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!

Kek Lok Si Temple, Snake Temple, Gurney Drive, and 4 More Places to Check Out in Penang

Tourists visiting Penang will not have to think twice about booking a Penang accommodation for the city is one of the most captivating destinations in Malaysia. With a lot of places to visit and discover, here are some of the must-visit attractions while in the city:

1. Kek Lok Si Temple
Also known as the Temple of Supreme Bliss, this is regarded as one of Malaysia’s most important Buddhist temples. The shrine is famous for its pagoda tiers that feature a mix of Chinese, Thai, and Burmese architectural styles. It also houses a 30.2-meter bronze statue of the Goddess of Mercy. Kek Lok Si Temple opens at 7 am and closes at 9 pm.

2. Penang State Museum
An impressive collection of artifacts, old transportation, and historical paintings are found in this depository. It also features an art gallery where you can see various national and state treasures, such as an array of jewelery, porcelain, and furniture. Situated at Lebuh Farquhar, the Penang State Museum is open from Saturday to Thursday (9 am to 5 pm).

3. Snake Temple
Built in 1850 and originally known as the Snake Temple of Azure Cloud, this is the only temple in the world that houses poisonous pit vipers. The snakes are believed to be rendered harmless by the smoke from a big incense, but for safety purposes, the vipers have also been stripped of their venom. Located at Sungai Kluang, this one-of-a-kind attraction is open daily from 6 am to 7 pm. Admission is free.

4. Batik Painting Museum
Opened in 2013, Penang's Batik Painting Museum showcases the unique art form of Malaysia, which began in the 1950's. Here, you'll see around 70 batik paintings that include the earliest masterpieces by Chuah Thean Teng, the Father of Batik Painting in Penang. The museum is situated along Lebuh Armenian and operates from 10 am to 5 pm.

5. Penang Botanic Gardens
Experience nature at its best when you step into the verdant grounds of Penang Botanic Gardens. Set in an old quarry site along Jalan Air Terjun, this attraction boasts numerous species of flora that are divided into different sections: Orchidarium, Fern House, Palm Collection, Bromeliad and Begonia House, and more.

6. Wat Chaiyamangkalaran
Located at Lorong Burmah, this shrine features a 33-meter long gold plated Reclining Buddha. Also known as the Sleeping Buddha, this statue represents Pra Buddhachaiya Mongkul at his death and signifies his detachment from the world. Wat Chaiyamangkalaran is open to public from 6 am to 5:30 pm.

7. Gurney Drive
Persiaran Gurney or Gurney Drive is a famous seafront promenade in George Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Penang). Here, you'll have convenient access to flea markets, shopping centers, and hawker centers, where you can enjoy a wide range of fast food at reasonable prices. Some of the best accommodations in Penang, like the The Royale Bintang Penang, are also found in this area.