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 Chettinad. Best to visit at lunchtime when you can start your tour with a good meal. As evening descends, the area takes on a more festive air with coloured lights and loud Bollywood music.
For the uninitiated, begin your journey of discovery at Lebuh Queen (Queen Street) left off Lebuh Chulia if you’re coming from Penang Road. You will be greeted by the sight of the oldest Hindu temple in Malaysia, the Sri Mahamariamman Temple dating back to 1801.
Lebuh China (second right) as its name suggests used to be the heart of the Cantonese community and you can still see a number of clan associations, kongsi (clan houses) and temples here. On the eve of Thaipusam, the chariot procession carrying the statue of Lord Muruga makes it pilgrimage down this road on their way to the Water Fall temple.
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| Pinang Peranakan Mansion |
Lebuh Gereja named for the first church that was built there is better known for its affiliations with the secret societies of days gone by. Now it houses the famous Pinang Peranakan Mansion which offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of the rich Baba and Nyonya community a century ago.
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Beach Street also known as Dowling Street in the past was the most busiest district in the good old days where major banks were located to meet traders financial needs. The oldest name in traditional Chinese biscuits, Ghee Hiang is located at 95, Beach Street. One should visit this heritage shop with more than 160 years of history and pick up some souvenirs before leaving. One should also spend some time enjoying ‘BIG’ food items in Wonderfood Museum but strictly for your eyes only.
Shopping is a must in Little India which is chock-a-block with shops selling spices, sweetmeats, silverware and sarees to be bought here. Indian gold jewellery would also be a top purchase but do spend time browsing for different designs and settings.
Travel tip :
Getting to Little India is easy regardless of which direction you’re coming from as most busses pass by it. If you’re driving, the one way system on most lanes and limited parking may be a tad troublesome. Also bear in mind that most of the shops close at 10pm and it can get pretty quiet and deserted late at night.
Getting to Little India is easy regardless of which direction you’re coming from as most busses pass by it. If you’re driving, the one way system on most lanes and limited parking may be a tad troublesome. Also bear in mind that most of the shops close at 10pm and it can get pretty quiet and deserted late at night.
Eat & Drink
√ Ghee Hiang
√ Karaikudi Restaurant (Chettinad)
√ Thali NR Sweets
√ Woodlands (Vegetarian)
Do's
√ Pinang Peranakan Mansion
√ Wonderfood Museum
Sleep
Nearby Hotel :
√ Cocoa Mews
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