Penang Hill

ENCHANTING

Penang Hill

Malaysia’s oldest hill resort, situated on the island of Penang, beckons with a nostalgic charm. Set amidst a backdrop of history, heritage and cultural legacy, this hill resort offers a memorable experience with a funicular train ride, astounding natural fauna and buildings reminiscent of an era gone by. Situated facing the Straits of Malacca, Penang Hill is an enchanting getaway with lofty trees and sweeping views of the land and sea. Penang Hill is also known as Bukit Bendera in the local language, referring to the most developed peak in the group of hills. It stands at 735m above sea level.

Contact Info

Perbadanan Bukit Bendera Pulau Pinang Jalan Stesen Bukit Bendera 11500 Air Itam, Penang

The Habitat Penang Hill Bukit Bendera 11300 Penang

Nostalgic Vibes

At the foot of the hill is the Penang Hill Railway, one of the world’s oldest funicular systems. It is also the only one-of-its-kind in the country. The original funicular system was officiated in 1924 by Sir LN Guillemard, the then Governor of the Straits Settlement. The current fourth generation system (commissioned in 2011) is the fastest, steepest and longest funicular in the region, spanning 2km. Complete with air-conditioning, the new coaches take visitors to the top in just about 4.5 minutes. Enjoy the lovely views of lush vegetation and small animals along the way. Upon reaching the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular vistas of Penang Island. On a clear sunny day, the entire eastern half of the island and the mainland as well as the Straits of Malacca can be seen. Spend some time enjoying the view, have a cuppa at the food court and don’t miss the chance to take a look at the original first generation funicular train which is on exhibit here.

A Place Of Pride

Lovers of architecture will have an interesting time observing the bungalows on Penang Hill. Featuring a fusion of styles from British colonial to Asian and modern design, these buildings are a sight to behold. Most of the original Victorian-style buildings too have stood the test of time because of the hardy materials used in their construction. Among these, is the Convalescent Bungalow (dated to 1803), touted to be the oldest building on Penang Hill.

Built in 1789, Bel Retiro is another noteworthy building. Originally built for the Governor of Penang, this is the most prestigious property on Penang Hill and served as a retreat for high-ranking government officials and visiting dignitaries. Although it is not accessible to the public, visitors can hike up to the main gate for selfies and Insta-worthy photographs.

The Bellevue Hotel, the only remaining hotel on the hill, offers magnificent views of the island. About 100m away, the Dinosaur and Aviary Garden is a fun place that stirs the imagination with its prehistoric setting. The Hillside Retreat is a century-old bungalow that offers accommodation facilities.

Flourishing Nature

Penang Hill is an environmentally rich site with numerous plant and animal species. The most common forest type found on Penang Hill is the hill dipterocarp forest. At the higher altitudes, submontane oak-laurels as well as coniferous trees and tree ferns can be found.

A unique feature here is that Penang Hill has a number of endemic species, including rare and endangered varieties of herbs and plants. These include the parasitic plant Exorhopalia ruficeps, the Penang Slipper Orchid (Paphiopedilum barbatum) and the endangered witch hazel Maingaya malayana.

The lush greenery is also home to small and medium-sized animals such as squirrels, monkeys, wild boars and nocturnal species including civets, flying lemurs, flying civets and bats. There are no large mammals on the hill. Lucky visitors can expect to catch sight of the Dusky Leaf Monkey, Black Giant Squirrel and Greater Racked-Tailed Drongo in the tropical rainforest. Penang Hill also has a rich variety of birdlife. Over 100 species or about 80% of the birds found on Penang Island have been recorded here. To view a great collection of pitcher plants, visit the Monkey Cup Garden which has a collection of species from Malaysia, Indonesia, Madagascar and Brazil.

Hi-Tea At The Highlands

Staying true to Penang’s reputation as a food paradise, Penang Hill serves an interesting platter of all the state’s favourites. If you fancy a cup of tea amid the hilly surroundings, try the David Brown’s at Strawberry Hill, a quintessential British colonial Restaurant and Tea Terrace which has the distinction of being the highest restaurant in Penang. Here, you can savour delectable English cuisine in an old-world ambience. The charming restaurant is located about 30m from the upper station.

