Attractions in Georgetown, Penang

These places are definitely worth visiting if you're spending a few days in Georgetown:

1. Architectural splendor and heritage buildings, places of worship

In 1786,the British established their first colony in the Malay peninsular. Soon, there was an influx of Chinese, Indians and Arabs. Today, some of the colonial buildings remain. Many wealthy Chinese also left their mark in the form of grand mansions.

Francis Light first landed in the area where Fort Cornwallis stands. The British had to defend themselves against the French and the fort is complete with a chapel, a gunpowder magazine, cell rooms, flagstaff, harbour light and several cannons. It is also the biggest well-preserved fort in the country.

More on Fort Cornwallis

Khoo Kongsi Clan was one of five big clans in Georgetown, all Hokkien, deriving their origin in Fujian Provine, China. The clan house is one of the most magnificent in Southeast Asia.

Click here for more information.

Don't miss the Cheong Fatt Tze "Blue Mansion". It's now a museum and guided heritage tours are conducted daily.

Click here for more information.

The majority of Malaysians follow three of the world's great faiths: Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism; and, it seems, they are extremely tolerant about where they build their places of worship. My friend, Mr Wong, suggested that tourists visit Pitt Street. Here, a Chinese temple stands close to a mosque. Nearby is an old Anglican Church. (Click here for a good description of the history of this street and the places of worship.) An old synagogue can be found in Yahudi Road, and nearby is an Anglican Church.

2. Kek Lok Si in Ayer Itam: The Kek Lok Si temple is the most famous Chinese temple in Penang and one of the largest in Southeast Asia. Its construction started in the late 19th century.

More information can be found in the Tourism Malaysia website here.

3. Penang Hill

4. Botanical Gardens

5. Snake Temple: If you still haven't seen enough of temples, this one is for you. The temple is more than 200 years old and is located in Bayan Lepas on the way to the airport. If you aren't squeamish about clammy slithering reptiles, put one of the pit vipers round your shoulder. Don't worry about their venom. It has been removed, but don't take my word for it.

For more information, click here.

6.  Gurney Drive, a glutton's heaven

All visitors to Penang head for Gurney Drive to taste their favorite food. Penang has arguably the best cuisine in Malaysia. Penang laksa is the all time favourite, but you'll find countless varieties of mouth watering and cheap food to savor. Gurney Drive has its share of bars and nightlife.
Information on night life.