Penang Hill, a day of cool retreat

Head up from George Town to cooler climes of the Penang Hill or Bukit Bendara. This is an area consisting of several adjoining hills such as the Admiral Hill, Flagstaff Hill, Strawberry Hill, Tiger Hill, Western Hill, etc. During colonial times, the British used this area as a retreat or as a safe haven from malaria! Today, visitors to Penang throng this popular destination for a glimpse of its flora and fauna, for an opportunity to view the island’s contours, to see the colonial bungalows, or to profess their love with decorative padlocks. Also in between all these, you can binge on local food at the inviting Cliff Cafe, also known as Astaka Food and Beverage Center. There’s more to Penang Hill than what meets the eye.
The most popular way to scale up Penang Hill is by the funicular rail. Climbing up the woody hills in an air-conditioned coach, the cliff railway offers an easier access as compared to the sweltering 2–3 hours trek, preferred by hikers. You may also choose to hire a cab to go straight to the top via the jeep tracks from Penang’s Botanical Garden and back to your hotel.

Tips: Please refer to our guide ‘Penang’s Religious Circuit’ for information about the famous temples of Penang Hill Hindu temple and Kek Lok Si temple. Also, refer to our guide titled ‘Penang’s Museums Trail’ for information about the unique Owl Museum. You must include these places of interest in your itinerary for Penang Hill.