To soak up the jungle setting, stop by at the much-loved Kopi Hutan café. Tucked away at the Monkey Cup Garden, this hidden gem dishes out delicious cakes and drinks to keep you refreshed. Astaka Bukit Bendera or Cliff Café is the place to try out various local items. But that is not all, there is a wide variety of food and snacks to try out before you leave!

The Habitat Penang Hill

The Habitat Penang Hill is a must-visit new eco-tourism site on Penang Hill. The first-of-its-kind in Malaysia, The Habitat Penang Hill boasts magical views and superb attractions and has the ideal setting for a comprehensive understanding of the Malaysian rainforest. Enjoy a thrilling time at the 13m Curtin Crest Tree Top Walk – the highest public viewing point on the island. For an unobstructed view of the virgin jungle canopy, stroll along the Langur Way Canopy Walk which spans three headlands and two valleys. There are also nature trails that take you across themed gardens for an insight into various plant species. Take a deep breath and get ready for some rainforest adventure at the Flight of the Colugo zip, which comprises five ziplines, an abseil and a rope bridge.

The Journey Uphill

Penang is about four hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur via the North South Expressway. Penang Hill is located in Ayer Itam, about 6km from George Town city centre. The easiest way to get to the hilltop is by hopping on the iconic Funicular Train. Visitors can drive up, or take the Hop On Hop Off bus, or a taxi/e-hailing ride to the Penang Hill Lower Station.

Tips

For safety reasons, you are advised to inform the Forestry Department if you plan to go jungle trekking . You may also want to carry a light jacket or an umbrella as there may be sudden showers at the top of the hill.

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01. INTRO

06. GENTING HIGHLANDS

10. CAMERON HIGHLANDS

14. FRASER’S HILL

18. BUKIT LARUT

22. KINABALU PARK

26. KUNDASANG

30. BERJAYA HILLS

34. PENANG HILL

38. JANDA BAIK

41. MALAYSIA AT A GLANCE

42. TOURISM MALAYSIA OFFICES

Itinerary

Let the Fun Begin
Sarawak Cultural
Berjaya Times Square Theme Park
Bangi Wonderland Theme Park & Resort
Wet World Shah Alam
KidZania Kuala Lumpur
Sunway Lagoon

Bukit Gambang Resort City

Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

A’ Famosa Resort

99 Wonderland Park

Resorts World Genting

Bukit Merah Laketown Resort

Lost World of Tambun

The Splash Out Langkawi

ESCAPE Penang

Monsopiad Heritage Village

Mari Mari Cultural Village

1 INTRODUCTION

4-12 DOING THE SIGHTS

14 - 17 TROPICAL ENCLAVES

18 - 22 TREASURE TROVES

23 - 25 RELAX AND REJUVENATE

26 - 28 ENTHRALLING PERFORMANCES

29 - 31 CELEBRATIONS GALORE

33 - 37 ENTERTAINMENT AND EXCITEMENT

28 - 44 SENSATIONAL SHOPPING

45 - 49 EATING OUT

52 - 55 BEYOND THE CITY

56 - 67 - USEFUL INFORMATION

Malaysia Exotic Ethnic Heritage

Get a glimpse into Malaysia’s rich mosaic of ethnic communities and indigenous people.

National and Marine Parks

Blessed with year-round sunshine and rain, Malaysia has a wealth of tropical flora and fauna. Visit its national and marine parks to enjoy the captivating sights both on land and underwater!

Malaysia a Preferred Cruise Destination

Get your complete info on cruising, yachting, anchorage facilities and land excursions around the country.

Culinary Delights

What better way to explore Malaysia than through its food! Follow the aroma to track down lip-smacking delights found around the country, together with interesting snippets on its culture and origins.

Homestay Experience

The best way to engage with the locals, a homestay programme gives a peek into the lifestyles, customs, cultures and pastimes of a local family.

Dive in Paradise

Enjoy exploring the South China Sea, Andaman Sea, Celebes and Sulu seas for incredible sights from pelagic species, sea turtles to reefs, wrecks and more.

Malaysia - A World of Luxury

For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Malaysia is the place to indulge in sheer comfort and sophistication. Luxe Malaysia takes you beyond your expectations.

Malaysia Sport Fishing Paradise

Get your rod ready to reel in the best catch in Malaysian waters.

Dining & Entertainment

Find the coolest, trendy spaces to hang out while you tickle your tastebuds with the best delights.

