Despite being a relatively tiny isle, Penang has myriad to offer, from incredibly sandy beaches, to a lively trendy cosmopolitan life, to unbelievable cultural and historical destinations, to fantastic shopping, to arguably many the best food in Malaysia. There are lots of attractions in Penang, with an array of temples, cultural and historical sites, and others.
Khoo Kongsi Temple
Known to be one of the finest and oldest Chinese clan house in the country, the Khoo Kongsi Temple is a spectacular one, with its ornate structure still well-preserved. The Khoo clan was formed in 1935, and the congretation house-temple was finished nine years later. The temple has two floors: The bottom one being the Khoo Kongsi Clan Museum, and the top housing the magnificent central hall, the ancestral hall, and the hall to the God of prosperity.
Cheong Fatt Tze (Blus Mansion)
Another important heritage site is the Cheong Fatt Tze mansion, a wonderfully well-preserved 18th and 19th-century Chinese structure. The mansion, which was once the home of an rich Nanyang industralist, was constructed surrounding the principles of Feng Shui, from 1896 to 1904.
Pinang Peranakan Mansion
The Pinang Peranakan Mansion is a perfect example of how an affluent Baba-Nyonya lived a century ago. The Babas and Nonyas, also known as the Peranakans, are one of Penang’s prominent cultures, with a unique mix of customs and traditions. The delightful mansion retains the outstanding historical architecture, together with countless antiques and artefacts.
Penang Hill (Bukit Bendera)
Offering a cool atmosphere, contrary to the warm weather in the island, Penang Hill is one of the most popular attractions in Penang. Not only do you have a cooling respite, but also breathtaking extraordinary views of the whole island from the top. Probably the best part about the hill is the enchanting funicular train which brings visitors to the top of the hill, which nestles a restaurant, a mosque, a church, a Hindu temple, and even a snake show.
Kek Lok Si Temple
Standing proudly on top of a hill in Ayer Itam, the Kek Lok Si Temple is one of the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. This enchanting temple, which was founded over a century ago, boasts gorgeous gardens and holy temples. There is the amazing Pagoda of 1000 Buddhas, the statues of The Four Heavenly Kings, the enormous bronze Kuan Yin statue on the hill, and other magnificent sights.
The array of sites in Penang will keep any guest entertained and in awe. The most spectacular of them all consist of the city’s cultural and historical gems, such as its temples and historical sites.
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