Penang Hill : The Tropical Paradise

In our previous issue iNPenang Vol.61, we have highlighted one of Penang’s natural gems – Penang Hill – a natural sanctuary and a cooler alternative to the humid tropical weather in the region.

In this edition, let us continue to introduce some the newest eco projects of Penang Hill.

The lush green forest and natural habitat surrounding the area is definitely more than meets the eye. Topping at 2,743ft above sea level, Penang Hill provides a retreat for visitors from the tropical heat and has been some of the local residents’ most favourite weekend pastimes. While Penang Hill continues to be home to some of the local bird and plant species, it has continued to see transformation; balancing the fact that it is a tourist destination and also a secret hideaway from the hustle and bustle of island life.

Dated as the oldest British hill station in Southeast Asia, the furnicular train stretches at 1.99km and takes only minutes to arrive at its furthest point of destination. Discover the exquisitely ornate and colourful sculptures at one of the oldest Hindu temple in Penang, which followed the Dravidian architectural style of South India. And on a clear day, sneak into the garden of Bellevue Penang Hill Hotel for one of the most spectacular views of George Town.

One of the newest face lift given to Penang Hill is the opening of The Habitat – a multi-layered and privately-run project initiated to promote wildlife and natural beauty of Penang Hill. It aims to provide world-class ecotourism promoting environmental consciousness and conservation awareness tourism, the first of its kind in Malaysia. It boasts a 1.6km long nature trail; a canopy walkway hanging at 15m at its highest point to savour the view of the 130 million year old virgin jungle canopy; a 360-degree tree top platform (still under construction); a Butterfly Bank; a Ginger Grove and various other gardens of multiple species.

Visit the hill before sunrise for a more mystical experience and watch as George Town wakes up to its splendor. Any trips up the hill made after sundown is also recommended however, watch out for a busier midday crowd as it can get really busy on weekends. The furnicular train services run from as early as 6.30am ending at 10.30pm with its last train departing from the hill top.

Images courtesy of The Habitat

Comments

Sunrise & Sunset Beaches of Penang

Penang beaches are divided into two large pools of secluded beaches without amenities and popular easy-to-access beaches that provide all the fun activities. Dotted along Batu Ferringhi’s coasts and within minutes walk from the beachfront resorts and holiday apartments are Tanjung Bungah and Batu Ferringhi that draw a steady crowd of tourists and locals throughout the year. With downtown Georgetown just 30-minute drive away, these locales are situated along the northern coastline of Penang. Here, you can choose between an iced-cold cocktail or activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, and windsurfing. For those who love a hike, it is all worthwhile to check out some of the beaches located within the circumference of Penang National Park. Monkey Beach, Pantai Kerachut and Teluk Kampi may well be some of the quietest beaches on the island. While Pantai Kerachut boasts as the most remote beach on the island, it also serves as a nesting ground for green turtles, hawksbill tur...

Discover Beautiful Penang: Balik Pulau (Town)

Balik Pulau means ‘‘the other side of the island’’, and is bordered by a long coastline on the western side and protected by high hills on three other sides. It is the main township on the southwest part of Penang Island, and is a self-sufficient agricultural district that is famous for its durian plantation, clove, coconut, nutmeg and fruits orchard. Getting there It takes about 2-3 hours to explore the entire Balik Pulau. No 401 & 401E from George Town Jetty / No 501 From Teluk Bahang For those who love nature may enjoy a 2-hour hike from Air Itam reservoir which bring you via the hills directly into Balik Pulau town. Attractions Jalan Besar Roman Catholic Church Spice & Fruit Farm Balik Pulau Laksa Shophouse No.100 Roundabout (Town’s landmark) Historical Schools –SMK St. George & SMK Sacred Heart Jalan Tun Sardon Wet Market & Sunday Market Kampung Sungai Pinang Old District Office Jalan Balik Pulau Silversmith Kampung T...

Never Enough of Little India

Welcome to the streets of George Town. Every issue, we bring you on a vicarious tour of the heritage trails of Penang highlighting its history, attractions and more! Made up of several lanes boxed in by Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling, Lebuh Gereja (Church Street), Lebuh Pantai (Beach Street) and Lebuh Chulia (Chulia Street), Little India is a mesmerizing maze of wonders. Back in colonial times, Lebuh Chulia was allotted to the Indian migrant settlers who took up a variety of professions as agricultural labourers, textile merchants, money-lenders, jewellers and spice traders. Despite being around for generations, this pre-war cocoon of culture only received its ethnic distinction some years back as recognition for its value as living history. A day will not be sufficient to cover the plethora of shops, restaurants, sights and sounds. Not to mention all the delicious aromas from the variety of Indian cuisines available here from the common mamak to the more exclusive...

iNPENANG

Search This Blog