The Pearl of the Orient
Penang (Pulau Pinang in Malay) is located on the north-western coast of Peninsula Malaysia. It comprises the Penang island an a strip on the mainland named Province Wellesly (Seberang Perai) which are linked by the Penang Bridge, the third longest in the world.

Penang island measure a modest 285 sq km and is inhabited by slightly over a million people who hail from a diverse mix of cultures and religions.

Penang is blessed with such a great variety of food that is often said that Penangites don't eat to live, they live to eat. Hawker stalls offering a diverse selection of local fare are in abundance everywhere you go. Nasi Kandar, Satay (skewered marinated meat pieces), Laksa (noodles in a spicy sour soup), Hainanese Chicken Rice, Popiah and Rojak are just some of Penang's sumptuous treats you can't afford to miss.

Penang poses a unique charm of old and new perfectly blended. Take its streets and you will see small time pedlers exhibiting their wares within a view of larger, more mordern business establishments. Vintage trishaws share the roads with modern automobiles. Quaint, old buildings stand proud next to taller, more sophisticated ones. It is an island in full bloom. And it beckons you to harvest your dream to a wonderful holiday.

The Charming Wonders of Penang

• Penang Bridge- Stretching 13.5 km, from Seberang Perai on the mainland to Gelugor on the island, this architectural wonder is officially acclaimed the third longest bridge in the world.
• Kek Lok Si Temple- This Buddist temple is reputed to be the largest in South-East Asia and its unique architecture is the result of Thai, Chinese and Burmese influence.
• Snake Temple- Snakes slither across altars and around this temple freely. Legend has it that it was actually the home of a very religious man who gave shelter to poisonous snakes and after he died, it became a place of worship.
• Penang Hill- Take a funicular train up to the island's highest point at 821 metres above sea level and enjoy a panoramic view of Penang.
• Fort Cornwallis- Situated on the landing site of Penang's founder. Sir Francis Light, the fort was originally a wooden fortress but was rebuilt using stones between 1804 and 1805.
• Penang Museum & Art Gallery- Trace Penang's rich history or marvel at the arts and crafts of her people's diverse heritage.
• Botanical Gardens- Located just 8 km from city center, this serene 30-hectre garden is home to a large pack of friendly macaque monkeys and Penang's magnificent flora.
• Penang's famed golden beaches- The Batu Ferringhi, Tanjung Bungah and Teluk Bahang beaches share the same shoreline and it is along this stretch that you will find world-class resorts that offer excellent accomodation and facilities. Secluded beaches can also be found but one may have to endure thrilling jungle trails to get there. Among them are Telok Duyung, Monkey Beach and Pantai Mas.

Penang Festival(December)
A month-long celebration that catapults Penang into a carnival-like atmosphere. Highlighs of this festival are a beauty pageant, film festivals, cultural shows and parades. See spectacular acrobatic displays as teams try to outdo each other by performing thrilling stunts like carrying giant flags while balancing 18-foot high poles during the Chingay procession. Other mesmerising performances include the lion dance, stilt walking and a float procession.

[KUALA LUMPUR] [LANGKAWI] [SARAWAK] [KINABALU] [TAMAN NEGARA] [MALACCA] [PANGKOR] [PENANG]

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