained glass panels, and beautiful traditional Chinese style architecture. Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple The Dhammikarama Burmese Buddhist Temple is the only Burmese temple in Malaysia. In 1988, it was designated as one of Penang state’s historical sites to be preserved as an attraction. It’s made up of a main shrine hall, dining hall, monk’s quarters, library, and a lecture hall. The walkways are lined with panel paintings on the life of Buddha where the characters are dressed in colourful Burmese costume. The temple is managed by a Chief Monk who is responsible for facilitating the practice of Buddhism in the temple. Kek Lok Si Temple Known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, the Kek Lok Si Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia, and the most famous temple in Penang. It was built in 1890 by an immigrant Chinese Buddhist and remains to be the foundation of the relationship between the Malay and Chinese communities who provided the funding to finish the 20-year construction of the Kek Lok Si. Khoo Kongsi Kongsi’s were built in Penang in the 19th century by immigrant Chinese clan members so that they could band together, represent their social and spiritual commitments, and as a symbol of their solidarity. The Khoo Khongsi has been around for more or less 650 years and is part of the goh tai seh (five big clans) and is the most famous clan house in Penang. Today, clan houses serve as a means for educating the children of members, settle disputes, and advance loans. These are among the spots you can visit to get to know Penang island and its history a little better. Conveniently, they can all be found in George Town, a UNESCO Heritage Site and the multicultural capital of Penang. But going deep into Penang’s culture may also be experienced leisurely with Penang hotel promotions and their affordable accommodation. So, for added comfort and expedience, check out Hotel Sentral Seaview Penang, a Penang business hotel that is centrally located at the heart of George Town city. This way you won’t have to worry about getting to these amazing spots, you’ll just be a few minutes away from them. What are you waiting for? The amazing island of Penang awaits!