Penang Tourism

History of Penang

Penang, a state in Malaysia, is located on the northwest coast of Peninsular Malaysia and joined by the Malacca Strait. Penang is categorised into two parts - Penang Island, where its capital George Town city is located, and Seberang Perai which was the former Province of Wellesley and located on the Malay Peninsula. Penang is the second smallest state in Malaysia in terms of land mass. On its north and east, it is bordered by Kedah and Perak on its south. One of the parts of Penang, Penang Island is connected to other parts of the state by two of the longest road bridges of Malaysia - Penang Bridge and Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge. It is also an interesting fact that the Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge is the longest bridge(overseas) in Southeast Asia.

Facts About Penang

Penang is popular as an exotic holiday destination among tourists worldwide. Once upon a time, Penang was also known as Pulau Pinang or the “Isle of the Betel Nut”. It is now included in the list of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 2008. Penang is blessed with virgin cultural sights and scenery. Fondly known as the Pearl of the Orient, Penang is dotted with soft sandy beaches. It also makes up for the food capital of Malaysia.

Although Penang is not very big in area, it is home to some of the most attractive places such as Tanjung Bungah, Penang Hill and Snake Temple. The picturesque Georgetown and the enchanting Tropical Spice Garden in Penang are some of the cities other major attractions. The Tropical Spice Garden is also the only spice garden in South East Asia. Penang’s flea markets are also quite popular among tourists.

Just like the other parts of Malaysia, Penang also enjoys a tropical rainforest climate. Some of the months in Penang are affected by a tropical monsoon climate also. Penang enjoys a dry and less humid climate during the months from December to February. The encompassing seas and current wind system of Penang is responsible for such type of climate. As Penang is located in close proximity to the island of Sumatra, the dust particles from transient forest fires are carried by the wind. This activity causes a phenomenon which is known as the Southeast Asian haze.

Culture of Penang

Penang is a wonderful confluence of eastern cultures in the entire world. It has been one of the long-standing connections between Asia and Europe and the Middle East. Penang is diverse, cosmopolitan and urban at the same time. The remarkable art scene and free-spirited carnivals define the atmosphere of Penang while the local enthusiasm is a product of the state’s history and kaleidoscope of cultures.