Johor

Visit Malaysia’s southern gateway, for a family vacation at the theme parks or escape to its islands for an unforgettable holiday.

Negeri Sembilan

Known for its fascinating Minangkabau culture and a unique social system, Negeri Sembilan is the place to learn age-old customs and traditions.

Melaka

The birth place of the nation, Melaka is a treasure trove of history and heritage. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City for vestiges of the past.

Labuan

Located off the northwestern coast of Borneo, this island thrills visitors with its wreck diving sites, historical relics and duty-free shopping.

Sarawak

Sarawak, the largest state in Malaysia, has a vast wilderness that contains numerous national parks including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mulu National Park.

Sabah

From the majestic height of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest peak, to the stunning depths of the world-famous Sipadan Island, Sabah is a magnificent nature destination.

Fun and Fantasy

Find the fun and thrill that you are looking for in Malaysia. Meet your favourite characters, plunge down the world’s longest water slide or enjoy the rides and games!

Cool Highland Resorts

Love the cool highlands? Find refreshing destinations to unwind in Malaysia. From French-themed settings, energetic amusement parks to forest-clad hills, there is something for everyone.

Birdwatching Paradise

Enjoy birdwatching at 55 Important Bird Areas (IBA) throughout the country, tucked away at various habitats such as islands, coasts or lush lowland and montane rainforests.

Putrajaya

Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia, is a well-planned township with impressive buildings, verdant parks, scenic lakes and beautiful bridges.

Selangor

Selangor is home to the country’s main airport KLIA, and the main gateway by sea, Port Klang. It is also the country’s most developed state with a long list of shopping malls and themed attractions.

Kuala Lumpur

Malaysia’s dynamic capital city is bustling with attractions and activities. Explore the city by day and night.

Pahang

The largest state in the peninsula beckons nature-enthusiasts with exciting eco-adventures. From Taman Negara, the oldest national park in the country, to the idyllic Tioman Island, Pahang is simply mesmerising.

TERENGGANU

Beautiful islands, culture and nature give Terengganu its magical appeal. Dive, snorkel, sunbathe at the islands or journey to its hinterland to experience the best of nature.

Kelantan

Hailed as the Cradle of Malay culture, Kelantan is a destination teeming with age-old arts, crafts and pastimes.

Perak

A tin-rich state in its heyday, Perak beckons with a range of sights and experiences. The state’s top attractions include Pangkor, an island getaway and Pangkor Laut, an internationally-acclaimed private island.

Penang

The site of a UNESCO World Heritage City, Penang is a holiday paradise with fabulous beach resorts and eclectic cultures. It is also the undisputable haven for foodies.

Kedah

Kedah is Malaysia’s largest paddy producing state. Delve into history in Lembah Bujang, the site of an ancient civilisation or relax in Langkawi, a world-famous resort island.

Perlis

Perlis is the northern gateway to Malaysia. Despite its small size, Perlis has an abundance of attractions that make it a great destination.

Tourist Map of Malaysia

There is so much to do and so many places to see in Malaysia. To make sure that you don’t miss anything, use this handy map to navigate your way across the country and find great places to visit.

Langkawi

The Jewel of Kedah

Welcome

5. LANGKAWI – YOUR FIRST STOP, KUAH

8. BEACHES & CRUISING

10. NATURE’S BEST IN LANGKAWI

14. RICH ISLAND CULTURE

16. THINGS TO DO, SIGHTS TO SEE

22. SAILING IN LANGKAWI

24. LIVE ACTION ON THE ISLAND

25. SHOPPING & DINING

26. ACCOMMODATION

28. GETTING TO LANGKAWI

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board

30. USEFUL CONTACTS

MALAYSIA TRAVEL GUIDE

03. SELAMAT DATANG

05. CENTRAL REGION

06. KUALA LUMPUR

22. SELANGOR

32. PUTRAJAYA

41. SOUTHERN REGION

42. NEGERI SEMBILAN

52. MELAKA

64. JOHOR

71. NORTHERN REGION

78. PERAK


88. PENANG

100. KEDAH

112. PERLIS

119. EAST COAST REGION

120. PAHANG

132. TERENGGANU

146. KELANTAN

159. EAST MALAYSIA REGION

160. SABAH

180. SARAWAK

196. LABUAN

Copyright © Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board