Penang is a beautiful island off Malaysia’s northwest coast. Penang is a popular tourist destination that draws millions of visitors each year due to its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious food. In this article, we’ll look at Penang and all that it has to offer.
History
Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company founded Penang in 1786. The island was a vital trading post for the British, serving as a crossroads for goods exchange between Europe and Asia. Penang is now a cultural melting pot, with Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures influencing the island’s architecture, food, and customs.
Attractions
Penang has a diverse range of attractions, from historic landmarks to beautiful beaches. The following are some of the most popular attractions on the island:
- Georgetown: Penang’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Georgetown is known for its historic architecture, vibrant street art, and delicious food. The Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, the Khoo Kongsi clan house, and the famous Penang street art are all highlights.
- Penang Hill: Just outside of Georgetown, Penang Hill offers breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. A funicular train takes visitors to the top of the hill, where they can enjoy hiking trails, gardens, and panoramic views.
- Kek Lok Si Temple: This sprawling Buddhist temple is one of the largest in Southeast Asia, featuring multiple prayer halls, gardens, and pagodas. The temple is particularly beautiful at night, when it is lit up with colorful lights.
- Batu Ferringhi Beach: This popular beach is known for its clear waters and soft sand, making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also enjoy water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
Food
No visit to Penang would be complete without trying the local cuisine, which is known for its bold flavours and unique blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cuisines. Among the must-try dishes are:
- A stir-fried noodle dish with prawns, cockles, and bean sprouts is known as char kway teow.
- Laksa is a fiery noodle soup with fish, lemongrass, and tamarind.
- Nasi kandar: A rice dish accompanied by a variety of curries and side dishes.
- Roti canai: A type of flatbread served with curry sauce for dipping.
To summarise, Penang is a vibrant and fascinating destination with something for everyone. This beautiful island is sure to leave an impression, whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food.